Accesories for my Tank

MarkM · 10-08-2006, 11:32 PM

Well, I am planning on going this week to get a tank. It will mosy likely be a 20 gallon, and definentaly freshwater. I was just wondering, what kind of pumps, filters... that kind of "stuff" do I need? I am planning on using live plants as well. I'm new to all this and want to get all of the accesories when I go. Thanks in advance!

Teddy · 10-09-2006, 12:07 AM

Whatever you do, please do not get colored gravel. I found myself commiting this horrid mistake, and regreted it later. Get the nice natural gravel the first time. The tank IMO looks nicer, and really gives it the "natural" look. Thats my 2 cents.

Hepcat021 · 10-09-2006, 12:09 AM

I would say you would need a 30 gallon rated filter or more. A 25 gallon rated or above heater. Gravel, you need it to be about a inch and half to 2 inches. Also a thermometer and a way to test your water, either strips or liquid tests. Dechlorinator for the water, to remove the chlorine from the water.
Also your are going to want to wait about a month and a half before adding fish. That is after you add water and either fish food to rot and create ammonia or just add pure ammonia. Then test your water to know when the time is right. You caould also go the fish cycling route, but i don't recommend it after going through it.
As for the light and plants you should get, I'll let someone more knowledgeable field those questions.

Good Luck,
Bill

MarkM · 10-09-2006, 07:43 AM

I am definentaly going to use natural looking gravel and cycle my tank. I just need to know about the other accesories I need.

Loman · 10-09-2006, 01:28 PM

MarkM,
Need is soemwhat dependent on what you want to do. I woud suggest you need an aquarium, gravel, lid and light, filter, heater and themoter

thewebpop · 10-09-2006, 04:26 PM

MarkM...
Glad you are seeking information first (I failed to do that). Here is a link I think will give you all the basics. You can then come back and ask questions as needed. You will find these forums and the people very helpful and fun to chat with. Good Luck, Later, Pop's
Go Here-->Basic equipment for freshwater aquariums - aquariumsite:FRESHWATER