Soo, I'm a big dummy. I assumed what was told to me was correct. I did not use my tools or knowledge to plan properly. I'm not the only person to do this I suspect.
This blunder started as a goodwill mission for my MIL. She needed a larger tank for her softball sized fantails. With a bit of internet shopping I found a good deal for 46 bow front with the stand. I told her "there is one condition, you gotta turnover your old 20 gallon". For years she was sure she had a 20 long. Man was I surprised after doing so much work to get this project moving.
I should've measured the tank before buying or doing anything. The rack I picked up is 35.7" wide perfect for a 30" long 20 gallon. Not to good for a almost 400lb standard 30 gallon. The 20 long would be perfect for a little community setup of nano fish. It would be only around 250lbs and the 40" plate glass table top (from an old set) is perfect for my little livingroom. Most of the wire rack that this is based of off are 24",36",and 48". There are other sizes but not locally for me. So adjusting to accommodate the 30 would mean spending more money.
I have been boiling my brain on what to do. I could easily by a 20 long for under $30. I also have sanded maple plywood in my storage. I could build table top and pop it atop the current table or just rip out a new table from scratch and keep with the same theme and configuration just larger (wife approval requested). Setting the tank on top would fit cosmetically under the TV but the bass from the speakers would not be so good on the fish. The 30 gallon can hold a larger school of fish but will cost more to fully setup. Another thought is my buddy that has thought about getting into fish keeping. Just show up and setup in his mancave.
Long story short, don't assume. I'll up date if I get executive approval from the boss.
This blunder started as a goodwill mission for my MIL. She needed a larger tank for her softball sized fantails. With a bit of internet shopping I found a good deal for 46 bow front with the stand. I told her "there is one condition, you gotta turnover your old 20 gallon". For years she was sure she had a 20 long. Man was I surprised after doing so much work to get this project moving.
I should've measured the tank before buying or doing anything. The rack I picked up is 35.7" wide perfect for a 30" long 20 gallon. Not to good for a almost 400lb standard 30 gallon. The 20 long would be perfect for a little community setup of nano fish. It would be only around 250lbs and the 40" plate glass table top (from an old set) is perfect for my little livingroom. Most of the wire rack that this is based of off are 24",36",and 48". There are other sizes but not locally for me. So adjusting to accommodate the 30 would mean spending more money.
I have been boiling my brain on what to do. I could easily by a 20 long for under $30. I also have sanded maple plywood in my storage. I could build table top and pop it atop the current table or just rip out a new table from scratch and keep with the same theme and configuration just larger (wife approval requested). Setting the tank on top would fit cosmetically under the TV but the bass from the speakers would not be so good on the fish. The 30 gallon can hold a larger school of fish but will cost more to fully setup. Another thought is my buddy that has thought about getting into fish keeping. Just show up and setup in his mancave.
Long story short, don't assume. I'll up date if I get executive approval from the boss.
