looking into a 65g... Feedback on this setup/glass or acrylic?

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
C

Crazed Demasoni

Feeder Fish
MFK Member
May 19, 2010
188
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0
Massachusetts
I found a 65g with stand on craigslist for $100, and it got me thinking. I love the form factor (36 7/8 x 19 x 24 5/8 high), and want to do a ram tank (I think). I know the height is going to suck for planting, but it's either this, a 40g br, or a 50g. I'd love the extra space of the 65, and have the following:

AC110 HOB
Marineland Stealth 250w heater (worked fine so far)

I'm looking to spend about $100 on a light, so I like this
http://www.directaquarium.com/Current-USA-2X39W-36-in-p/10473.htm
but it's 78w total.

I'm looking to do rams/some plants/rcs and crs and then some sort of schooling fish (because everyone loves neon tetras)

I know I may need to add another heater too, but any feedback on this?

I think the AC110 should be able to handle the bio load at least initially, and it's already been up and running for a year.

My biggest concern is the glass vs acrylic argument... I'm not worried about scratching, so it seems like the weight difference could push me toward waiting for an acrylic. Also, I'm away until next week, so I'll probably need to wait for another listing anyway.
 
the lighting unit will be fine. the only thing with the current USA ones is that they do have a fan which people say is noisey.

I have a similar 78w unit from AquaticLife that has no fan that is really good.

here is a shot of my 65 tall to give you an idea of what 78w of T5 lighting looks like (I use Hagen Powerglo T5s):

a word of warning though: even 78w of T5 HO light is a lot. plant it very densely or you will battle algae. I did until my plants grew in properly. now its not so bad.

IMG_0568.JPG
 
Thanks guys.

I probably will end up with glass, it's just that I'm living in my apartment for ~4-6 months, then somewhat likely to be relocating. I'm just going to wait for another tank to become available, then hop on it. If I have an algae issue I'll add some ottos or a pleco depending on where it is (plants vs glass). I really love the form factor though, as you can be creative but it still doesn't take up that much space.
 
ps, I'll look into that lighting. I'm not too worried about noise, just because I don't expect the lights being on when I'm trying to sleep (will be in a bedroom)
 
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