Need to build an Arowana tank in my basement

[Bryan Crownover]

I have a baby Silver Aro of about 3 to 4 inches long and I want to get a solid plan out and begin stockpiling materials and gradually building to move him in when he grows more on me. I have plenty of space in the basement and I am thinking of doing it plywood and acrylic. Looking at my basement and thinking of arowana sizes and the potential for tankmates, I want to do dimensions of 96x40x30 to 120x40x36. Is the plywood a good idea or should I go 100% acrylic? I will also be building my own stand. I would appreciate any tips or material suggestions, I'm looking to learn and do it right the first time which is why I'm here.

 

[Hendre]

Plywood is extremely economical compared to acrylic as far as I know and would probably be easier to move if needed. On the other hand acrylic can last an extremely long time

Hope this helps

 

[jsodwi]

Start searching craigslist for some used acrylic tanks. They can easily be repaired if needed. Try to go with at least a 36" wide.

 

[Bryan Crownover]

Start searching craigslist for some used acrylic tanks. They can easily be repaired if needed. Try to go with at least a 36" wide.

I've been searching craigslist every week or so. I met a guy at a fish store who has a 8' long and 30" wide acrylic he'll sell me for 700 which I'll probably do but like you said I want to go 36 or more wide.

 

[Fish Tank Travis]

I've been searching craigslist every week or so. I met a guy at a fish store who has a 8' long and 30" wide acrylic he'll sell me for 700 which I'll probably do but like you said I want to go 36 or more wide.

I would snatch that for sure. That should last your aro for years, at least. Otherwise, $700 on that size tank is a great price.

 

[Niners4952]

I bulit my 600 plywood 8' X 4' X 32" tall for about $800 with 1/2" glass

 

[Bryan Crownover]

I bulit my 600 plywood 8' X 4' X 32" tall for about $800 with 1/2" glass

Just one viewing panel in the front and the rest plywood?

 

[Niners4952]

Just one viewing panel in the front and the rest plywood?

yes if you search my threads I posted some details and pics. I didn't do a tank build thread but I will in a couple months when my tank has been running for 1 year