Temporary Tank Filtration Ideas?

[Dionysus]

I recently bought a Datnoid, which they're keeping for me until I can get one of my tanks setup. I have a 120g with a 15" gar and a bichir, which has a wet/dry filtration setup. The Datnoid i found is about 5" and would rather not put him in with the bigger guys yet, but had to buy him since he's the biggest Dat ive found locally in 2 years of searching. I an aquarium freak, so I have a bunch of old empty tanks: 55g glass (stand and canopy), 55g acrylic (originally pet store feeder tank), a 38g, and a few smaller ones.
I thought I could but the Datnoid in a 55g until he grows a little larger, just to be safe (and the store said he's been growing quik for a Dat) and thought I could come up with a temp system with all the old filters Ive had, but found I actually don't have much for actual filters. I have alot of pumps and powerheads, and accessories, but only a small hang on back about 6" wide filter, which is definitely to small for a 55g. I threw all my undergravel trays aways thinking I'd never go that route again. I do have an old hang-on Magnum 250 but its missing the filters for the canister.
Any Ideas of what would work for a temp setup that would still provide adequate filtration?

 

[Pharaoh]

Just pick up a spong filter and hook it up to an air pump. It will do the trick. Sponge filters are only about $5.

http://www.jehmco.com/html/hydro-sponge_filters.html

 

[all_or_nothin]

Quick for a datnoid isnt all that quickbut a grow out tank is a good idea

 

[Dionysus]

Quick for a datnoid isnt all that quickbut a grow out tank is a good idea

I remember seeing this Datniod before they change stores and it was tiny 1.5in or so, didn't even think about buying it. It's pushing 5in now and even the owner of the store, who's become quite attached to the fish, said it's been the fastest growing Dat he's had. Its really hardy and they say it eats like a pig. It still may be a while before he can meet the gar though. They had a pair of spotted gar about 5" in with the Datnoid, and was almost thinking of trading in my gar. I like my gar, but damn, it makes finding a tank a pain in the ass.

 

[Dionysus]

Just pick up a spong filter and hook it up to an air pump. It will do the trick. Sponge filters are only about $5.

http://www.jehmco.com/html/hydro-sponge_filters.html

Oh, by the way, I do have a that same thing. Used it when keeping the Koi inside during winter. Just didn't know if it would be adequate for a Datnoid. Anyone know how picky they are to water quality (ph, nitrates/ites, etc.)?

 

[Deaths Sting]

powerheads, aerators and water changes = best temporary filtration

 

[CHOMPERS]

I just took this off of one of my tanks. I used floss media from another system to hold over one of my tanks until its filter cycled. You can do the same with any container. Pack it full of any media that you can borrow from your other tanks. Don't over look dirty filter pads as bio-media (don't clean them). The air lift tube doesn't have to be clear or even round. It can be what ever you can scrounge up. It will hold over your fish until a more suitable filter is up and running.

 

[Deaths Sting]

looks pretty....

 

[Nic]

just put the dat in with the gar and bichir....

 

[Dionysus]

Actually, I just have a gar now. I just found my bichir on the basement floor. Looks like he got out a while ago, cause he was dry/done for. I have a well sealed tank, but think he might have gotten out through my overflow box. Had him for 6 years and he just escapes now. Damn. Anyways, I'm afraid of, and almost know, my gar will start hunting the Datniod down as soon as he enters the tank. He's pretty predatorial towards anything. I'm almost think of getting rid of him, but its a hard choice since i've had him for 8yrs. I would just want him to go to a good home (another big tank). Fear some kid would be amazed and have to have it for his 20 gallon tank.