I will use this thread to document my journey of my first tank set up. I decided to start with a 50+ gallon lightly planted tank and I’m open to stocking options. I'll try to be as financially responsible as possible, searching for deals on pre-owned equipment on Craigslist if possible. I set an initial budget of $500 and hope to stick with it. I'll document the cost of everything I purchased in case there are other new hobbyists looking for an idea of what to expect budget wise.
I invite you to join me along for the ride. Your advice, ideas, guidance, suggestions and constructive criticism will be greatly appreciated!!
Over the past week, I've been slowly procuring equipment.
Rummaging through my parent's basement, I found the following items from the 80s & 90s. Not sure if any of these still work though.
20 gal tank (free):
HOB filter (free):
Pumps/powerheads (sponge filter???) (free):
Holy fish poop! NOT made in China
Heaters – two 200W and one 100W (free):
20 gal tank with equipment above:
I also purchased newer equipment as well.
Penn Plax Cascade 1000 Canister filter ($79 Amazon):
API Freshwater Aquarium Master Test Kit ($23 PetSmart):
Running Total: $102
Remaining Budget: $398
I invite you to join me along for the ride. Your advice, ideas, guidance, suggestions and constructive criticism will be greatly appreciated!!
Over the past week, I've been slowly procuring equipment.
Rummaging through my parent's basement, I found the following items from the 80s & 90s. Not sure if any of these still work though.
20 gal tank (free):
HOB filter (free):
Pumps/powerheads (sponge filter???) (free):
Holy fish poop! NOT made in China
Heaters – two 200W and one 100W (free):
20 gal tank with equipment above:
I also purchased newer equipment as well.
Penn Plax Cascade 1000 Canister filter ($79 Amazon):
API Freshwater Aquarium Master Test Kit ($23 PetSmart):
Running Total: $102
Remaining Budget: $398