Newbie 20 gallon extra high

[Angelopoulos59]

Well, my roommate got a reef tank, and not to be outdone I decided to do a planted tank
I went with a 20 gallon extra high
A 48 watt t5 high output fixture (nova extreme)
Fluorite as my substrate

Overall for it being only the 3rd day I've had it I feel like its turning out well.... Also I really am enjoying myself, its nice to have something that grows and changes over time as a result of your care!

Oh and any advice or criticism would be great!




And a slightly closer view

 

[mike47517]

Once the tank cycles are you going to get any fish?

 

[Angelopoulos59]

Once the tank cycles are you going to get any fish?

I have one guy in there right now, a rainbow shark. I bought 1.5 ounces of dirty water and put that in, let it run for 2 days and had the store test my water and it turned out to be right on.
I definitely plan on getting more fish, I really want a High Fin Swordtail (gonna probably wait at least 2 months to make sure my water is doing well though) and I was considering a twin tailed betta (though I dont know if they're too aggressive or not).
I'm also going to get some blue crays and some cherry shrimps for color.

Any suggestions on fish or inverts?

 

[mike47517]

Oh got any pics of the shark? I wouldnt suggest the blue cray the floor place is to small. The only suggestion i would give is some barbs. They are a semi aggresive fish so they would do good with your semi aggressive shark.

 

[mike47517]

Look at this sight they sell fish, but they also tell alot of info about the fish. Oh and they have a huge selection! www.liveaquaria.com

 

[Angelopoulos59]

Ya, I've been browsing liveaquarium like mad, here's a few pics of my shark!

 

[mike47517]

Looks good. His fins are very bold.

 

[Angelopoulos59]

Ya, he's a cool little guy, I'm considering just getting a 20 gallon standard tank so i have some more length for aqua scaping... not sure though.

 

[victor.m]

Have to say it's a very nice tank Congrats on your hard work! I'm sure it will shape up nicely.

 

[Angelopoulos59]

Have to say it's a very nice tank Congrats on your hard work! I'm sure it will shape up nicely.

Well considering you're my roommate and all =p

 

[mike47517]

I personanly like the high tank over a long one.

 

[MrMalta]

I just wanted to say I never liked high tanks because of how far you have to put your hand down, it's just not comfortable for working - I have a 20 High .. hate it, trying to sell it.

But your doing a nice job. The shark looks great!

 

[brutus]

yes.. you did a nice job looks nice

 

[Angelopoulos59]

Thanks for all the compliments! I went to the store today and bought a 20 gallon standard tank, already transferred everything over and have it going, fish are doing great, I added a sword tail to the family, ill post some more pics tomorrow when the water clears up!