First planted tank... Questions!

[TomStav]

I am setting up a 10G tank and need some advice. The tank is going to be home to two small lion head goldfish, and so will be kept at room temp around 70 degrees.

I have yet to buy a light and would like to put a clamp style light as I'm keeping the tank topless.

I have an inch or so of organic potting soil that I will be covering with an inch of large grain sand.

I just have no idea what types of plants would suit this tank best and would be very grateful for any advice or tips!

Thanks!

 

[Homedog98]

Umm... Hate to break it to you... But goldfish need 20 gallon tanks. 1. They grow too big, and 2. They have a HUGE bioload. Once your done fishless cycling, I'd go with a school of neon tetras and/or a Betta. You need more soil. 2.5 to 3 inches deep is required for plants.

 

[mfdrookie516]

I do agree that a 10g tank is not appropriate for goldfish. Goldfish are also known to eat most plants, with the exception of a few. Generally, goldfish and lush planted tanks don't go together

 

[TomStav]

Hi thanks for the reply. I already have the goldfish in another tank and as they are still small I only plan on having them in here for a year or so and then I will get a larger tank to accommodate their growth. I have a 55G waiting for them. I will add more soil (luckily I haven't added the sand yet). Are their any plants that they wouldn't destroy? I don't mind them munching on them somewhat.

 

[TomStav]

Also I plan on a fish less cycle and have a filter that turns over the 10G every 15 minutes and may add a canister filter in addition once I get it running.

 

[BigJim]

I would also advise against even starting the goldfish out in a 10g. Too often the best-laid plans to upgrade tanks later fall through.

Anubias, java ferns, java moss, and some swords are usually safe from herbivorous fish.

I'm hoping the filter data is a misprint. A 4x turnover rate isn't good for much, especially on an overstocked 10g with particularly messy fish. If you're dead set on keeping these fish in this tank, aim for an 8x - 10x turnover rate.

 

[TomStav]

I would also advise against even starting the goldfish out in a 10g. Too often the best-laid plans to upgrade tanks later fall through.

Anubias, java ferns, java moss, and some swords are usually safe from herbivorous fish.

I'm hoping the filter data is a misprint. A 4x turnover rate isn't good for much, especially on an overstocked 10g with particularly messy fish. If you're dead set on keeping these fish in this tank, aim for an 8x - 10x turnover rate.

Hi it is a mistake the marineland hob filter is rated at 100G/ hr.. 10x turnover rate. My mistake.

My only problem is that these are my girlfriends goldfish and I am constantly trying to get them a larger tank, but as we have a 75G sw and 30G tropical fw in a small apartment, my girlfriend is not so enthusiastic about the idea! But I have an empty 55G and we are moving to a larger place within 8 months and WILL move them to a larger tank then.

I think for the time being I will leave the tank as a bear bottom with a couple of rocks to give them the most possible room.

I appreciate your advice and understand that 10G is not enough but will have to suffice for a little while.

Thanks to all!

 

[BigJim]

I'm glad to hear that you've at least got a future tank in your possession. I've seen too many people start with things like bala sharks in their 10g with the intent to upgrade to a "huge tank" in the future.

 

[Homedog98]

I'm glad to hear that you've at least got a future tank in your possession. I've seen too many people start with things like bala sharks in their 10g with the intent to upgrade to a "huge tank" in the future.

Tell me about it... My first mistake. You remember... Rainbow shark? Ya... Fun times... Lots of PWC's.