A 40gl breeder is a great size for a starting tank.
The first thing we need you to do is do a little bit of research on what you want to do for plants. In general, there are 3 lighting intensities for plants with generally different needs in each category.
Low light: Heavily restricts the types of plants you can grow and how fast they will grow. However, it requires far less maintenance than medium or high light as well as costing less. Starting cost should be around $20 - $50 for a basic light.
Medium light: Opens up a ton of options. Algae can be an issue. Will likely need daily fertilizers and at least liquid carbon pressurized co2 would be beneficial. More expensive due to needing a more powerful light. Youre looking at a $200 range for lights and ferts if youre not getting pressurized co2.
High light: You can grow pretty much everything at this point. Will absolutely require daily fertilizers and will most likely need pressurized co2. It can be done without pressurized co2 but instead you will use large amounts of liquid carbon. Algae issues are problematic. Price can range around $500 if youre getting pressurized co2.
Prices are all
highly variable depending on just about everything. They also dont count filters or heaters.
Filters: They arent as big a deal as people make them out to be. Generally, the more expensive they are the quieter they will be. Personally, i use aqua clears which for that size tank should run around $50. Some people swear by canisters, which while neat are absolutely not necessary.
Fish: head over to
www.liveaquaria.com and pick out a fish or 2 you like. We can work a stocking list around that. Just no african cichlids as they demolish plants.