Starting An Aquarium With Little Money

[Bunkryan]

So I was going to start a new aquarium within the next few months. I have a 20 gallon long tank and a stand to put it on, I have gravel....and that's about it. I need a hood, lights, a cheap but reliable and efficient filter, an aeration system if it's not included with the filter and plants/decorations. I want to put in a few Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlids and a few other dwarf cichlids with them. The problem is that I don't have very much money and I at least need a filter and light to start the cycling.....any suggestions on cheap equipment?

 

[Tolak]

Look for an auction; http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?/forum/143-local-aquarium-societies-and-clubs/

They are usually run by clubs, you can get some real good deals towards the end.

 

[OldMan47]

A good option that few people seem to consider these days is air powered filters. Almost any sponge filter can be air powered and the old fashioned box filters still work well although they are out of style these days. At auctions, things like box filters can be had fo almost nothing. I bought 6 as a group for just a dollar or two at my last auction. A 20 long can be lit by a single tube 2 foot long fluorescent which you might find at an auction or it can be built using a standard light fixture and a bit of wood for the decorative structure.

Side note: I will probably see Tolak at the CAFE auction this weekend.

 

[Bunkryan]

A good option that few people seem to consider these days is air powered filters. Almost any sponge filter can be air powered and the old fashioned box filters still work well although they are out of style these days. At auctions, things like box filters can be had fo almost nothing. I bought 6 as a group for just a dollar or two at my last auction. A 20 long can be lit by a single tube 2 foot long fluorescent which you might find at an auction or it can be built using a standard light fixture and a bit of wood for the decorative structure.

Side note: I will probably see Tolak at the CAFE auction this weekend.

The box filter sounds like a really good idea, thanks. One question, do they have replaceable cartridges, and if so how long do they usually last?

 

[Tolak]

Side note: I will probably see Tolak at the CAFE auction this weekend.

I'll be there, road conditions permitting. Box & sponge filters are the way to go, I'll be looking for some boxes suitable for 15 longs, already have the sponges.

 

[OldMan47]

A box filter is just that. It is a plastic box that you fill with whatever you like and set up the air to bubble out the top which promotes water flow. We even have people DIY their own box filters from things like old plastic drink bottles but why bother when a basic box filter is so cheap?