Vision 260

[phoebepants]

Hi

I'm looking for some advice.

We currently have a vision 260 stood empty and me and my other half are debating what to put in it. I would really like some fancys but OH is not too keen. We last used the tank about two years ago when we had a marine tank set up.

Could someone give us some info about keeping fancies - stocking levels, decor, etc just as a starting point. if we are going to get fancies, i want to do it properly and also need some info in order to convince OH!

Many Thanks in advance

Michelle

 

[aquila]

260 litres? Perfect for a collection of fancy goldfish.

When fully grown three or four would be ideal, perhaps five max if you're diligent with the water changes. Three will make your life that much easier.

Decor is all about the hardscape with goldfish as they will eat even the toughest coldwater plants, and those few that they don't eat (crinium thanium being the only one I've found) they uproot continually anyway and make a mess. Large pieces of slate or similar can be stacked to create a simple backdrop for the fish (buy rocks from garden centres rather than an LFS, they are always cheaper). Dark gravel and rock enhances their colours much better than pale shades.

Your biggest consideration will be filtration; to achieve 10x water turnover on a tank like that is to be talking big league external canisters. Two externals are ideal as these are fish that create a lot of physical detritus and waste and it's useful to be able to really clean out the filters in alternating months as otherwise they quickly clog.

For a large display tank you'll want some good fish, not the usual inbred rubbish from Pets at Home or similar. They are surprisingly hard to get in this country but I would highly recommend contacting local fishkeeping societies and any fancy goldfish societies in your area who can put you in touch with a breeder. Alternatively there are some mail order companies who now specialise in importing good quality goldfish.

Hope this helps somewhat, fire away with any more questions.