Wanting A Small Tank With Snails/shrimp?

[Owl]

Hey

I've never kept fish before, not even as a child, but I've recently been thinking I'd really like a small "tank" centerpiece on my bedside table. I preferably want it to be attractive, with live plants, and I also want some sort of live creature(s) in there.

Given the size I'm thinking in my head I'm pretty sure I won't be able to keep fish in there. I'm not sure how accurate this is but a friend once told me you can't keep any fish in anything less than 50 litres, whereas I'm definitely thinking under 5.

Now I know nothing at all about snails or shrimp, but I'm wondering if either/both would be suitable? And if so, what type(s), what would their minimum tank size be, and any links to caresheets would be helpful.

Also, are their any interesting tanks out there which won't break the bank, pre-made or improvised? I like the look of this Absolut tank (though it seems far too small for that fish.....) but I've never seen a vodka bottle that big, and I'm not sure how practical it would be with the thin neck!

Owl x

 

[the_lock_man]

Your friend was wrong about the 50l thing, there are plenty of fish suitable for nano tanks such as these - and we have a whole section of the forum dedicated to such tanks.
 
You are right, however, about no fish in a 5l tank, but snails and shrimp are perfect for these type of things. Cherry Shrimp, Crystal Red Shrimp, Blue Pearl Shrimp would look great in a small planted tank.

 

[Megalodon]

i dont know how much 50 liters is. but if youre interesested in nano tank, i know people keep a few kinds of fish in there...like galaxy rasboras.

 

[fluttermoth]

The AquaNano range are very nice. The smallest is 12l, and there are also a 22l and a 55l version.

I have the 55l next to my bed, and I do use it as bedside light 

.
 
Please don't consider vodka bottles/converted blenders/USB tanks if you're planning on anything other than plants. They're gimmicks only, and not suitable for keeping any livestock happy or healthy!