44g tank?

lenalover

I am thinking of buying a 44g pentagon corner tank that is for sale used. It comes with a stand, hood/lights, sand, heater, plants and driftwood. All for $80!

I don't really have a use for a 44g tank, but it's such a good deal that I will have to figure out a use :P

I'm thinking of what I would stock it with, as I have never had a tank larger than 20g, so don't know what kind of fish do well in a 44g size.

I LOVE corydoras fish, and I also love guppies. But, I've never changed the kind of fish I have, always mainly guppies and platies.

I have a young, Blue Gourami in my 20g, that I am thinking he would love to be in the 44g, especially when he gets bigger.

How many corydoras could live happily in a 44g pentagon tank?
Are there any other peaceful, community fish that are colorful, besides guppies/gouramis?

Thanks for any suggestions :]

sik80

Do you know your local water parameter - pH and hardness? If we know this people can advise better as some fish will do better in some conditions than others.

Byron

Agree with sik80, we need that water info. Also, what is the surface area of the substrate? This is the issue for substrate fish like corys.

I certainly agree, the Blue Gourami should go into this tank when it's ready. But given its natural territoriality and aggressiveness, tankmates wil have to be carefully chosen. Click on the shaded name to see the profile for more info on this species.

Byron.

lenalover

I tested the pH, and it was the right level for guppies.. I believe it was 7.4?
And, how do you test hardness?

My Blue Gourami gets along awesome with my guppies and corys, so I was thinking to put guppies in the large tank, but I will also check out the list to see other fish :]

Byron

You can find the hardness from your water supply folks; many have a website with water data posted. It is always good to know this, as hardness in the aquarium will not significantly change from the tap water hardness unless something is done to affect it. Whereas pH can fluctuate, but the amount depends upon the hardness.

lenalover

^^ Okay, thanks. Do you think the pool supply shop can test fish water? We take in our pool water to get tested through them, and my mom is going there today.

Byron

Possibly. But you would get a better number for hardness from the water supply people, check if they have a website.

trukgirl

I have a 44g corner pentagon tank that I got used off craigslist as well. I paid $150 for it but it came with a Rena filstar canister, the hood, light, and stand, and a good protein skimmer (for saltwater). Just make sure when you pick it up to give it a good inspection!

Another way to test your water, is to use one of these and just test the water right out of your faucet. Its how I make sure my RO/DI water filter is running correctly. (for saltwater)
Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Aquarian Freshwater GH & KH Test Kit

Also not sure where you are located but a lot of local pet stores will test your water for free.