Getting a 5 ft - but which type? Need advice.

[dennisks]

Hi,

I plan to get a 5 x 2.5 x 2.5 tank but don't know which type is the best and esay to maintain. There are IOS, with Sump, plain 5 ft, etc. but which is better? I intend to keep Frontosa and Discus only.

I prefer one that is easy to maintain and only need a pump to save electricity $ and personal time. So far, I've used IOS and plain 5 ft with canister. Have not tried the rest.

Any advices from the expert here is appreciated. I intend to get 2 5ft and the decision must be made correctly.

Thanks in advance,

Den

[bryan]

I'd go with a EOS tank if I were to pack it with livestock. Sump filters have bigger capacity and are easy to maintain.

By the way, Discus and Frontosa have different water requirements. Its either one or the other.

[eddyq]

To keep fishes, I think an overflow system with a sump below. Like bryan mentioned a EOS, maintainace usually done at the sump. Just a return pump is needed, I would like one myself.

[bossteck]

Hi,

Agree that EOS is a good idea.

BUT, 2.5 ft height of the tank, plus a decent sump of suitable height, and enought elbow space built in, would very likely mean that you will need a step ladder to reach the front bottom of the tank. And if you're putting your tank against a wall, the 2.5 ft width would probably mean that you won't be able to reach the far bottom of the tank unless you have very long arms. So be mentally prepared for this.

Although I am have not kept discus before, I know most discus keeper often do large percentage water changes frequently. Hence most serious home breeders often keep their discus in 3 (or at most 4ft) tanks.

Changing water for a 5x2.5 tank every few days would take a very long time and probably burn a hole in your pocket!

Hey, remember to take some photos and post them up here after you have set up your tank ok?

[Madmax]

I got a plain 5x2x2 tank with 2 Eheim canisters (filled with 2.3 of kg biohome) and 1x9W UV. For me, this is best as should 1 filter breakdown or requires servicing, the other is still running (backup!). Water is crystal clear and my fishes (arowana & flying phoenix) never gotten sick before.

As far as tank size is concerned, I am medium built and I can't reach the far bottom end even when I am standing on a chair! If you are going to do a planted tank, you better have very long arms.

[grey_fox]

If you intend to keep discus & frontosas, then a good choice would be EOS, water quality can be maintained better with that form of filtration since their diet is pretty high in the protein department.