Custom 33 gallon tank

[AndrewH]

Well I went an picked up my tank today and man am I happy with it!!!

Base price was $40 and I added 2 holes at $5 each and he also made me an overflow box when I got there for free (all glass). We chatted for a while and then he handed me a full tube of silicone to install the overflow box. The guy really knows his stuff and I couldn't be happier with the tank. He's a real nice and friendly person, and I would highly recommend you get a quote from him before buying your next tank.

I just checked all the dimensions and this thing is dead on everywhere. All the pieces are exactly the same size where they're supposed to be and the overalls are EXACT!!! He's good. All the edges are smooth and the silicone looks great (as apposed to my last silicone mess which looked like my 3 year old did it).

To the pictures... :D

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0038.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0039.jpg
(The black lines show were the overflow goes if I decide to install it)


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0040.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0041.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0042.jpg]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0043.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0044.jpg

[Haiven]

That's a beauty at a great price!

[AndrewH]

I agree :D :brandy:

[xtc]

did he by chance give you a spare piece of glass for me?...

[lellison]

Looks like you got a good deal. Very nice looking tank. What are you planning to do with it? You may have posted that somewhere else, but I have been away for a while.

[biggin]

Looks great.

[AndrewH]

did he by chance give you a spare piece of glass for me?...

No, what size was it supposed to be? I'll call him before I head that way tonight and see if I can't stop by and get it for you.

Looks like you got a good deal. Very nice looking tank. What are you planning to do with it? You may have posted that somewhere else, but I have been away for a while.

:D well, I plan to have it heavily planted with CO2 and an automatic water change system.

The main thing is to breed my Red Cherry Shrimp ;). I just had a big batch born, so I needed to move them to a larger home. I might even throw in some guppies or anything else I can find that won't/can't eat the adult RCS. Someone suggested dwarf gouramis which I already have a couple of males.

I'm sure as with everyone's tanks, it'll always be a work in progress.

[kewlkatdady]

Man this guy's gonna get me in trouble...

Tank looks great...

Andrew...I love the fact that you made that comment about the spec being EXACT. That impresses me...that says the takes pride in his work.

[AndrewH]

Man this guy's gonna get me in trouble...

Tank looks great...

Andrew...I love the fact that you made that comment about the spec being EXACT. That impresses me...that says the takes pride in his work.

I know, I'm already thinking about getting a tank for the office :D!!

I was blown away by how exact it actually is. I told him I wanted a 33 gallon tank. He wasn't familar with the dimensions, so I told him it's 48" long by 12" to 13". I told him I would rather have it a little deeper than wide. When I put my tape measure on it, it is exactly 48" long, not even a hair over! I measured the hight, dead on 13". Then I measured the width, 12.25" all the way down the length. I mean this thing is EXACTLLY what I told him I wanted. When you do the calculations for those measurements, you get 33.0909090909 gallons. That's as close to 33 gallons as you can get!

[bra8ndy8]

WOW it looks a lot bigger!!! GREAT looking tank!

[kewlkatdady]

Andrew are those interior dimensions or exterior dimensions?

[AndrewH]

Sorry, exterior dims, which I'm glad or it wouldn't have fit on my stand ;).

But he used 1/4" glass, not the smaller, thinner, weaker stuff.

[AndrewH]

WOW it looks a lot bigger!!! GREAT looking tank!

I agree. Not having any trim on the tank makes it so that you can see more glass. The pre-made, trimmed tanks don't look too bad, but I realy love this trimless tank.

[AndrewH]

Well I ordered my bulkheads and I'm working on getting a canister filter.

Bulkhead Kit (http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+10090+4036&pcatid=4036) (I got the clear ones, kinna to keep with the "clear/trimless" theme)

http://a1272.g.akamai.net/7/1272/1121/20051201202042/www.drsfostersmith.com/images/Categoryimages/normal/p_18983_32771i.jpg

[fatfutures]

I really need to call this guy and order up a 90. Who wants to tutor me on what I need to order? LOL (I'm not joking)

[fatfutures]

oh yeah...and, how do you put a TOP on this thing????

[supersmirky]

Who is it and what's his #?? That's a great deal and an excellent job!

[AndrewH]

Adam at 817-992-0779

I think his limit is 75 gallons (because of the trimless feature and glass thickness), but it never hurts to ask :D

[AndrewH]

I really need to call this guy and order up a 90. Who wants to tutor me on what I need to order? LOL (I'm not joking)

You'd just need to tell him you want a standard 90 gallon tank (48" x 18" x 24" are the nomanal dimensions, I'm not 100% on the exact dims). He keeps lizards, so knows about tanks.

oh yeah...and, how do you put a TOP on this thing????

Putting a top on is not a problem. Simple glass cubes in the corners flush with the center brace and the top would be completely flush (he'd probably have to make a custom top, but you're probably looking at $10-$20)

I did check, and the glass tops for my 55 fit fine.

[greeneyed]

Wonder if he would do a 90 if you supplied the trim?
Glasscages sells trim for up to a 90 if I remember right.???

[AndrewH]

I dunno, he had a 125 gallon sitting at his house that he built that had brass shower door trim on it that looked sweet. But that tank was for retiles, not gonna hold water.

He might have options, but it might not be as cost effective.

[fatfutures]

*sigh* I hope he can do a 90! I do believe it was YOU, Andrew, that sold me on the idea in the first place!

[AndrewH]

Glasscages sells trim for up to a 90 if I remember right.???

GlassCages frames (http://www.glasscages.com/?sAction=ViewCat&lCatID=43)

[AndrewH]

*sigh* I hope he can do a 90! I do believe it was YOU, Andrew, that sold me on the idea in the first place!

:whistle:
I dunno what you're talkin' about... j/k

See what he says about having a 90 gallon frame kit. He might be able to do it.

[AndrewH]

GlassCages frames (http://www.glasscages.com/?sAction=ViewCat&lCatID=43)

:twitch:
:thumbdown:

Tank frames are black.
Minimum order is $15.00 - Minimum S&H via UPS is $15.00
Large quantites can be shipped by common carrier. Call for quote.
:thumbdown:

[fatfutures]

But, I really don't want the frame! Dangit!

I'll give him a call tomorrow.

[AndrewH]

OIC....

Here's a 90 rimless from GlassCages ($250)

http://www.glasscages.com/gc2/prodpics/cp_Farrar-90Rimless.jpg

[fatfutures]

Yeah, I was just looking at that... looks like a tall.

Sooooooooooooo pretty.

I'll just have to keep my fingers crossed that Adam can do it.

[AndrewH]

Yeah, same dims as mine (but mine has trim) @ 48" x 18" x 25"

[biggin]

You could always go the glasscages route they are pretty cheap as well.

[fatfutures]

OK... waiting for Adam to call me back with a price for my ODD tank. But, I did find out that he really has no limits on size, he's currently working on a 200!

YEAH!

I decided to go with a non-traditional footprint. My stand will be an uber solid office credenza that we own. So... size will be 58.5 long x 16 deep x 25 tall.

[greeneyed]

200!! Wow, wonder if he is using any type of bracing on it? Hmmm, dang it!! I think I know where my Income tax return will be going!?!?

[supersmirky]

That's sweet.. Wonder what the price runs on that bad boy

[xtc]

He does bracing depending on the size. He's got it down pretty solid.

I plan on having him make me another custom tank soon...:rolleye0012:

[fatfutures]

Well SHIT!!!

Uhhhh...due to the size we go with 3/8" glass. Final price.... $700! I know for the thickness of the glass it's still a good price. But, my expectations were base on the prices other people had gotten for smaller tanks.

Burst my bubble all to hell!

Hmmm, what else to I have around here that I can sell on Ebay????

[xtc]

yea, he had commented that once you get up to the thicker/larger expanses of glass he didn't have it laying around like some of this other stuff he's cutting- so he has to order the glass and it's not as "under the radar".

Bum deal Michelle-

[supersmirky]

yeah....there's always the build it yourself route. Or go to DNA and get their used....sometimes there are good deals. I found a 300g that just needed to be rebraced for $300 including stand. Stand had some spots...but could have been redone.

[supersmirky]

Oh.....well why not go the acryllic way?

[fatfutures]

I just have to figure out a whole new Plan B. Part of the problem is space... I want to use this credenza as the base. It's already in use as a base. Works very well and provides non-fish stuff storage. Problem is... it's only 19" deep. *sigh*

Time to get creative... maybe when I feel better.

[AndrewH]

Go 48" x 18" x 18" (67 gallons) for your credenza? or even 56" x 18" x 18" (78.5 gallons)?

The main problem with tall tanks is getting the top not to bow under the pressure of the water. Maybe something more standard would be cheaper, or maybe find out the limits of the thinner glass?

[AndrewH]

My bulkheads came in yesterday, so I should be able to make some progress this weekend.

[biggin]

Where did you get them from?

[AndrewH]

:fw: to the corner... post # 14 of this thread.

[xtc]

ZING!!! :hehe:

:fw: to the corner... post # 14 of this thread.

[biggin]

I wish I would have seen that a week ago....

[AndrewH]

It was there over a week ago :rolleyes1:

[biggin]

Perhaps you should read....

I said I wish I would have seen that....

I know it was up... I wish I would have paid attention...

It was there over a week ago :rolleyes1:

[flamenco-t]

If you need help with an overflow, let me know..

I did an almost coast to coast overflow on my 75 gallon. I also did an internal overflow on my 20 nano..

stan

[biggin]

Did you put the overflow in your self?

What is the black pipe you used in the overflow?

If you need help with an overflow, let me know..

I did an almost coast to coast overflow on my 75 gallon. I also did an internal overflow on my 20 nano..

stan

[AndrewH]

I did an almost coast to coast overflow on my 75 gallon.

What is coast to coast? Is that the "suspended" look/style?

[biggin]

I thought it meant side to side....

[AndrewH]

That was my thinking too, like from one end of the aquarium to the other or something.

[flamenco-t]

Yes, I have the overflow from one end o the tank to the other. The main purpose to get the maximum exposure of water falling over to the overflow for better filtration.

If your tank is 48x18 and your overflow is 6x4, you can only get so much wate going into the overflow. If your overflow is the same LENGTH of the tank, you have better filtration as more water "falls" into the overflow into your sump for cleaning.

The downturn elbow inside the overflow box is to eliminate gurgling and sluping noise. I am also runing durso standpipe on the outside of the tank to make it quiet as the tank is in my bedroom.

I used a dark stained glass to make it stealth looking as I painted the back of the tank black.

stan

[flamenco-t]

What is coast to coast? Is that the "suspended" look/style?

Yes, I did this becasue I don't want to lose tank space for overflow :) if I have a 48x18" tank, I want all 48x18 of it for my fish lol..

stan

Yes, I did this by myself..

[AndrewH]

Well I have all of my equipment minus the in-line heater (grrrr).

My new lights (duel T5HO 6,000 K and 10,000 K but might change both to 6,000 K)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33/DoubleT5HOFixture.jpg

Filter (XP1)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33/RenaXP1.jpg

Heater (200W - still on it's way)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33/HydorETH200In-LineHeater.jpg

CO2 Regulator (M3 2 gauge - solenoid - needle valve)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33/CO2Regulator.jpg

And I have my Soil Master Select for substrate which I'll cap wit black gravel.

Hopefully, I'll have some pics of the tank up soon.

[xtc]

Kick yourself (twice) for bringin this without pics. :tease:

[biggin]

Has anyone seen a pic from Andrews new camera?

Kick yourself (twice) for bringin this without pics. :tease:

[AndrewH]

Kick yourself (twice) for bringin this without pics. :tease:

See posts #1 and #55 of this thread.

J/K I know what you mean. I took several pics as I setup the tank last night, so I'll see about getting some on the net tonight or over this weekend.

Has anyone seen a pic from Andrews new camera?

They're coming I promise.

[AndrewH]

Ok, picture update time (with the new camera).

The new light fixture:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0293.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0292.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0291.jpg

The tank:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0290.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0294.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0295.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0296.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0297.jpg

Here's where the tank sits right now. The Soil Master Select is DIRTY stuff!!!!!!!! I filled and drained the tank 4 times and this was the last fill even after the filter was running for 24 hours. It's gonna take a long time to get it to clear up/settle out.

Once it does, I'll start planting and aquascaping, then move over the shrimps :D

[poel_19]

looks awesome!!!

[biggin]

Filling into a bowl(or something) on top of a plate does wonders for that....

Also capping it first helps a lot....

Cool setup.... I like the tank.

[dcacjc]

Andrew where did you get the light fixture?

My tank with SMS settled down in about 24 hours.

[Vivarium Concepts]

Andrew, will you include any hardscape (wood, rock, sunken ship, pirate chest, etc)?

[AndrewH]

Filling into a bowl(or something) on top of a plate does wonders for that....

Also capping it first helps a lot....

Cool setup.... I like the tank.

Actually I did fill into a plate the first time which got me the next to last picture, and again the last time. The last fill was completely clear until I turn on the filter and all of the fall out was pushed outta the tubes.

I was planning on capping it because it looked lighter in color than I was going for (grey-ish), but when I added the water it darkened up really nice. I had been warned it was some dirty stuff and needed to rinsed, but I was too impatient and didn't want to spend several hours out in the cold trying to get his stuff clean. After 4 fills and drains of the tank the SMS is pretty clean. The last couple of times I drained the tank, I kept running my hands through the SMS to keep the small particles suspended into the water so it's be sucked out with the water. This morning it was almost clear (or at least a lot clearer than the last picture) and when I ran my hand through the SMS there was very little clouding. I think I might drain and fill the tank one or two more times to get it where I want it, then start the scaping tonight.

I still haven't decided how I want the scape to look. I guess I'll mess around with different configurations until I find one I like.

[AndrewH]

Andrew where did you get the light?

My tank with SMS settled down in about 24 hours.

eBay :D I'll see if I can find the guy I bought it from.

After the next to last picture, I left the filter on for 24 hours and the tank seemed a lot clearer, but it might have taken another 24 to be completely clear. I'm definitely gonna need to clean the prefilter sponges once it's all settled. :wha:

I guess I could put another filter on it just to speed up the process.

EDIT:
http://cgi.ebay.com/New-T5ho-t5-ho-4ft-4LAMP-Aquarium-lighting_W0QQitemZ110215905968QQihZ001QQcategoryZ4 6314QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem here's the same light I have but in a 4 lamp configuration. My 2 lamp was $62.99 with lamps included. I'm really happy with it ;)

[AndrewH]

Andrew, will you include any hardscape (wood, rock, sunken ship, pirate chest, etc)?

Well with the holes configured the way they are (one on the bottom and one on the back, but right over each other), my main problem now is figuring out how I'm going to do the XP1 intake and return. I think I have a good configuration going, intake from the upper hole and return from the bottom hole with all of the piping under the substrate. I'll change out the intake piping to all clear pipe once I get it working like I want and use the white PVC as a template to know how long the clear needs to be and as a backup for when it's time to clean the clear.

Currently I have some slate rocks and some driftwood, with more driftwood on it's way, that I plan to use in the tank (mostly to hide the limited equipment you can see), but my goal is to put together as natural looking tank as possible. :D No sunken ships, pirate chests, though I've considered putting together a "fun kiddo" tank with that type of stuff. I saw a nice Sponge Bob Square Pants kit the other day. My thinking was to get/keep the girls interest in the tanks and maybe let them help me do the maintenance and let them do the decorating (pick it out, put it in, and call it their own). I dunno yet, we'll see.

[bra8ndy8]

Well....it's lookin' good...keep up the GREAT work!!

[rolloffhill]

It took almost 2 weeks for mine to clear up, that was AFTER I capped it too...


I ran 2 h.o.t mags and cleaned them daily until it finally cleared. Guess I shoulda bought my xp3 sooner...

[Travis_Conklin]

Looks good keep the pictures coming and just a FYI I have soil master select in my tanks, it will settle down very nicely, just be ready for when you do move it again there will be a cloud of "smoke on the water" if you know what I mean.

[AndrewH]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0299.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0302.jpg

here we go... first one shows it settled a little, and the second after some of the scaping is done. The plants are pretty much just "in" the tank and will be moved around once I get some driftwood and other plants. It'll probably be a work in progress from here on out :D.

[AndrewH]

It took almost 2 weeks for mine to clear up, that was AFTER I capped it too...


I ran 2 h.o.t mags and cleaned them daily until it finally cleared. Guess I shoulda bought my xp3 sooner...

Dang 2 weeks! I'm not sure if the XP3 would've helped a lot. I think the trick is getting some fine holed sponge to get the small particals outta the water.

Looks good keep the pictures coming and just a FYI I have soil master select in my tanks, it will settle down very nicely, just be ready for when you do move it again there will be a cloud of "smoke on the water" if you know what I mean.

Yeah, I know exactly what you're talking about. I almost had it settled then I dug around putting in the plants. Clouded right back up. :(

[fishyjoe24]

wow nice tank, who did it do you think he could make me a 55 or 75 gallon tank? nevermind i finely read 8 page worth.
if he doing a 200 do you think he could do a 240 tall?

[AndrewH]

Thank you.
I dunno what he can and can't do (which is why I posted his phone number), I know he can do a 33 ;)

[rolloffhill]

wow nice tank, who did it do you think he could make me a 55 or 75 gallon tank? nevermind i finely read 8 page worth.
if he doing a 200 do you think he could do a 240 tall?

Don't you already have a 240??

[fishyjoe24]

Don't you already have a 240??

yeah but want another one the tinfoils are getting big.

[AndrewH]

Picture updates...

I got a school of wild caught Neons (10)... and you can see the hygro trying to spread (white roots coming down from the center of the plant ) :D
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0332.jpg

Here you can also see the heater. I'm STILL waiting on my in-line to come in sheeeesh!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0338.jpg

And 2 otos (one is hiding in the rocks in the first picture). These are some hyper little fish! When they move from one location to another it's quickkkkk!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0339.jpg

And here are some of the shrimp. I added 37 to the tank last night and still need to catch the rest outta the 10 gallon...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0342.jpg


Future plan is to get 10-20 Tetras (Rummy Nose, Red Fin, and/or Glass Fish/Ghost Tetra) and 10+ Glass Catfish.

[tsunderl]

Very cool! Nice, colorful combo with lots of movement.

[AndrewH]

Things left to do:
Clear plumbing for the intake
Clear plumbing for the return plus add holes for a spray bar
Change out the heater
Add more plants, fish, and driftwood
Finish the Aquascape (actually start it, then finish it :D)
Add the black gravel cap over the SMS
Build then add the CO2 diffuser
Plumb in the CO2 supply line
Plumb in the AutoFill and AutoDrain system
Put the lighting on timers

Hmmm is that all?

Oh yeah, build some doors for the open designed stand.

[AndrewH]

Very cool! Nice, colorful combo with lots of movement.

TYVM!

Yeah, those fishes (Neons and Otos) are quick little boogers. And with the Otos being white and brown and the Neons being Red Blue, Green, and Silver I'm hoping the other Tetras I have planned plus the clear Glass Catfish and Glass Tetra will add a nice contrass.

I also hope to add some dark brown driftwood and some red and bright green plants to add nice mix of colors.

I guess we'll see how it all comes out. And it can be changed if I don't like it ;)

[bra8ndy8]

looks like ur off to a good start!! wtg!!

[Vivarium Concepts]

Lookin good!

[supersmirky]

Sweet..finally getting some stock in the tank. I love it. Keep us updated

[AndrewH]

looks like ur off to a good start!! wtg!!

TYVM :D

It's started alright, but a long ways from done ;)

Lookin good!

TYVM!

Sweet..finally getting some stock in the tank. I love it. Keep us updated

I know, that's my favorite part. Planning the aquascape and the stock is always more fun the setting up all of the equipment, IMHO.

[AndrewH]

Update... 01-29-08

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0353_2.jpg

All of the plants are in, now comes the scaping. I messed around a little with the driftwood the other night, but don't think I like it (heck, you can't see 80% of it), so I'll change that up as well as put in some more slate on the right-hand side.

stay tuned... :D

[biggin]

Very nice.

[kewlkatdady]

looks very nice Andrew.

[dcacjc]

Awesome looking tank Andrew!

[AndrewH]

TYVM fellas.

I have 100 shripm coming in next week ($0.75 each :p:) so I hope to get the scape done this weekend before they get here.

None of the plants are in their final location, so does anyone have suggestions for the scape?

[dcacjc]

I still think you give us the hook up on your $.75 shrimp!!!!

[biggin]

Gonna take these carpet surfing as well?? ?

TYVM fellas.

I have 100 shripm coming in next week ($0.75 each :p:) so I hope to get the scape done this weekend before they get here.

None of the plants are in their final location, so does anyone have suggestions for the scape?

[AndrewH]

I still think you give us the hook up on your $.75 shrimp!!!!

Anyone with a dfwfishbox id will get a great deal on shrimp once I start getting them to breed again ;)

Gonna take these carpet surfing as well?? ?

I certainly hope not, but the survival rate was a lot better than I had hoped, so maybe it toughened 'em up a bit :D.

[Travis_Conklin]

If he is buying a hundred he will have a bazzilion in a few months I bought about 12 and seems like I have a bazzilion but they are all Ghetto shrimp. When I get my next tank set up I am going to seperate my tiger shrimp from my Ghetto cherries and I may get a better return on my tigers.

[rolloffhill]

What are ghetto shrimp??

[AndrewH]

x2, ghetto shrimp?

[supersmirky]

Whats that....Ghost Shrimp?

[xtc]

filthy mouthed, lazy shrimp- they leave 40z layin around too.

[dcacjc]

:point:

[supersmirky]

:exactly:roflmao

[AndrewH]

filthy mouthed, lazy shrimp- they leave 40z layin around too.

:rofl:

If I see any like that I'll be sure to take some pictures to show everyone :eek:

But to date, I have not seen any 40oz Colt 45 bottles laying around.

[poel_19]

you gonna keep the tall plants in front like that?? or move the slate some more?? looks great Andrew, just thinking about when future when the long leafed plants cover the front it'll be hard looking at your slate structure.....:Smoker:

[Misty]

Wow! Last time I looked in here, it was just an empty tank. Good job on it!

[Travis_Conklin]

I have Amano, Tiger, Red Cherry, and some kind of as I call "Ghetto cherries" in the tank. My Ghetto cherries are probably some kind of cross between Yellow shrimp and Green shrimp they are just sort of a off yellow/green clear shrimp, but they are not Ghost shrimp because they are breeding with the Red Cherries. It's hard to explain even harder to take a picture of because they are sort of translucent color.

[AndrewH]

you gonna keep the tall plants in front like that?? or move the slate some more?? looks great Andrew, just thinking about when future when the long leafed plants cover the front it'll be hard looking at your slate structure.....:Smoker:

Nope, most of the plants on that side of the tank aren't even in the substrate ;). The plan right now is to build up a "slate mountain" in that corner to hide the spray bar piping. I broke up the slate last weekend, so now I'm just waiting for the clear PVC to come in. Then I'll take out most of the plants, rocks, & driftwood; add the gravel, add the slate, add the driftwood, then finally replant everything hopefully for the last time.

One of the function of this tank is to grow out plants for the 90, so most of the larger, broad left plants won't be in there forever.

Wow! Last time I looked in here, it was just an empty tank. Good job on it!

TYVM ;)

I have Amano, Tiger, Red Cherry, and some kind of as I call "Ghetto cherries" in the tank. My Ghetto cherries are probably some kind of cross between Yellow shrimp and Green shrimp they are just sort of a off yellow/green clear shrimp, but they are not Ghost shrimp because they are breeding with the Red Cherries. It's hard to explain even harder to take a picture of because they are sort of translucent color.

Oh, I'm following you now. Are you sure they're not the males? The female Cherries are bright red and not very translucent, but the males are translucent with a slight hint of red.

The translucent one are very hard to photograph!

[poel_19]

ahhh gotcha!!1 excellent plan!!!

[AndrewH]

Progress :D

01-29-08
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0353_2.jpg


02-19-08
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/Lighting%20Ks%20on%20Tank/6000K-10000K.jpg

As you can see, the Java Ferns on the left are too big for the tank now (about to be transferred into the 90) and the Hygro on the right is so big it won't stay berried (also about to be transferred). The one little sprig of Micro Sword in the front left it taking off as well as the Tiger Lotus behind it.

I have the clear PVC and external heater now, so I'll see if I can't get that setup and going this weekend sometime (or maybe this coming week) with some updated pics.

And just to give some idea... the only thing I'm doing to this tank is lighting 12 hours per day and filling the evap water will double filtered tap (no dechlor ;)), no ferts, no root taps, no CO2, etc.

[tsunderl]

Dang that looks nice. My plants look like the before pic of the lotus. lol Keep us posted.

[EAST_TX_RN]

Andrew, you have done a remarkable job on that tank! Those plants have really grown! Keep us posted on any updates!

[supersmirky]

Certainly is nice!! Good job!! Andrew has a Green Thumb!

[bra8ndy8]

WOW those are great!! Good job Andrew!

[Vivarium Concepts]

Wow Andrew, very nice!
It is amazing how much the plants have grown in that short amount of time!

[AndrewH]

Thank you all for the wonderful compliments, I really appreciate it.

I have to contribute the majority of the success so far to the outstanding quality of plants I've received from the members here. They were awesome plants to start with and I think so far I've just managed to not kill them :p:.

I didn't get a chance over this weekend to re-scape like I had hope to, so I'll work on it this week and see about getting some before and after close up shots plus some before and after of the 90.

Now starts the on going battle with snails. grrrrrr...

[dhawk52]

those pictures are great. I am looking forward to watching this thread.

[xtc]

Nice work man! I think I'm gunna have to give Aaron a call here real soon- that looks super!

[AndrewH]

Thank you both for the compliments. I think if I had it all to do over again (re-ordering the tank and equipment), I'd change a couple of things...

1st, I'd have the holes on opposite sides of the tank (but still on the back panel).

2nd, I'd use a multi bulb T8 source instead of compact duel T5HO. The space savings is nice along with the sleek look, but the options are somewhat limited. If 2 tubes are too much and 1 tube isn't enough... I'm stuck. If I went with a 4 tube T8 fixture that would have given me much more options.

Other than that... I'm extremely happy with the tank and overall setup. The low height + lot-o-lighting = big plant growth.

Maybe life will stop getting into the way and I can spend some much needed (relaxing) time on the scaping of the tank ;) :hehe:

[ElijahTurtle]

How are the cherries doing in this?

[AndrewH]

Oops, I guess I only told supersmirky (might have been through PM a while back to him). All of the cherries and minamis (green) - about 100 shrimp total - didn't make it after I started using dechlor on the water changes.

But on the other hand, the more expensive yellow shrimp are breeding. I saw a tiny guy in there the other day. If I remember correctly I put in 12 yellows to start (which I don't know how many survived) and can see many adults swimming through the tank at any given time.

I think the plan is to get the scape completely done, then get some more cherries and others (and NO MORE CHEMICALS IN THE TANK - not even dechlor ;)).

[ElijahTurtle]

Well with plenty of plants & a light stocking load, you probably could get by with very few water changes & only small ones at that.
BTW what dechlor product were you using? I don't want to make the same mistake LOL

[AndrewH]

Amquel +

I still do regular water changes, I just use double filtered water (in both tanks) and have yet to have any problems (unless I ad chemicals).

[Blake]

Looks great! I know what I want to do next haha

[AndrewH]

Well tyvm!

I'm way over due for an update in this thread, especially since I've moved a lot of the plants out to the 90.

As soon as I finish painting the living room I'll have more free time (= fish time).

[budwick weiser]

what do you mean by double filtered water? what type of setup are you using to do this? i am retarded i guess so don't be mean lol

[fishyjoe24]

i'm not reading 13 pages to find out what i need. can he make lids for my 240 and what's his name and number and who do i tell him sent me?

[greeneyed]

Adam at 817-992-0779

I think his limit is 75 gallons (because of the trimless feature and glass thickness), but it never hurts to ask :Dpost 18

he'd probably have to make a custom top, but you're probably looking at $10-$20Post 19

All on page 1.

[fishyjoe24]

thanks.

[AndrewH]

what do you mean by double filtered water? what type of setup are you using to do this? i am retarded i guess so don't be mean lol

It's not a problem... I didn't talk about it (or link it) in this thread. I have a thread going about it in the DIY section. Pics start at post #50...
click the little arrow beside my name ;)

post 18

Post 19

All on page 1.

TY sir...

[Travis_Conklin]

Andrew, I have used Amqel + with no problems on my shrimp tank. But I am not sure what other "chemicals" you have used in the tank. I have read that the shrimp very susceptible to elements such as copper and others which are in the fertz like Trace by Flourish, but beside that I do use Flourish Iron on my shrimp tank. Just a heads up.

[AndrewH]

Well the 60 or so Red Cherry Shrimp I had in the 10 gallon were used to just double filtered water. The 75 or so new shrimp I'm not too sure about what they were used to.

When I setup the 33 and started using Amquel+ the RCS died and the others didn't. My best guess is that the new chemical (at least to them) plus the fact that it was a fairly new tank was a one two punch that they couldn't recover from. I think one or the other wouldn't have been such a problem, but both together did them in.

No other chemicals in the tank.

Thanks for the input!!!

[Lowtech]

Nice looking tank

[AndrewH]

01-29-08
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0353_2.jpg


02-19-08
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/Lighting%20Ks%20on%20Tank/6000K-10000K.jpg


04-09-08

Full Tank shot
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/04-09-08%20pics/33_04-09-08.jpg

Left side - Giant Hygro forest
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/04-09-08%20pics/33GiantHygroJungle.jpg

Right side - Foxtail
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/04-09-08%20pics/Foxtail.jpg

Center - Rummy Nose Tetras hiding under the Red Temple (w/ reflection of my shirt :cs:)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/04-09-08%20pics/RummyNoseTetras.jpg

[bra8ndy8]

HOLY CRAP!!!! You need to do some pruning!! Those have grown like CRAZY!!! Looks Great!!

[AndrewH]

TYVM

I know... the Foxtail and Giant Hygro are taking over.

In the picture of just the Foxtail, you can't see it, but there's like 5 different types of plants right there and they're all hidden.

I plan on spending some time on both tanks soon, so hopefully I can trim everything back and get another update showing some of the other plants in there.

[rolloffhill]

Clip, clip, clip.....

[xtc]

reminds me of Playboy back in the 70's

[bra8ndy8]

reminds me of Playboy back in the 70's


:wha:

roflmao

[ElijahTurtle]

(w/ reflection of my shirt :cs:)

LOL a "Nerd Alert" shirt :hehe:

Tank looks good. BTW I called Adam, He'll have my sump ready by Saturday or Sunday. Only $25!!!

[AndrewH]

"FISH NERDS RULE"!!!!

Told ya you needed to call him :D :exactly:

[AndrewH]

reminds me of Playboy back in the 70's

:eek: Playboy had girls with large green plants grow outta their ***********? :wha:

Man am I glad I wasn't born until the 80's :D

[biggin]

X2....

:eek: Playboy had girls with large green plants grow outta their ***********? :wha:

Man am I glad I wasn't born until the 80's :D

[xtc]

My turn!! :happydance:

Calling Adam today.

Custom tank: 46" x 15" x 15" (40galish). It will be a planted tank for the lower spot in this stand- replacing the two 10g breeder tanks pictured. I plan on having a built in/removable bulkhead in case one of the dwarf apisto pairs breed and want solitude. Tank will be calm friendly apistos, gobys and kuhli/black loaches and inverts. I plan on researching a particular river/region and trying to stick to that if possible.

Reason being- I'm finding the light on my shorter (10g tank) is much better than the light on my taller (55g tank)- so I want a shorter head space.

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l282/Fishgallery/FishTanks130.jpg

[kewlkatdady]

I want a shorter head space.




TMI my friend...

[xtc]

:hehe::hehe:

[supersmirky]

Hilarious

Well keep us updated Chris. I have wanted Adam to make me a tank as well. Can't beat his prices!

[AndrewH]

01-29-08
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0353_2.jpg


02-19-08
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/Lighting%20Ks%20on%20Tank/6000K-10000K.jpg


04-09-08

Full Tank shot
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/04-09-08%20pics/33_04-09-08.jpg



07-15-08
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/07-15-08%2033%20gallon/IMG_1058.jpg

[AndrewH]

This tank is always changing and evolving.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/07-15-08%2033%20gallon/IMG_1059.jpg
^Right side close-up

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/07-15-08%2033%20gallon/IMG_1060.jpg
^Left side close-up (notice all the Red Tiger Lotus babies :D at least 8 and I know there's at least 10 times that amount in the 90 ;))

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/07-15-08%2033%20gallon/IMG_1061.jpg
^One of the 3 spot gourami fry

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/07-15-08%2033%20gallon/IMG_1063.jpg
^Couple more gourami fry, an oto, some snails, shrimp and way in the back is the Red Temple

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/07-15-08%2033%20gallon/IMG_1067.jpg
^Mostly the same as above but a neon

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/07-15-08%2033%20gallon/IMG_1068.jpg
^Close-up of the large Red Tiger Lotus on the right, another gourami fry (yeah I have a butt load of 'em and still have another tank full) and the moss covered driftwood in the back

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/07-15-08%2033%20gallon/IMG_1069.jpg
^View from the top (right-hand side)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/07-15-08%2033%20gallon/IMG_1070.jpg
^View from the top (left-hand side)


*Oh and sorry about the dirty glass. I'm surprised I remembered to snap a few pics of the tank, but then I forgot to clean it up and get it ready. Oh well, there's always tomorrow.

[kewlkatdady]

dude...
you need a weed eater...





j/k... it looks GREAT!!!

[AndrewH]

Thank you sir!

Believe it or not, I trimmed this tank two weeks ago (and I trimmed it back pretty far) and ended up sending out 6-8 sandwich baggies full - as in as full as I could get them - of clippings and this is how it looks now.

At this rate I don't think I'm going to try my "summer" growth plan (kiddie pool outside in the sun with aquarium plants). Heck I can't keep up with what I have in the house.

Those 3 different Hygro species on the left are definitely fast growers. I'll see if I can get some good shots of the three different leaf types tomorrow.

[kewlkatdady]

tell me about this tank setup...

I think i remember that you do NOT has cO2 on this tank...

any supplements?

I know your lighting is insane...

[AndrewH]

Yup, the only thing I have on this tank is lighting. Currently running 3 - T5HOs lamps to see if I can get the glosso to take hold, which puts it at 4.91 watts per gallon, but normally I only have 2 - T5HOs at 3.27 watts per gallon. Another way to say it is normally I have 10,000 lumens on the tank and currently I'm running 15,000 lumens.

Including all the filtration, heating, lighting and the tank I have maybe $200 in the setup not counting $5 and $10 here and there on plants off the net (which 90% were free clippings).

Very low tech and easy to maintain. No ferts/supplements, no CO2, no water changes. Nothing but lighting for 12 hours per day and trimming once in the morning, once in the evening and 6 times on Sundays - J/K. Trimmings are normally once a month, but since I added the extra tube it needs to be twice a month.

[kewlkatdady]

whats the fish stock list ?

oh and what is the substrate?

[AndrewH]

10 rummy nose tetras
10 neons
2 otos
so many shrimp I can't even begin to count them all - best guess is in the 100 to 200 range
and somewhere in the area of 10 3 spot gourami fry.

Shrimp are breeding now. Saw 3-5 (kept moving around on me) female shrimp with eggs yesterday, so 28 days or less before they drop.

Will move the gourami fry out asap and will add another school of small tetras or barbs (something that hopefully won't eat the shrimp babies).

Also plan on adding at least 2 more otos at some point.

Substrate is Soil Master Select - Charcoal color (about 1/3 of a 50# bag @ $13 per bag - 3"-4" deep in the tank). So far I haven't had any problems with this substrate an in fact, as you can see, the plants seem to love it.

[kewlkatdady]

looks great...
I'm still trying to figure out what I want to do long term with the 58...

I've done a few different things with it, but I"m really struggling not to turn it into a planted tank.

If I decide to turn it into a planted tank...
I have (2) 110 watt PC lights. Do you think 3.79 w/g is enough to get the results that you are getting?

Right now it has PFS, but I"m thinking of using 100% clay (kitty litter) or SMS. Would I need to remove the sand or just mix the kitty litter or SMS in with it?

[AndrewH]

TYVM

Your 58 would make an awesome planted tank. I love that cube-ish shape for planted tanks (cube or long IMHO). My 90 for example is kinna hard since it's so deep and not so long.

Yes the two 110 should be just right. One of the main successes with my tank is the fact that the light only has to go 10" to 12" to reach the bottom. The main concern with most high powered lighting is getting a good reflector to maximize the 110 watts to the tank and not to the rest or the room or lighting up the canopy.

If you don't already have good reflectors, I'd suggest looking at AH Supply.com (http://www.dfwfishbox.com/forums/production/www.ahsupply.com). If you do already have good reflectors, then you should be good to go as far as lighting goes.

As far as the PFS goes... I've heard some have good luck with it, some don't. Since you need to take out the UGJ system anyway (trust me you want to if you go planted) I'd recommend dropping the $13 on the SMS and be done with it. The Kitty Litter from what I hear is good at first, but turns bad within a few years. Supposedly it turns to mush and has to be removed or it'll foul the water.

I have SMS and gravel in my 90 with great success. The gravel underneath helps hold down the plants as the SMS is pretty light weight, so maybe leave the PFS and put the SMS on top of it.

[kewlkatdady]

hmmm....

Interesting...

When do you plan on trimming again?

[AndrewH]

I will probably trim the Hygros (all the plants on the left-hand side) this weekend if I get a chance.

You wanting some clippings?

[kewlkatdady]

damn thats too fast...
It'll take me a couple of weeks...

If I even do it.

I gotta get new bulbs and the SMS...

I need bulbs anyway, just trying the justifiy the $$$$. Let me dow some shopping...

Also, the 2 PC lights has 2 bulbs each... any particular bulb I should be looking for? I figured something in the 6000-7000K range right?

kewlkatdady added 4 Minutes and 45 Seconds later...

http://cgi.ebay.com/4-x-55W-Aquarium-Plant-Power-Compact-Bulb-6400K_W0QQitemZ290246078142QQihZ019QQcategoryZ4631 4QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

holy shiat... this is for 4 bulbs... I figured I'd spend this much PER bulb...

thoughts?

[AndrewH]

Oh, I see. Well I will be trimming the tank every other week so no big deal. I'll have all the clippings you'd ever want by the time you're ready for 'em ;).

I'm pretty sure you can get he 55W bulbs in 6,700/10,000 (one leg is 6,700 and the other is 10,000), but if you can't find 'em look for 6,000 - 6,500 - 6,700 - 9,325 - 10,000 - 11,000 K (different manufacturers).

I guess an easier way to say it is 5,000 K to 11,000 K aiming for the middle (but a lot of folks love the GE 9,325 K tubes).

I have 6,000 K and 10,000 K on the 33.


5300 K - 5400 K - 5600 K (http://www.1000bulbs.com/Full-Spectrum-55-Watt-4-Pin-2G11-Base-Compact-Fluorescent-Light-Bulbs/)

[AndrewH]

6,700 K and 10,000 K - $20 each (http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+3733+8068+11422&pcatid=11422) - Square Pin

6,700 K and 10,000 K - $21 each (http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+3733+8068+13314&pcatid=13314) - Straight Pin

8,000 K - $20 each (http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+3733+8068+8070&pcatid=8070) - Straight Pin

9,325 K - $30 each (http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+3733+8068+15381&pcatid=15381) - Straight Pin (PM me before you buy these ;))

[kewlkatdady]

thie link above is for (4) bulbs for $43 shippined to the door. I'm going to email him to see if he will do (2) 6700K and (2) 10000k bulbs...

This should be fine...right?

[AndrewH]

Yup, that should be just want you want.

The 6,400 K is a particular brand and I can't think of it at the moment.

Just double check that they're the right pin - Square or Straight which ever you have (I'd assume you have straight).

[kewlkatdady]

I think they are JEBO...
Not sure. And yes I have straight pin.

and thanks for the guidance.

[AndrewH]

01-29-08
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/33%20gallon%2011-30-07/IMG_0353_2.jpg


02-19-08
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/Lighting%20Ks%20on%20Tank/6000K-10000K.jpg


04-09-08

Full Tank shot
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/04-09-08%20pics/33_04-09-08.jpg



07-15-08
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/07-15-08%2033%20gallon/IMG_1058.jpg

Updates are long over due :baghead:

Had some problems with the tank (mainly lack of maintenance related), but been working on getting it back to it's former glory. Working on building a new stand for it and hopefully will move it from a back room into the living room soon :D

On to the tank: 05-08-09

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/Videos/th_Video_050809_004.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/Videos/th_Video_050809_005.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Andrew_H/fishy/Videos/th_Video_050809_006.jpg

[Typical Tony]

looking good

[AndrewH]

Thank you very much.

It's not back to where it was, but I hope to get it there real soon :hehe:

[Rock-Sales]

Very nice Andrew. I dig it.

[Typical Tony]

Andrew, does the guy who made the tank for you still doing it? man i want one just like that. looks very good.

[AndrewH]

Very nice Andrew. I dig it.

Thank you sir!

Andrew, does the guy who made the tank for you still doing it? man i want one just like that. looks very good.

Thank you.

To my knowledge he got laid off from the glass shop. His number should be on the first page or two of this post (Adam - should be his cell number, or at least was back then). He might have something going on the side again by now.

You can get a long 33 gallon (same dims as mine) but it comes with plastic trim, from the LFSs. If they don't have one they can probably order it. IIRC they were $65 retail, might be more now. I see them come up in the for sale section every once in a while.

Glasscages.com makes one for $65 (rimless for $104) , but if you want them to put the holes through the glass it's like $75 extra for the overflow feature. And I think it's $25 delivery charge.

I'm sure another local glass shop could cut the pieces pretty cheap if you wanted to DIY.