DeanAsploded

I did say that he was looking for a monster, and was willing to do pretty much anything as long as it didn't need a 1000+. I said that quite honestly. His heart has been set on having a large catfish since he was young. He's very willing to do this set-up as slowly as it takes for him to get enough money, cycle, etc. His tentative plan for the Lima or Ugly's tank is L: 8' W: 3' H: 2', and he's already considering expanding that plan so that the tank is almost wall-to-wall. Don't worry, it's not like he's going to put it in a 55 gal in his living room. With all that space to itself it will probably have a better life than most of the same species in the aquarium trade.

Do you know the pain from experience? lol
Thanks for the help, Tony.

Tony G.

lol no! i am too chicken to try and catch him with my hands! lol

DeanAsploded

Haha, I'll warn him.

DeanAsploded

Thanks for the help everyone.
The final plan is;

Sorubim Lima (Shovelose)
L: 108''
H: 24''
W: 36''
About 400 gallons.
Sand substrate. Grasslike in appearace plants on both ends. Rock or wood formations in the center with some clear swimming space. Floating plants over 1/3 of the tank.
Due to mixed reviews on the matter from research he will be attempting to house two in the tank, but will line up possible homes just in case they do beat on each other severely.

Striped Raphael
About 100 gallons.
One of the petstores near him always keeps at least 1 big tank (75 or more) in stock, so whatever they have once he starts on the Raphael tank.
Again, sandy. A few leafy plants but mainly driftwood decoration.
Two Raphaels, a 6 fish school of 3''+ cories and more if no problems arise.

Anyone see any major flaws in his plans?

Will take him a bit longer to raise up all the money he wants for the custom tank, and then longer after that for the Raphael tank, but he's very happy with his plans, set on it, and determined. Not to mention thankful for everyone's help, especially Tony's, as we didn't hear of the Raphael's before.