TripleB

After much reading, searching, checking the finances, and measuring, it looks as though a 5 gallon tank for my son's room (8 months old) is as large as I can go right now.

So my simple question is: what is the best 5 gallon aquarium on the market for under $50 (not including heater)?

In just looking at all the different 5 gallon tanks (having no idea what I should be looking for) I like the looks of these two: 1) http://www.walmart.com/catalog/produ...uct_id=3635107 , and 2) the Eclipse System 6 gallon: http://www.aquariumguys.com/eclipse2.html

I know that I would need a heater with both. Is a fluorescent light also recommended?

I know that both have a filter system but is an air pump also needed with each?

BTW: any advice on what fish I should put in there that would be colorful and fun for my son to watch would be appreciated as well.

Thanks again for all your help on my previous post....I have learned so much that I had never even considered about setting up an aquarium. I always thought that you just bought the tank, bought the fish, added some anti-chlorine to the water, floated the bag of fish for 15 minutes, and then threw them in....thanks for enlightning me!!!

TripleB

COBettaCouple

I like the minibow 5g that walmart carries best out of the 5g tanks.

tkfury

I have the 5g minibow - I was going to order it but my little brother usually ends up stocking in the pet area and told me they had the tank for $34. I'd get a flourescent light since the light that comes with the tank isn't all that great - plus you don't have to worry about it heating up the water. Think walmart has a light that'll go with it for about $6 (not sure how good it is but the tank looks nicer when I have it on at night). Only thing I don't like is the way the filter sits in there - its either below the water line or up against the lid and vibrates loudly but I don't like seeing the water line so it could just be a personal problem.

A betta might be nice - the tank certianly is the right size for one. They are very colorful fish, you may even beable to find one that will match your son's room. You shouldn't need an air pump, I have one in mine because I like bubbles but once I get my little betta it might be too much movement for her so with a 5g I believe its all personal preference (there are air pumps that are very quiet but if your son is a light sleeper it may just be one less thing to worry about). I have heard of some bettas being very interactive with their owners, it comes down to their personalities but I still think a betta might be good.

swords3711

well if you have the space, you might be better off with a ten gallon. They are only between 50 and 60 bucks and I think they come with a heater. I think they are at walmart.