Phishies Inn

My 10 gallon tank is overstocked so I would like to get a 5 gallon to move my betta in (with the betta gone, the rest of my fish should be okay)...

When I check petsmart and the like, all the 5 gallon tanks are those silly "kit" ones with built in filters that I really don't want - does anyone know where I can find just a regular shaped 5 gallon tank, and then a hood to go with it? I'm pretty sure I'm just going to go with silk plants rather than live plants for once, so lighting isn't a big deal.

Also, what kind of heater should I get for a 5 gallon? It isn't a lot of water so I don't want to overheat the tank! And as far as filters go, I know bettas hate a lot of water movement so what filter would you recommend as one that doesn't disturb the water too much?

I'm running low on money so I'm researching the cheapest options available I just want to make my betta (and the other fish) happier by giving them more room and help the bioload lower a bit.

luna

You could get a 5 gallon kritter keeper and a 25W Visi-Therm Stealth. If you have an air pump to run one, you could pick up a sponge filter. Otherwise, The Whisper 10i is small and inexpensive, and there's an Azoo Palm Filter...I don't know if either of them are any good, though.

Kritter Keeper - something like this http://www.petco.com/product/12031/A...-With-Lid.aspx
Heater - http://www.drsfostersmith.com/produc...0&pcatid=12060
Filters - http://www.drsfostersmith.com/produc...5&pcatid=12085 and
http://www.drsfostersmith.com/produc...21&pcatid=9821
Sponge filter - http://www.drsfostersmith.com/produc...54&pcatid=3954

mlinden84

Where are you located? I've got a couple of extra 5s i'm not using...

luna

Phishies Inn

Yeah Iowa is a bit too far out - I'm in Virginia Where did you purchase your 5 gallons from?

Edit: The Kritter Keepers are plastic, right? Will they hold the water okay and not crack/leak? Also it says it has knockouts for air tubing, but do you know if it would have knockouts big enough for the heater plug and filter?

The Azoo filter seems to have a lot better reviews than the other one you mentioned. I might consider that one, thanks!

luna

I've seen people here talking about using the kritter keepers as small aquariums and quarantine tanks...they should be fine, and yes, they are plastic. I haven't picked one up and tried to "assemble" one in the store, so I can't give you specifics about what would/wouldn't fit, though.

Maybe one of the other users, like Rose - who I've seen talk about using them - will be able to explain it better.

mlinden84

I've found all of mine at garage sales and goodwill. I've never paid more than $10 for a complete setup 5 gallon tank. They are nice to have around if you need them.
You could always try posting a "wanted" listing on craigslist. A lot of people probably have tanks sitting around that they'd either give to you or sell for cheap. Or Freecycle.org is another awesome way to get fish stuff.

KittieKat

im kindof surprised to hear that u cant find a plain 5 gal at petsmart... that seems to be the only place i can find the regular rectangle tank with glass lid... of course every store is different and different states vary in product... i agree with michelle and look up some on craigslist or even ebay.. its cheaper on craigslist and u "win" right away lol... u just have to respond first is all.. usually

mlinden84

If you haven't tried freecycle, TRY IT!!! It's a yahoo group, made to keep things out of the landfill. And best of all, everything is FREE! I got a very nice computer desk, 55 gallon tank stand, a 27 inch tv, and a kitchen table in the last 2 months off of there. It's always a great way to get rid of things you no longer need but are too nice to simply throw away.
Ok, i'm done with my advertisement! But seriously, if there is a group in your area, check it out!

PEgan1983

Since you live in Maine you might have a Pets Supplies Plus. I live in Boston and know of two in my area. I found a five gallon tank there and also the hood. Also I have seen 5.5 gallon tanks at Petco if you have one of those near you. You may want to try craigslist or just searching yellowbook.com for fish supply stores near you and call around a bit. There are a lot of local fish stores that are willing to order supplies they don't have for you if you ask.

Lucy

The kritter keepers have a plastic lid and and place for an air hose. Since they are like a plastic grate, I don't think wouldn't be hard to cut out and place for the heater and filter.
I could never find a regular 5 tank either (like the 10g)

joy613

Most pet stores around here sell 10 gallon tanks cheaper than 5 gallon when they have them. I get most of my tanks second hand. Anything from craigslist to thrift stores.