kingbabar

Hey everyone! A friend of mine is giving me one of his older fish tanks. I don't have the exact dimensions, but it's definitely around 25-30 gallons. The tank is hexagonal and easily over 2 feet tall. It might even be pushing on 3 feet. I don't think the tank is any wider than 1.5 feet.

My only experience is with standard rectangular tanks, so I was wondering if there was anything I should do differently with this tank? For instance, does the height of the tank have any influence over what kinds of fish I choose to add. My initial impression was to make it a tropical freshwater tank with corycats, cherry barbs, and maybe a few others. My main concern is to avoid placing fish that are more likely to stress out in this type of tank.

Thanks!

Ah, say for instance, this probably rules out my dreams of owning an African dwarf frog, doesn't it?

Lucy

It sounds like a great tank, but yeah, an ADF isn't a good choice for such a tall tank.
I don't have experience stocking tall tanks.
I know angels enjoy a tall tank. Considering it's about the same width as a 10g, any fish that would enjoy the horizontal swim room that a 10g allows and an angel can't swallow might be a good choice.
I'm sure others will give more of an idea what fish would do well.
Have fun stocking!

Edit: This link might help you figure out the size of your tank, Scroll down for common hex sizes.
Common Fish Tank Sizes and Characteristics

Tony G.

ya angels loove tall tanks and gives them lots of room to develop their long fins.

kingbabar

I have more information on the tank and thus, more questions. It turns out the tank is larger that I thought it was; it's about 40 to 45 gallons. How many pounds should I expect this tank to weigh?

Additionally, the tank does not come with any type of hood. Would it be difficult to find a large, hexagonal hood at the LFS? What are my options as far as making my own hood (maybe from plywood)?

Lastly, there is a minor hairline crack in the top corner on one of the side panels. The crack goes all the way through both sides of the glass, but it's very thin. I would want to re-apply silicone to the inside edges, so would it be fine if i put a layer of silicone on both sides of the crack?

Thanks guys!

Lucy

Here's sticky about Tank Sizes and Weight

I'm not sure about making or finding a hood for it. Maybe contact the manufacturer.
Some glass shops will cut glass for lids, then you can find a light that's the right size.

Not sure about fixing a crack. If no one replies to that question in this thread, you might want to start a new thread with a title that reflects the quesion.

kingbabar

Ah! Thanks very much. I'll consider doing just that.