Amnagrla

http://www.tropicalfishstore.com/Aquarium-Biorb.htm

I've seen some orb-tanks that look pretty bad.
This one is 8 gallons. I've noticed that 1) the one in the picture is overstocked anyways and 2) they have left space at the top for more a larger surface for oxygen to get in.

What's the consensus on this? Are biOrbs inherently evil? or if done correctly, can they be nice?

Luniyn

Before I knew better I was drawn to the biube (the tube like version of the biorb). The main reason I didn't end up getting it back then was because of it's under gravel filter system (which I have never been a real fan of). So in my opinion they aren't worth the price for the most part. The only place where I might consider one is if I was going to put it in the middle of the room for 360o viewing. In which case I would probably keep it VERY lightly stocked, like maybe a single betta. Otherwise if you are just going to put it next to a wall, you are better off with a rectangular tank that is not only cheaper but provides more viewing area. Again, just my opinion though... to each his/her own.

Amnagrla

no, I appreciate your opinion! lol

If I got one (which wouldn't be for MONTHS) it would be for a middle of the room coffee table or an end table in the living room, and you're right. I would totally keep it lightly stocked, I have never had a betta, but I was thinking of a betta, or maybe two goldfish (which I've also never had) or two gouramis.

I'm just looking to hear some concerns that I might not have thought about!

ecnaj143

I would be careful with orbs. Less surface area, which means less fish.

Luniyn

The reason I said betta is due to it being a single fish in the tank so surface area doesn't mean much, and also bettas aren't all that messy of a fish. Goldfish on the other hand are VERY messy and I would highly suggest not using them in the biorb. Yeah they would live and probably be fine (considering some people stick them in unfiltered fishbowls for years and they live) but it would be very hard to keep clear I would think. Also gouramis are related to bettas so shouldn't be kept in pairs (i.e. 2 males) as they will fight. Even 1 male and 1 female has about a 50-50 shot of working out. There is a chance that the male will chase the female around excessively and stress her out to the point of death. It's generally thought to have 1 male to 2 females in order to keep them happy but then you are pushing the limits of this style of tank. Though a good airstone in the tank that really breaks up the surface of the water well would help a lot. And just keep the feeding light so that not a lot of it falls to the bottom.

Howeyg

wow that list of celebrities at the bottom means the tank is very good or their lying. i think that people like paris hilton if they kept fish they would have a bigger tank....

Amnagrla

luniyn - I agree with everything! hahaha

thanks for the help everyone!