Building my own tanks

[georgedv]

It seems to be equal or cheaper to build your own tanks these days. Just want to get feed back to see if it is practical in the sense that I am making someting that will serve the dwarfs I want to house.

My stands have shelves 2' X 4" and canhold about 1000 lbs. I was thinking to build three tanks for each shelf about 15"long X 23"deep X 14"high. I don't know how to figure gallons, so if anuy one can it would be helpful.

My goal (hope) is to be able to keep two pairs of compatable dwarfs in each tank w/some dithers.

So what are your opinions?

Thanks

g

 

[Mike Wise]

Well your tanks will be about 21 gallons each. The rule for calculating gallons is LxWxH/231 (or 231 cu. in./U.S. gallon).

Personally, the tanks are about the right size for a trio of most apistos. Two different pairs of species of some of the more peaceful species may get along and breed together. Most macmasteri- and nijsseni-group species, for example, will find the tank too small to accept another species. A single male of most macmasteri-group species will take over the entire tank and make the life any other competition in the tank hell.

If it were me, I would build 23x23x12 in. (27.5 gal.) tanks instead. The bottom area is large enough for 2 pairs/trios of many other apistos. Water pressure is based on water depth. Excess water pressure needs thicker glass to prevent warping of the glass. Tanks 12" tall can be made of "double pane" glass. 14" tanks tanks will need thicker glass that is comparatively much more expensive. I have built small tanks in the past - cut the glass, tape and siliconed everything. It isn't that difficult, if you don't need a frame of top glass. If you want a glass top you will either have to make a frame from glass strips or buy a manufactured frame. If you don't cut your own glass (an art in itself with long, thick strips) it would be cheaper to buy pre-made tanks. My guess is that 4, 15 gallon tanks/shelf will be cheaper than making your own custom tanks.

 

[georgedv]

thanks again Mike,
I like the 15 gal idea. It will certainly save me time and work.

I called all the lfs i visit and none carry 15gal tanks. I also called two pet chain stores and they don't either. Is there a reliable source online I an use to order these.

Thanks

g

 

[Mike Wise]

I never thought of 15s being a rare tank. Talk to the store about a custom quantity pre-order. Don't expect much savings over retail. I worked in the wholesale end of the business for a while. There is very little mark-up on aquariums compared to other dry goods.

There is someone who shows up at many of the larger midwest fish conventions who makes all shapes and sizes of tanks. They looked like tanks, too. Sadly, I forget his business name. I know that he has a web site. Maybe someone else will remember.

 

[Mike Wise]

I never thought of 15s being a rare tank. Talk to the store about a custom quantity pre-order. Don't expect much savings over retail. I worked in the wholesale end of the business for a while. There is very little mark-up on aquariums compared to other dry goods. Shipping costs are a killer. Freight haulers never liked delivering a semi full. The trailer was very light and subject to some breakage of tanks.

There is someone who shows up at many of the larger midwest fish conventions who makes all shapes and sizes of tanks. They looked well made, too. Sadly, I forget his business name. I know that he has a web site. Maybe someone else will remember.