background question

[southernmommie]

I have a 10 gal. right now. I currently have 2 goldfish in it to prep the tank. I plan to use this tank for tetras. Can I use a plain black background for the tank? Will it affect the fish's behavior? I am a beginner and haven't had any experience with fish other than the basic 10 gal with beginner fish. Goldfish, tetras, and pecos. Eventually we will go with a bigger tank and different fish, but I want to establish my own habits with water changes and research more fish. Thank you.

[labnjab]

backgrounds are more just a personal preference, you can use anything. I only have one tank with a background.

[gm72]

Agreed--personal preference.

FYI, a 10 gallon is far too small for even a single goldfish, but it sounds like you are going to upgrade eventually. Understand also that goldfish are cold water fish while the others are tropical (warm water). The goldfish, if common, can get well over a foot long. The pleco, if common, will get around 18 inches. The pleco will eventually need at least a 55 gallon tank but preferably 75 at a minimum.

[southernmommie]

These goldfish that I bought aren't the keeper types of goldfish. They are feeder goldfish. They cost about a quarter each from Petsmart. I've actually rethought getting tetras after reading this board. I would like more active fish to watch since this is the tank in the main living room. I will post this question for a new post so it doesn't get lost.

Thank you for the responses. I wasn't sure if it affected the fish or not. Glad to hear it's just a personal preference.

[gm72]

Feel free to use your imagination. You can even hang fabric along the back of the tank, and there are thousands of patterns from which to choose!