Hexagonal aquarium

[Ami]

Hi folks,

I am thinking of buying a 40-55 gallong aquarium and have been looking at 2nd hand tanks in my area. I've seen some hexagonal tanks for sale. I am under the impression that small (2-4 inches) fish will like a long tank...is this true? Or will a hexagonal tank work just fine? I plan to have cardinal tetras, zebra danios and cory-cats...may be fancy guppies instead of cardinal tetras.

~Ami

[sheamurai]

hex tanks generally aren't good for much as fish usually swim more left and right, not so much up and down...a hex tank will work, but you got schooling fish there that like to swim - my opinion would be that you are better off with a long tank...

[Rue]

...I agree...avoid the hex. They look nice, but aren't practical. Most people who get one, soon opt for a rectangular...

[dragoonwoman]

I have a hex tank, and unless you get "microfish" there isn't enough swimming length for the fish to be happy.

If you can find one, a 45g flat back hex has the same length as a 30g rectangular tank (36"), so that tank shape is something of an exception.

For ANY second-hand large tank be sure to check the center brace. Is it solid? Is it cracked in any way? If it is, walk away from the tank! Otherwise you could end up with a flood, if the brace lets go and the tank breaks from the water pressure. Center braces can be fixed, but it's a bit of a pain, so try to save yourself the hassle.

[Ami]

Thanks !
I found a 55 gallon set up with the stand for $125. However, the tank is 8 years old. So I'll make sure that I check the center brace.
The system has an underground filter....I have a Aqueon Whisper in my 20 gallon one which just hangs on from the side. Which kind is a better one?

~Ami

[Rue]

The UGFs aren't really used anymore, although some people swear by them.

Personally I like the AquaClear HOBs best. You should double up on your filtration...so get two HOBs, each for at least 50 g, or one large one...AC110 for example.