Anyone setup a "River Tank" ecosystem?

[mdelliott]

Good evening and thanks for taking the time to read my message.

This is my first post and I have enjoyed reading the posts I have came across so far. So I guess its time for me to break down and ask my question.

My family is toying with the idea of making a river tank ecosystem - unfortunately we will only be able to support somewhere around a 20 or 30 gallon tank for the time being. We have seen the kit that Carolina Biological sells but I was curious if anyone has the experience of creating their own and if there were any suggestions/advice to be given?

Thanks in advance and Happy New Year!

Mike

 

[Deaths Sting]

River Tank™ Ecosystems do not include plants, animals, or gravel. See the River Tank™ Plant Set (161541), River Tank™ Animal Set (161545), and River Tank™ Accessory Set (161549)..

River Tank Ecosystem, 30-gallon

$390.00

^this $400+shipping for a 30 gallon.... what a joke...

just build ur own.

 

[david503bk]

I seen someone do it on a clown loach tank. Really nice set up. Search it. 30 gallon seems a bit small though. I would suggest at least 125 gallon.

 

[Noto]

This sort of setup is not too difficult to DIY. Black Jungle has some nice how-to's:

http://www.blackjungle.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_itemId=3360

http://www.blackjungle.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_itemId=2108

These are for dart frog setups with minimal open water, but the same techniques can be used for a streambank-style setup. Also check out this nice DIY project from the Aquatic Plant Central forum: http://www.aquaticplantcentral.com/forumapc/paludariums/65424-streambank-paludarium.html

Besides the tank, you can get most of what you need at Lowe's or Home Depot. More specialized materials can be bought at Black Jungle and Josh's Frogs.

I've built a couple of these tanks, and I'll be glad to help you if I can. Is there any particular species or biotope you are interested in?

 

[Loachin]

A rivertank setup. This will be my next tank setup without a doubt. They can be beautifully done or they can look like a train wreck. A 30 Gal would be a great size for this approach.

My advice is to do some quality research to make sure you will be happy with the end result. I'm not sure how familiar you are with the "river tank setup". I wouldn't recommend clown loaches but there are several gorgeous loach species that thrive in the river-tank.

There is a book -- Loaches: Natural History and Aquarium Care is the first book of its kind to give extensive focus to this diverse family of aquarium fish. Experts from nine countries contribute their knowledge, experience, and photographs to this user-friendly guide. It delves into the natural history and husbandry of over 60 species of loaches, including the specialized brook and hillstream loaches, in both their natural and aquarium habitats. It also contains technical information on providing for the care of specialized loaches, including water chemistry and tank design, a comprehensive description of disease and treatment options, and descriptions of the first successful in-tank breeding of certain species.

The book is like 35 bucks but if your interested in loaches it would be a great resource for you. PLUS, it offers good advice on the river ecosystem setup. (Not trying to preach the book but I own it and find it very helpful.)

You can definitely DIY for cheaper than you can buy a kit and you will be happier in the end.