Stock tanks for rays?

[Conner]

Has anyone ever used one of the big galvanized steel stock tanks for rays? I was thinking about getting an 8'x3'x2' model (approx. 350g). Would probably line it with pond liner, since I wouldn't think the galvanized steel would be the best material for rays to be on? Anyone tried this before? I only ask because the 8'x3'x2' tank is only $200. Cheaper than I could build a similar size tank.

They also sell the rubber maid tubs, but those are slightly smaller and more expensive (although the store did have a 12'x2' round basin that I would've bought on the spot if the idiot at the store could have figured out the price).

 

[Kevaldo]

sounds good to me, would defo put a liner in there though

 

[Conner]

The only problem I can find with it so far is that I can't (probably) cut out the front of the tank to install a glass viewing window....

Anybody have any idea's on that point?

 

[ShadowStryder]

Check around here. Someone had posted a either fiberglass or plastic stocking tank
with a window made in front. They were checking into buying one. Can't remember who it was.

 

[Conner]

Well, I'm looking at buying a stock tank, then cutting a window into it. Those fiberglass tanks with windows are still pretty expensive.

 

[African_Fever]

Have you looked into a fiberglass/poly stock tank and putting your own window into it?

 

[Nic]

why not a rubbermaid 300 gallon???

 

[Conner]

The rubbermaid 300g (at least the ones available near me) have sloping, stepped sides, and the bottom has multiple support braces placed partially across it, making the bottom about the same dimensions as a 75g tank (estimated). Not very good for rays. There is a decent 8' diameter round one, but it costs about twice as much. The galvanized steel is cheaper and has straight, vertical sides.

I wouldn't necessarily need to have a viewing window on the side, I was just curious if anyone had done it or knew of a way to do it.

 

[crowconor]

aquatieco.com


they have fiberglassw tank with windows......

 

[FireMedic]

If I may spark a little conversation regarding your choice of a galvinized tank over a poly or fiberglass tank:
Sharks (and rays to an extent) has highly evolved receptors in and around their snouts that sense minute electrical stimuli in the water surrounding them.
Metal + Water always (eventually) = oxidation (rust)
The process of oxidation, even the most minute, causes a bit of eletrical disturbance. Not to mention a chemical reaction that may or may not be healthy for your rays in the long run.

Metal containers also are not as easy to manipulate with regards to drilling or fastening for bulkheads and pump return lines. Metal surfaces also have a tendency to be sensitive to outside forces such as the random bump or ding. Plastics are more able to be drilled, glued, sealed, hit, dropped and need I mention they do not react with their contents.
Plastics can be bent (gently) to fit into tight spaces and almost always return to their original shape. Most galvinized containers do not. They crack and fail.

Just food for thought.
Respectfully,
FireMedic.