Gsp tank and filtration question

[PhoenixAngel]

I've been looking through articles in the library and various topics in the forums. But, I have a few questions...

1. Is a 55g big enough for two gsp's? Some say yes, others say no. If it is too small, what size should I be looking for?

2. Is it alright to transfer the puffers directly to the larger tank (they are a little bigger than an inch and a half) or is it better to gradually increase the size of the tank to their growth?

3. Also, what kind of filter should I purchase? The only filters that I see at the local pet stores are the Penguin Bio Wheel and a few Whisper canister filters. None of them look adequate for 55g+. In that case I'll probably order one online. But, could someone suggest a good brand?

[Hilly]

I would say a 55g is big enough for 2 GSP's, If you find a 60g, have a look at the tank footprint and dimensions. The longer tank would be better to give them more space each. Width and height shouldnt be an issue on either of these tanks.

I've never used a bio wheel, they're not popular in the UK, other options for you to look at would be a large external canister filter like and Eheim, Fluxal, Filstar XP. I know the Eheim can go into marine conditions so brackish water for them wont be a problem, not too sure about the other manufacturers, worth looking into this option.

[spoot]

Bio-wheels tend to have a lot of salt spray. The marineland penguin bio-wheels tend to back siphon out all the water from the filter if the power goes out. You need to pour water in to help get it started again.

Aqua-clear filters are highly regarded here.

I would suggest to buy their final tank for them if it is possible, so as big as you will eventually want to go. Larger water volume leads to higher quality water, and thus healthier, happier fish.

[Myaj]

Getting them into the largest tank possible as soon as possible is always the best option. I would think a 55 would be a good size for two, but nothing else added.

I like AquaClear power filters (two of the 300gph ones or two of the 500gph ones would work nicely), they are reliable, relatively quiet and you can use them all the way through marine if you choose. They are a little noisy (motor hum and waterfall noise), but very affordable.

Cannister filters are a lot more quiet, but more expensive. Eheim is the "best" brand reputation wise, I personally like the Filstar XP series the best, myself. Many like Fluvals, I don't like the media layout and mine never primes for me.

Biowheels won't work well with any brackish water, the salt spray is a mess.

[Pufferpunk]

I would go with the 2 larger Aquaclears or 1 Aquaclear & an Eheim.

[PhoenixAngel]

Thank you for the help, everyone. It's much appreciated! I think I'll go with two 500gph AquaClears...

Another question, since my puffers are fw should I convert them to bw in the smaller tank they are in now? And cycle the 55g as bw? Or is it better to cycle the 55g as fw, put in my puffers...then gradually convert them to bw?

[Pufferpunk]

I'd get them into the larger tank ASAP. Worry about raising the SG afterwards.

[Myaj]

Agreed.

The more diluted the waste is (therefore, the cleaner the water) the better chances your fish will have to stay healthy.

Do you have the puffers yet? If you do, get the 55 setup, move over all their current decor and gravel and filter to jump start your cycle and move them right away.

If you don't have the puffers yet, get the 55 setup, cycle it (fishless cycling article in the library), and then you'll have the best environment possible for your puffers when you bring them home. Find out what the store keeps them in for a salinity, and cycle your tank at that level.