Tank setups?

[Pufferfish88]

Hello! I am currently looking to buy a GSP and I know some about cycling a tank and testing the water and such from the information I have found on this site. What I haven't found is what exactually I need equipment wise for a 30 gallon tank with 1 GSP in it.

I have read some places that I need a filter big enough for a tank twice its size due to the large bio load the GSP will produce. Is this true? What brand do you suggest? What about all the other equipment I need like a heater for my tank. Is there other equipment that I need such as things that make a current in my tank? I am very clueless to what I need equipment wise and any tips and information would be greatly appreciated so I can give my new GSP a great home!

[Bluntokian]

300GPH+ filtration, Powerheads, Heater. Just a start really...

[Pufferfish88]

Hmm... Ok not very specific but it's a good start!

[purplecandle]

Having a stronger filter helps you out a lot because puffer do have a huge bioload..you still have to do water changes..but you have a bit more peace of mind with a better filter..

Kinds of filter..nothing that they sell at walmart!

Just get a heater that is recommended for you tank size..it will say it on the box

Other things..include substrate, gravel is awesome and easy to clean..

Go ahead and stock up on marine salt for when you turn your water brackish..

You need a hydrometer

A REALLY good test kit (API liquid)

Lots of interesting decor..and hiding places..rock caves and such

[Pufferfish88]

Thank you! I am getting a better idea each post of what exactually I am investing in

[purplecandle]

Oh..and a siphon vacuum to pick up nasties and help with water changes

[Pufferfish88]

Should I use sand or gravel? I have heard sand because it is more gental on the scaleless puffers. But I also have heard it does not matter and gravel is easier to clean. How hard is sand to up keep?

[purplecandle]

I have tried both...I think sand is so pretty and natural looking...

But, when ever I cleaned the sand was such a pain in the butt, plus it clogged my filter

However, a lot of people on here use it with success..just remember to stir the sand to prevent what I think are called "gas pockets"

[purplecandle]

I keep saying I am going to bed..but then I think of something new to say..

Go ahead and find a good source for snails..or start your own snail tank....I just got mine started and it is saving me so much hassle!

[Brent]

+1 to purplecandle's posts... Although sand shouldn't clog your filter if you stir it slowly.

[Pufferfish88]

I saw walmart sells snails so maybe I could find some healthy ones to breed. I live in a smaller town during the school year, (spring break right now so I'm home), and they do not have a pet store there :\

[Pufferpunk]

Although sand shouldn't clog your filter if you stir it slowly.

Or if you unplug your filter before stirring.

[Pufferfish88]

Is it worth it to start cycling my tank if I am going to transport it in 7 days, only 45 minute trip to my apartment. If I drain the water to transport it and fill it up with new water at the new location, will I have to wait to put my fish in it again because of bacteria loss during the water drainage? Also how many days will it take to cycle with using product bought and not already used media?

Sorry for all the questions but I want to do this right

[trekenk]

Bacteria doesn't live in the water but on your decorations, gravel/sand, filter media. When moving just make sure to keep all these wet. Personally I would wait the 7 days till your back to your own apartment, just a lot easier.

[Pufferfish88]

Ah shoot I was hoping you would say "No get started now! ". I am very eager. If I don't start my tank until I am back at my apartment than the only place I can buy my GSP is 45 minutes away. I wanted to start it now so I could have him in the tank by the time I had to go back.