SHARK TANK help plz im new

[TANK0789]

i am new to all this and i just found out that you can have real sharks and not these freshwater ones petco sells. i live in wisconsin so its hard to find these things out. well to start i have a 55g tank i know i would have to get something bigger. but i just want a run down of what i need and how i should go about doing this? for example raise him in the 55g and purchase a 150 or somthing later ? please help i am so excited to start working on this. i have been reading all day! and i just cant wait so please any info will help! i dont know which shark i would get either thought about the black banded or the bamboo. thanks!

[Juggler]

220 gallons bare minimum for a bamboo shark.

[TANK0789]

ok well what about a black banded? thank you tho

[TANK0789]

or are there other species that would be better? all info in greatly appreciated

[badbrady06]

gallons aren't the big thing when it comes to sharks dimensions are better. big skimmer lots of turnover in filtering gph fine sand iodine. do alot of reading and keep asking for advice. when you're ready try a coral cat shark they only get about 2 ft. tank at least 2 ft x 6ft x18in tall. they are very nice to keep but must be done properly.

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

Your best bet would be to start off with a Coral Catshark, hardy and stay small (around 24" as adults). The bare minimum for these guys would be a standard 220g.

P.S. The Blackbanded bamboo is the same as bamboo and brownbanded bamboo, as in my avatar. These guys require at least a 420-480 as adults.

[TANK0789]

thank you for the info. where would i be able to buy a coral? not going to yet lol just curious of price and what not. thanks

[badbrady06]

check aquabid here they sell for about 75 bucks

[TANK0789]

thanks all. again if you have any other advice just keep loading it in here! i will be on for about another hour so please just and ideas or thoughts plz leave them!

[TANK0789]

im not seeing any on there? i looked them up and wow those are pretty too!



also what about other fish in there? are there any that get along with a coral carshark?

[TANK0789]

anyone have some idea on where to get some deals on aquariums? thanks

your also saying a 220g for both kinds so why did you recomend the coral?

[paveking1]

You would want to start with a 220 & be ready to upgrade within 18 months of buying a shark.If your going to do a shark tank you better be prepaired for these guys .
Do you have any experince in salt water ?not trying to bash you but you might want to keep the shark keeping to the experts until you get your feet wet LOL.
Start with a fish only system first & move up from there.Keeping a shark or a ray is like having a reef tank .We will all be glad to help but start slow & work your way up.
I have a full blown dominated sps reef tank & my shark tank is more up keep.

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

No, Brownbanded Bamboo's recommend around 420-480g as adults, considering they reach 36" at maturity.

I highly recommend joining www.sharkraycentral.com I'm a member there (sharkman1), and this is where I learned all my knowledge about sharks and rays, along with Scott W. Michael's "Aquarium Sharks & Rays."

There, they talk about saltwater sharks and rays and will be happy to answer all of your questions about them.

[TANK0789]

they can say what they want. what i was hoping to do is. use my 55g get some fish that would go good with the shark. and just have them fish for a bit. and see if i like it. and then from there get a shark then get a bigger tank like a half year later. how does that sound? please give me a chance on this. and if you have any advice please let me know!!

[paveking1]

We are willing to give you a chance ,but you wanted our help & don't want to listen to us.A 55 gal will not be good for a shark ,you can get a shark egg & try that in the 55gal for like 3 to 6 months.You will half to keep him by himself with some rock for a cave for shelter & resting.You are also going to need a very good skimmer for a shark with alot of filtration & possibly a refugium.Sharks produce alot of ammonia & you need to get get rid of it asap.We are here to help not too bash you,We are just saying it would be easier on you & the shark to start bigger in the beginning.

[andy321]

Not many fish that do well with a shark will fit in a 55

[TANK0789]

well your not getting what im saying. i wanna start him in the 55g. and once he starts growing move him to a 220

[paveking1]

Ok fine start in the 55 & move up like i said in my post he will grow very quickly in there so when you have the 55 set up order the 220 & start setting that up soon afterwards.Just keep him by himself in such a small space. Good Luck

[JustinReef]

Why do you insist on starting with a 55G? Please do not take this the wrong way but you sound very impatient. Someone asked you if you have ever kept saltwater aquariums before but Im not sure you answered that...this is a very important question because a shark is not a beginner fish. They are sensitive to nitrates, not just ammonia. They are tough fish to treat when sick, they get relatively big, ect.

I think if you want a shark, you should do your research and get one for sure...when your ready. If you have never kept saltwater fish before, you need to start with other, hardy fish first. And please do not put a shark in a 55G, even from an egg. Its just so hard to keep water quality up in such a small tank. They feel cramped, even if small and who knows, something may come up and you may not be able to spend that $2000 on setting up a proper 220+ size tank for him. Its pretty expensive to set up and keep a big tank, so make sure your ready for it. Sharks should really go into a well established tank in my opinion, so it should be set up well before you buy one. Please think if the shark, not just yourself :)

Have fun learning and have fun setting up the tank, knowing you will one day have a shark!

[lendz]

You'll end up paying more in upgrading.

[Jerry W]

Think ahead to this proposed upgrade. So many hobbyists purchase fish poorly suited to their tanks, but tell themselves (and others) that they'll soon be setting up a huge system to keep their fish in. All too often these plans fall through for any number of reasons; finances, space, problems with other people who don't share your enthusiasm for the hobby. You mention buying a bigger tank in 6 months? Is something preventing you from buying the big tank now, and will that be the same obstacle 6 months from now? If you can realisitcally afford and equip a 55 gallon tank, then stock it accordingly, and not with a fish that will outgrow the system in a very short time. You've been given good advice in this thread. Please take it to heart. You'll learn alot from experienced hobbyists who have made mistakes they want others to avoid.

[TANK0789]

ok im sorry all! i am impatient. i will not be putting a shark in a 55g but how does this sound. could i use the 55g for a starter? get some fish that go well with a shark in a 220. and see how things go? see if i really like this and see if i really wanna get a shark. would that be ok? if so i would need a list of some good fish that go well with a shark. thanks!

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

Ok, we are trying to help you, like you asked for. You've been asking for tips and advice and guess what? We're giving those things to you, you just won't listen. Take our advice, considering most of us have actually kept sharks, or hard to keep fish at that, and don't screw this thing up since you want to do this thing so badly. But before you start a shark tank, you NEED to respect and research the species you plan on getting before you jump to conclusions, that way you will be fairly prepared when you do buy it.

[JustinReef]

Have you kept a saltwater aquarium before? You still avoid this question...

[badbrady06]

hey man slow down. start with a 220 maybe a grouper and an eel. (panther grouper snowflake eel) if you like it gat a coral cat shark in 6 months to a year. they should all be ok in the same tank, and you should be able to house them there for some time. these people are right on about the 55 gl. i also think start with something easy (grouper eel). it is expensive and hard to keep sharks. if done properly you will enjoy it very much.

[TANK0789]

no i havent kept saltwater tanks before. which is why i said i would prolly use my 55g to start out with some smaller fish for now and get the hang of it. i can not afford the 220 at this moment i just started my job and i only got paid for my first 2 days last week and will be getting paid again in 2 weeks. and in that time i am obviously learning alot and starting out with just the 55g and some small fish. so what would be good for my 55g? (something that may go good with the shark later? will the grouper and eel be ok in a 55g?)

[badbrady06]

the eel would be ok not the grouper. well depending on the size of the grouper, get him about 6 in and you should be good for awhile. when you do change to a bigger tank try like a naso tang for a little while before getting the shark.

[TANK0789]

why try the tang? and i also heard that the 220 wouldn't be big enough for a adult shark? from my local pet store. your thoughts?

[Onte]

Let me give you some newbie advice because hey, I'm a newbie with a new tank.

You're looking at spending hundreds of $$ on the initial set up of your 55g. You're looking at at least 30mins a night of regular maintenance and you're looking at devoting a lot of time to maintenance and water changes on your weekends. No football, no cruisin', you're inside, working on your tank.

You've also got to take into account the hundreds of $$ in supplies such as a quarantine tank, food, test kits (optional but you MUST test your water somewhere) and even stupid piddly stuff such as nets, magfloats, thermometers and buckets for water changes. This expense and time commitment is required before you even add your shark and knowing nothing about sharks, I could not begin to tell you how much MORE time and expense is required of a shark.

I'm not trying to deter you but you do seem impatient and I think you must understand that this hobby is nothing like you seem to think it is. Even after you add water, sand, salt and rock , you're facing 30-60 days of waiting for your water chemistry to even out before you can even add fish. You can't just chuck 30 fish in there 12 minutes after you dump in some sand.

You seriously seriously seriously ought to consider a regular reef set up with some small fish before you take on the responsibility in caring for a shark. The difference between a 55g and a 220g+ is vast - figure out how to care for your 55g before you commit yourself to an animal that requires something so far above your (and my) head.

[TANK0789]

thanks onte. i am going to do the 55g for now so how it goes. but im wondering which fish i could use in it? i think i would get the eel but what else?

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

Never listen to LFS about sharks, considering they only want to make money, unless they really know what they're talking about.

[TANK0789]

lol alright so a 220 would be ok?

[TANK0789]

what are some more dangerous sharks you can get?just curious lol

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

For a Coral Catshark, yes, but not for any other adult species that you can get regularly.

As for dangerous species, you can get Sand Tigers, Bulls, etc. But you have to have a permit to keep one, and a huge income.

[TANK0789]

haha wow no kidding? thats insane! bulls? throw them food and run!


do the coral cats still have teeth?

[TANK0789]

how much is your 10x5x3 going to cost you?

[shabreeson]

for a 55 you could probably get a dwarf lionfish(personally I think that a fish only tank with live rock tank is a waste of a 55gallon but that is just me). please do your research on them on reefkeeping.com just search lionfish and you should be able to pull up the article. Two of the greatest banes with keeping fish are impatience and inexperience. Please research, start small and listen to peoples advice.

in my 55 I have 3 Bartlett's Anthias, 1 flame angel, 1 royal gramma, 1 A. Allardi clownfish, 1 copperband butterfly. with all of that I somehow am managing to keep coral.(I'm done with my fish selection)

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12283406#post12283406 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by TANK0789
haha wow no kidding? thats insane! bulls? throw them food and run!


do the coral cats still have teeth?

Yes, but their teeth are made for gripping and holding prey, not cutting.

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12283418#post12283418 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by TANK0789
how much is your 10x5x3 going to cost you?

Around 5K including equipment, and someone helping us build it. Not a bad price if you ask me.

[TANK0789]

thats not bad at all. wow thats awesome

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

They sell Blacktip Reefs and Whitetip Reefs as well, for about $1000-$2000.

[TANK0789]

yeah but you need a damn neer zoo for those. lol pretty sweet tho

[TANK0789]

yeah but you need a damn neer zoo for those. lol pretty sweet tho but i wish you could keep them babies at like 2 feet long that would be sweet

[TANK0789]

what other sharks are there that are around the 3 foot range? just curious

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

You could, but you'd need a permit and a tank in the 100,000's of gallons.

[TANK0789]

ha i will pass on that for now lol what about 3 foot ish sharks?

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

You'd still need permits, just because of the species. If it was a 3' Browbanded Bamboo, you wouldn't need one.

[TANK0789]

i know lol im talking like are there any other sharks that grow only around 3' ?

also when i was in florida we were catching little hammerheads off the beach now i know they weren't real hammerheads but what would they have been? gulf side. might have pic.

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

They were probably just juvenile Hammerheads, its common sense, really.

As for other 3' sharks, you're still looking at Bamboos, Eppies, Catsharks, etc.

[TANK0789]

ok i was hoping there was more of a like hmm like a black tip LOOKING shark but one that grew only to around 3' i love how they look. and i wish they there would be a species like that.

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

Well, there are a group of sharks called the Smoothhounds that require cooler temperatures and bigger tanks. They are an active swimming, cool-water shark that needs a tank/pond of about a 15-18' diameter.

[TANK0789]

o really?

[TANK0789]

what other fish are out there ? besides piranhas fish sorta like barracudas sharks ? im guessing none

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

What kind of fish do you mean?

[TANK0789]

well just fish like sharks. umm very active fish and VERY aggressive fish with teeth lol

and which of the smoothhounds do well in aquariums

[kjreiniger]

For fish in a 55gal that would be compatible with a shark, you have a number of options. I had a 55 FOWLR setup for a year with:

Panther Grouper
Volitan Lion
Snowflake eel
Picasso Trigger
Maroon CLown
Yellow Tang

All of which were stable and healthy. Aside from the clown and tang, all should be compatible with the shark.

[TANK0789]

cool thanks!

[TANK0789]

anyone know the types of smoothhounds that do well in an aquarium?

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

Most of them, especially Gray and Brown Smoothies do well in large, cooled aquariums.

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12284983#post12284983 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by kjreiniger
For fish in a 55gal that would be compatible with a shark, you have a number of options. I had a 55 FOWLR setup for a year with:

Panther Grouper
Volitan Lion
Snowflake eel
Picasso Trigger
Maroon CLown
Yellow Tang

All of which were stable and healthy. Aside from the clown and tang, all should be compatible with the shark.

Quite the opposite, buddy. Tangs and clowns are generally ok to house with sharks, its the triggers, puffers, lions, butterflies, and angels that are bad tankmates for them.

[TANK0789]

well what size tank are you talking about for those?

[TANK0789]

wow those brown smoothies are really pretty i like those alot!

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12284886#post12284886 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by TheSaltwaterGuy
Well, there are a group of sharks called the Smoothhounds that require cooler temperatures and bigger tanks. They are an active swimming, cool-water shark that needs a tank/pond of about a 15-18' diameter.

[TANK0789]

does it matter so much the gallons of a tank? or is it more so the dimensions?

for example. 96x24x24 rated 240g
96x24x30 rated300g

wouldnt the 240 be just fine?

[TANK0789]

the tank thing i just posted not talking about your last post! sorry it looks like that lol

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

Yeah, length and width are more important when it comes to sharks. Height isn't as important, but still should be around 24" high.

[TANK0789]

ok makes sense. so wouls a 96x24x24 be ok for them sharks or would something along the lines of 96x36 be better? or just whats yours opinion i know the whole 15-18 thing but if im only having 2 feet for height does that change anything.

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

Not for a Smoothhound. Remember, they're an active swimming shark, therefore needing more swimming room. For a juvenile, I wouldn't go for anything under a 10' diameter pond, and for adults, a 15-18'er would suffice.

[TANK0789]

ha alright if i actually get a tank that big some day...shiiit and one of those sharks it will be the happiest day of my life!!!!!!!!!!

and i just found one for 3,000 which isent that bad

[TANK0789]

what would your electricity bill cost tho lol?

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

Not sure.

[TANK0789]

lol well how about a 14' but the height is only 2 foot think that would be ok?

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

Actually, for a tank and shark that big, I would go for around 3-4' tall. And be sure not to fill the pool up all the way, just to prevent the shark jumping out.

[TANK0789]

lol good call ha never even thought of that. im not going to be doing these soon lol this is something a little ways away! lol and i thought i read that those brown smoothies get just over 3'? is that right or did i read it wrong?

[TANK0789]

and what shape? would rectangle be ok?

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

Correct - Brown Smoothies, on average, reach around 3' in length.

Obviously, if we're talking diameter, we're talking about a circular pool - not rectangular. ;)

[TANK0789]

i 15 foot holy **** thats alot! alot more then i thought we were talking!
so like a 500gallon tank wouldnt do for a brown smooth?

[val1]

http://www.aquariumfish.com/aquariumfish/detail.aspx?aid=9546&cid=3790&search=

Read this all about sharks, feeding, tank size and so on.

[reefergeorge]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12284961#post12284961 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by TANK0789
well just fish like sharks. umm very active fish and VERY aggressive fish with teeth lol

and which of the smoothhounds do well in aquariums

If that is what you want set up a fw tank, and put a African tiger fish in it.

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12285909#post12285909 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by TANK0789
i 15 foot holy **** thats alot! alot more then i thought we were talking!
so like a 500gallon tank wouldnt do for a brown smooth?

Use common sense here, dude. Picture a 3' active swimming shark in an 8' 500g tank.

[JustinReef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12286289#post12286289 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by reefergeorge
If that is what you want set up a fw tank, and put a African tiger fish in it.

Thats still a very big, 3' fish as an adult. Not really a better option than the sharks he is considering. Very cool looking fish though.

[JustinReef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12284983#post12284983 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by kjreiniger
For fish in a 55gal that would be compatible with a shark, you have a number of options. I had a 55 FOWLR setup for a year with:

Panther Grouper
Volitan Lion
Snowflake eel
Picasso Trigger
Maroon CLown
Yellow Tang

All of which were stable and healthy. Aside from the clown and tang, all should be compatible with the shark.

Are you kidding? How are you possibly keeping all these big fish in such a tiny tank??? I hope they are tiny and you already have a new home for thses guys. Wow. Bad advice to be giving someone new to the hobby who really wants to learn the right way to do things. This would be the wrong way!

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

I definitely agree, Justin. Not a good way to start someone off in SW tanks.

[TANK0789]

hey salt. how about a aquarium like yours? would that be ok?

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

What? The lagoon? It would be fine for a while, but nothings gonna change the fat that they need a 15-18' diameter (ROUND, NOT RECTANGULAR) pool for life, no matter how much someone argues.

P.S. Join www.sharkraycentral.com, they have infinite amounts of shark/ray info there just waiting to be read by people just getting into the shark/ray hobby, like yourself.

[spike78]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12292298#post12292298 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by TANK0789
hey salt. how about a aquarium like yours? would that be ok?

Tank, what part of the country do you live in?

[TANK0789]

i live in wisconsin spike

[TANK0789]

Minimum recommend tank/pond size for a Brown Smooth hound: While it is possible to keep pups in tanks or ponds of at least 500 gallons (6’ diameter or about 8’ x 4’x 2’) for the 1st 18-24 months. Adult brown smooth hounds require a pond of at least 1,200 gallons or (12' long x 5' wide x 3' deep) for a single adult. And at least 2,100 gallons or 15’ long x 6’ wide x 3’ deep for 2-3 adult brown smooth hounds.







so your 10x5x3 would be fine. thanks for the website!

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

Not so much. Notice how it says they can be kept in the 6' diameter pool for the first 18-24 months of their lives. Quit being ignorant and understand what you are reading.

[TANK0789]

dude you cant read! ignorant? no im sorry that i can read?

dult brown smooth hounds require a pond of at least 1,200 gallons or (12' long x 5' wide x 3' deep) for a single adult


or do i need to draw you a picture?

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

Then why did you say my 10' x 5' x 3' would work? What have I been TRYING to tell you this entire time?

[TANK0789]

ok w.e change of subject how are you getting that tank for 5g? from who or what? and what would ti cost for a 12x5x3

[spike78]

Here is my question: Where are you going to put this huge tank?

[TANK0789]

was thinking spare room. but this wouldnt be happening for a long time! and i have decised to go with a 360g 96x36x24 size tank. so what would be the best shark for that size? thanks

[spike78]

Here is a site that will give you some good information on that very question: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/sharks.htm

Try to stay realistic about the costs associated with this type of setup. You are probably looking at $7K-$10K just for equipment. Not to mention ~$1500 in substrates, the $30 weekly salt bill for water changes, heating and cooling costs, etc. etc. It's best to do all your homework first before going out and getting in over your head.

[TANK0789]

thanks bru

[TANK0789]

really that much 7-10k? plus 2k for the tank. dang didnt know it was that much..

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

Someone locally is gonna help me build it. It'll go in my basement.

For a 8' x 3' x 2' tank, you'd be ok with either a single Brownbanded Bamboo or Epaulette, or a pair of Coral Cats or Gray bamboos.

[DamnPepShrimp]

This is a little late in the subject, but a 220 is pointless to spend the extra money when a 180 will do the same job. The extra 6" of height is pretty much a waste with a shark tank. The foot print is the big issue.

Tank, this hobby is expensive! Stuff adds up quick and you don't even know it. When you get into big tanks and with sharks, it goes up exponentially!!! Think of the skimmer you'd have to have on a tank that size, not to mention all the plumbing, water movement, heating, electric bill running it all, it's insane! Good luck with your setup, just take your time and think things through, don't want to see you make mistakes and get discouraged and get out of the hobby. Maybe you should start with a small FOWLR tank just to get the hang of everything before attempting a shark, they are a lot pickier about water quality etc then most fish.

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

Yeah, glass/acrylic tanks are much more expensive than building a pond. Lets say you spend about 10K on your 360g, if you did a pond in that size, you'd probably end up spending about 3-4K MAX with the pond being ready to house livestock.

[scbauer]

Hey TANK0789, just out of curiosity, how old are you?

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

I'm curious, too.

[paveking1]

Yeah I'm a little curious also.

[reefergeorge]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12293433#post12293433 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by TheSaltwaterGuy
Yeah, glass/acrylic tanks are much more expensive than building a pond. Lets say you spend about 10K on your 360g, if you did a pond in that size, you'd probably end up spending about 3-4K MAX with the pond being ready to house livestock.

So you are saying that a 360 acrylic is six grand??
You will still need all the same equipment. Or am I missing something?

[spike78]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12293433#post12293433 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by TheSaltwaterGuy
Yeah, glass/acrylic tanks are much more expensive than building a pond. Lets say you spend about 10K on your 360g, if you did a pond in that size, you'd probably end up spending about 3-4K MAX with the pond being ready to house livestock.

Really? And where would you put this pond? Outside? In Wisconsin?

[Smokin Firebird]

i have a 300gal setup for a sting ray and a bamboo. i had close to 4k in filters, not incul. the tank which is custom made. i got into the hobby because of sharks and got my first shark 3 yrs into the hobby. still with that much time into the hobby i lost 2 sharks. having a shark tank is like having a full blown reef tank.

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

Funny, Mr. Sarcastic. My pond will go in the basement.

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12295341#post12295341 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by reefergeorge
So you are saying that a 360 acrylic is six grand??
You will still need all the same equipment. Or am I missing something?

I was making a point, the prices are probably way off. Glass/Acrylic tanks are usually much more expensive than building your own pond.

[JustinReef]

I have just ordered a new Acrylic tank (much smaller than the size being discussed here) that is 8'x2'x16" tall which is costing me $865. And that is a great price, so I would imagine that an acrylic tank of the size being discussed here would be like $2k easy. Probably more. Glass may be a little cheaper but probably not because once you get this big, it all gets very expensive. And this is if you can find a good tank builder who has good prices. I was quoted $1250 by another guy for my new tank. One place even told me it may be around $1500 but never actually gave me a real quote. So yes, the tank alone can cost around $2K and thats really one of the cheapest parts of a system this big!

[TANK0789]

im 19. but your pond is going in your basement?..im confused

ok well 360g is a little more than i wanna spend. what about a 180g? which sharks will do best in there? i think you said coral but are there any others?

[TANK0789]

justin what do you plan to put in your tank?

[TANK0789]

do you think a swell shark would be ok in your tank?

[Smokin Firebird]

180 gal tank is still 2 small for any shark.

[TANK0789]

o really? even the dimensions are almost the same? that its just shorter in height?


what are the bare miniumums for a shark tank now im talking dimensions not gallons.

[spike78]

Dude, If you were serious about actually doing this, you would do some independent research on your own. Until that time this whole thread is basically pointless. It's just not smart to go out and spend $5K on a marine setup based solely on what someone said on an internet forum. Take some time, do your own research, and reach a conclusion that meets your own morality. The fact that you continue to press for the absolute smallest tank you can put a shark in indicates to me that you're more concerned about "just getting a shark" rather than taking the time to actually understand how to effectively care for one for the term of it's life.

http://www.wetwebmedia.com/sharkslvgrm.htm

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

The MINIMUM dimensions for any shark would be about 7 x 3 x 2 IMO. And that is for the smallest of species. Same goes for rays.

[JM68]

this is the most rediculous thread i have ever read (well the one about the little flesh eating worms was worse) but none the less. i read the whole thing hoping it was going somewhere and it hasn't. i've pretty much seen the same 5 questions asked by the same person 30 times using different words. Bottom line is, as TheSaltwaterGuy has stated, you need a tank with a 7x3 footprint thats it. you shouldn't put any shark in anything smaller. And asking about it 5 more times won't get another answer, sorry for being so blunt about it, but its getting a little silly now.

[Charger21_SD]

I'd say a 180g would be good for a cortez ray if bought as small as possible and it would be comfortable in there for a few good years.

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12307110#post12307110 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by JM68
this is the most rediculous thread i have ever read (well the one about the little flesh eating worms was worse) but none the less. i read the whole thing hoping it was going somewhere and it hasn't. i've pretty much seen the same 5 questions asked by the same person 30 times using different words. Bottom line is, as TheSaltwaterGuy has stated, you need a tank with a 7x3 footprint thats it. you shouldn't put any shark in anything smaller. And asking about it 5 more times won't get another answer, sorry for being so blunt about it, but its getting a little silly now.

Thanks, man. Its nice to have a little back-up, especially in this thread.

[JustinReef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12307110#post12307110 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by JM68
this is the most rediculous thread i have ever read (well the one about the little flesh eating worms was worse) but none the less. i read the whole thing hoping it was going somewhere and it hasn't. i've pretty much seen the same 5 questions asked by the same person 30 times using different words. Bottom line is, as TheSaltwaterGuy has stated, you need a tank with a 7x3 footprint thats it. you shouldn't put any shark in anything smaller. And asking about it 5 more times won't get another answer, sorry for being so blunt about it, but its getting a little silly now.

The only thing that is ridiculous in this thread is your spelling and the fact that you decided to use your terrible spelling to write THE most pointless post in this thread...and its about how pointless you think the thread is! LOL.

He is new to the hobby and trying to learn. Thats a good thing.

[JustinReef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12299284#post12299284 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by TANK0789
justin what do you plan to put in your tank?

Its just a new bigger home for my 2 Puffers who are outgrowing their current 130G tank. Its just going to be them and about 20-30 Blue/Green Chromis.

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

Justin - I remember seeing pics of your tank with many species of macro algae. Can you name some of the species? I'm trying to add more color to my tank.

[JustinReef]

Its really just many types of Caulpera. Im not sure of all the names but it grows very fast. They do need iron dosing to stay happy and not go sexual...possibly killing off the tank. Heres a pic :D (sorry not trying to take over the thread):

http://i144.photobucket.com/albums/r179/Justinpsmith/Digi529.jpg

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

Is this the same tank that you had your Porc Puffer, Sleeper Goby, etc. in? You've added a lot of corals since I last saw it!

BTW - Thats a huge leather~

[JustinReef]

Yeah thats the same tank. Theres only a few corals but they are HUGE, so it looks like a bunch. I have to take this tank down though because Im moving in a week.

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

You planning on setting it back up or upgrading?

[JustinReef]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12310034#post12310034 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by TheSaltwaterGuy
You planning on setting it back up or upgrading?

Well I am having an 8' tank built but it will not be made for a little while, so I will put this one back up for now.

[hootie51]

Justin,
That sucks that you are having to take it down. I'm seriously thinking of nominating your tank for TOTM. It's so original and much different than the SPS dominated tanks that usually get TOTM (not that they aren't beautiful), but it would be nice to have a change. Definitely keep us posted while you're setting it back up, and on the progress of the new tank when it arrives!

[LukFox]

I know this is a bit off topic (even more off topic ha!), but I really love that clock! And did you paint those cardinals yourself? It goes without saying that the tank is beautiful (:!

[TANK0789]

why cant i find any 84'' or 7 foot lengths? its either 6 or 8.

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

Go check out www.glasscages.com for some aquariums.

We're not saying it has to be 7' long, we're saying thats the minimum. Go with an 8'er if you can.

[TANK0789]

so like 96x36x24? that would be good ?

and your saying a 96x30x24 wouldnt be ok? it has to be 36? for sure?

[paulamrein]

Just when the thread started getting interesting in the end, we start with this stuff again. I'd rather have seen it totally high jacked and you guys started posting about politics than some kid asking a thousand times of what is the minimum tank size for a shark is. Tank0789, I'm sure you really want to get in this hobby, and I'm sure you can succeed in this, but asking a question until you get the answer you want to hear is a bit much man, you will not like what you hear no matter how you ask it, you will not be able to keep a shark in any tank no matter the dimensions for ALOT longer than you will think. We are talking months before the tank will be stable enough to do anything to. Take the advice that quite a few people has already given you and leave it as that. Don't get me wrong, I don't want to discourage you from doing it. I would love it if everyone in the world were to get into the hobby in some level.
It's almost pointless but I'm going to give some advice, whether you hear it or not. Buy a very small tank, the cheapest you can find. 20g 30g if you already have the 55g use that. Buy atleast 60 lbs of rock, get a skimmer rated for that tank, get sand. Set it up, wait atleast a month, preferably 2. Than get one or two fish, Get some nemo clowns or damsels. Put those in the tank, wait a month, buy a slightly larger fish, ie, dwarf angel or wrasse. And put that in a tank.
And after all that keep them alive for 6 months. If you can accomplish that, than perhaps a shark is right for you, But be forewarned. Buying this initial equipment in and of itself will set you back some money. The tank is the CHEAPEST part of this hobby. Even more if you do a reef. Get some experience under your belt.
Take a weekend scrubbing your tank of algae, let yourself start pulling your hair out with a cyano bacteria bloom. Your fish will breakout with some kind of parasite or disease and that something will effect sharks, even more they are ALOT harder to treat. After that you can graduate to a shark. I would be SHOCKED if you can find someone on here who started out this hobby with a shark.
I've said nothing at all different from any one else on this thread. But you asked for advice, and it's been given over, and over, and over again. Take it, or leave it and save your money.

[paveking1]

Amen.

[val1]

I guess some people just don't get it. Hey Tank you might want to listen to these people they do have just a bit more experience than you and they are trying to save you a whole bunch of money and wasted time.
P.S. This is the last time I will be reading this thread as it seems to be going nowhere and is a complete waste of time and energy.

[TANK0789]

ok thanks. im sorry. lets start with the 55gallon. which kind of live rock? and which fish? also would it be possible for an eel in the 55g?

[TANK0789]

also for when the time is right i would really like a swell shark. if you guys think i would need something bigger for him please let me know. i am really excited for all this and i am a real impatient person. i apologize.

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

Swell Sharks get to about 40" long and are a cold water shark, needing temperatures of about 60-65 degrees. For these sharks, I'd recommend a tank of at LEAST 8' x 4' x 2'. Preferably bigger, around 10' x 5' x 2-3'.

These are a fairly easy shark to keep under the right circumstances. If you provide its needs, the shark will be healthy.

[schulace123]

for the love of all that is good and holy on earth leave the kid alone...ever one who says they have more experience then him was asking the same exact questions when they started out.

He is just excited and you guys are hosing him down...iagree he should be doing research online by himself but settle the f down.

[Fly 75]

It is sad to think a question about putting a shark in a 55gal tank gets 6 pages worth of responses and answers while other people who have done a ton of research, time, and money can only get a few responses answered. Oh well, I have to finish dripping my 8 yellow tangs and 10" emperor into my 74 reef.

[TANK0789]

idk where you get that from shark in 55gallon? but umm... ok? thank you saltwater tho.

[TANK0789]

ok i have just one last question and im sure im going to get yelled at but i feel it may be an ok question. is it ok to have a longer tank rather then wider? for ex. 130x24x24 rather then 96x36x25?

[Fly 75]

longer is better for more open water swimming fish like tangs. I like shorter tanks as well, your lighting will penetrate to the bottom (generally speaking)

[ckprax]

the width is so the shark can turn around. It would be difficult for a 3' shark to turn around in a 2' wide tank. So although I have no experience with sharks, I would say that 96" x 30" is better, 130" x 30" would be even better.

[schulace123]

wider is much for important ( depends on how long it is in the first place)...

If this is your first time in SW then it is prob just the best idea to get the tank and get some easy FOWLR fish...then once you get the feel for it get the shark...

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

The way I look at it is this, a good tank width for a shark should be about half the length of that particular tank. Therefore if you're doing a 10' 10" (130") tank, make your width about 4-5'. Also take into consideration the size of the shark. Picture a 3-4' shark trying to turn around in a 2'W tank.

[TANK0789]

ok thanks guys.

[2dawghouse]

JESUS, Just tell him to highjack his neighbors pool and throw a couple tons of salt in there and he has his aquarium.

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12327558#post12327558 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by 2dawghouse
JESUS, Just tell him to highjack his neighbors pool and throw a couple tons of salt in there and he has his aquarium.

Give the kid a break. I was asking the same things when I first got into the hobby. Now I realize that he's actually trying to learn, rather than trying to annoy the hell out of us and make us pull our hair out. :lol: So from now on, no more a**hole from me.

[2dawghouse]

My appologies, I will try and help anyone who asks for help, simply for the sake of their livestock, their time and maintenace, their money, and their aggrevation. And I think that you and many others have pointed him in the right direction. That shows compassion for fellow SW keepers.

[TANK0789]

hey salt. im trying to find info on the sweel shark. i have read some but not enough. do you know anything about them? are they active swimmers?

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12319428#post12319428 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by TheSaltwaterGuy
Swell Sharks get to about 40" long and are a cold water shark, needing temperatures of about 60-65 degrees. For these sharks, I'd recommend a tank of at LEAST 8' x 4' x 2'. Preferably bigger, around 10' x 5' x 2-3'.

These are a fairly easy shark to keep under the right circumstances. If you provide its needs, the shark will be healthy.

I imagine they're about as active as a Coral Catshark. More active than a Bamboo, less active than a Horn, if not the same activity level as the Horn.

[TANK0789]

awesome thanks salt.

[TANK0789]

http://cgi.ebay.com/500-gallon-fish-tank_W0QQitemZ280217922973QQihZ018QQcategoryZ20755QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem


I WANT IT!! :(

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

I wouldn't mind it either. :lol:

[TANK0789]

im going to watch it see if anyone bids. on it if not he maybe getting a message with a lower price request lol i live in wisconsin so its not too far away :) and my lil shark would be pretty happy in there when i would decide to get one

[TheSaltwaterGuy]

Yeah, you could keep a Brownbanded Bamboo in there for life. Get the tank if you get a chance, but just keep it shark free for about 6-12 months. Try to keep some fairly difficult fish species, if you can keep them alive for a long period of time, try a shark.