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The Loach Forum Archives (2)
Iris, my odd-sized tanks.
Posted By: Martin Thoene <martin.thoene@lakenheath.af.mil> In Response To: Re: Iris, it's the SAME 44" tank as in the River-Tank article. (Iris)
Date: Thursday, 27 January 2000, at 1:07 p.m.
Conventionally in GB, our tanks are sized by dimension, not gallonage long/high as in the US.
Normally smaller sizes, of half-sensible sizes that is, start at 12"Wx12"H in 18", 24" lengths normally. Then they go 12"Wx15"H in 24", 36",48",60", and 72" length. About then, things get more complicated.........15"Wx18"H in 36", 48", 60", and 72" would be accepted norms.
Of course, you can get tanks manufactured in custom sizes to fit wherever and my 2 unconventional ones which are 18.5"Wx15"Hx40"L & 44"L respectively are obviously wonderfully suited to Loaches, having a good large floor and surface area.
I got them second-hand from my LFS when they were re-modelling, for (you're going to hate this!), 8 pounds the pair! Right place, right time.....what more can I say?
Most British tanks are glass/silicone structures, acrylic tanks are only just becoming available and are generally expensive.
What have I done to you? Expanded your horizons maybe? We can all dream of mega tanks..........I know of someone who's horizons for tank ownership might require scuba instruction to aid maintenance!
I would have thought a 6 foot Acrylic tank would (maybe) manageable for one. I can carry one of those tanks of mine, but my 22"Wx27"Hx39"L tank is beyond me because it's 10mm glass. You'll definitely need it delivered to an upper floor, but minor moves might be possible. Depends on you really, do you work out? Ultimately, moving tanks isn't so much a matter of sheer strength, but more a matter of common sense. For instance, I can lift the big tank a few inches, so moved it from floor to a 2" high sheet of styrofoam. I then tilted it and slid the styrofoam close to the 18" high table the tank was to stand on, rested the tank on a soft cloth to avoid scratching the table, then picked up the other end and slid the whole tank across into position, then removed the cloth.
Apart from the odd time you'll not be moving it a whole lot anyway. If you do need to move it get some friends round for a tank-moving party!
Martin.
