Having an outside fish tank in toowomba!

[alexc2005]

Hey guys,

So my friends mum is thinking about getting a fish tank and having it outside...

Now the issue i see with that is that sometimes it can get to 0 deg in tbar so having a fish tank outside would have a massive temperature diff.

SO i was just wondering if a couple of really good heaters would be enough to keep the temp safe or whether it was a pointless endevour.

Also what fish would be suitable for such a tank if it is possible?

Cheers

Alex

[LAJC2012]

I used to keep my 3 tier set up outside, I put pieces of polystyrene on the sides and back and also had a sheet of the foil roofing insulation across the back of the tanks, only had one heater in the sump and never had any problems with temp. I was living up near Maleny, and it used to get bloody cold up there too.

[alexc2005]

Since its wanted as a display tank she might want to keep the sides free of any covers, but can have lids on and all.

Do you think that would be a drama?

[mattstevens]

It would help to know the size of tank you intend on keeping?

[swamptrout]

i'd say aus natives would be your best bet for fish.

[alexc2005]

The tank is not for me its for a friends mum, but i suspect she intends for it to be at least 4 foot, but maybe up to 6 foot.

[damon_24]

Get ready for algae bloom if it's going outside. I have never seen a tank placed outside that does not have algae problems.

[chump]

we have goldfish , white cloads, pariadise fish and Australian natives all outside in tanks and bath tubs at Ipswich. 0 - 40 degrees temps with no problems. the goldfish are not as happy when it gets hot though.

Cheers

T

[alexc2005]

interesting guys, are there any other suggestions for outside fish?

Cheers for the replies

[mines bigger]

guppies, swordtails, mollies any live bearers with bristlenoses to try to control algae...even some natives like bass or barra they make a good display...

[alexc2005]

wat about discus, they are sweet looking fish (im guessing she would want pretty fish)

[karl]

discus need a real stable envoiroment, i would not recomend putting them outside,aus natives and goldfish will be your safest option,

[mattstevens]

A 300 watt Jager heater should be more then capable of keeping it warm. However, you have to take in to consideration that it will be running a lot and consequently using a lot of power.

[batters]

if you want pretty fish i would stick to platys, swordtails, guppys, mollies, or 3-spot gouramis(OR THIER COLOUR VARIENTS), mollies made it to the middle of winter here before karking it.

i would use two heaters so you have a back-up and only set them around 18oC over winter so your less likely to blow them up. get some bristlenose and plants to control the algae and make sure you have tight fitting lids.

if you can get the average minimum to 18oC or above in the middle of winter you should be able to stock most fish in thier.