i have an empty tank. what shall i put in it?

[SheelaNeGig]

I had a goldfish thst died. I was v sad so haven't replaced him for ages but it might be time to dabble again.

Tank is hexagonal. No idea how many litres. Maybe 50 - 60.

I've only ever had goldfish but quite fancy something different.

Maybe get a heater?

What do you suggest?

[EauRouge]

Sorry about your goldfish, it's always sad when you lose one :(

50-60 litres is small but there are still plenty of fish you could keep in there. A heater will give you loads of choice.

Any idea what the pH and hardness of your water is? If it's extreme one way or the other then that will dictate fish choice.

Don't forget to do a fishless cycle before you put anything in there.

[SheelaNeGig]

Tis v hard. Liquid chalk. No idea of pH.

Will experiment and measure tank properly. Hang on.

[bureni]

Is the tank glass or plastic, if plastic be very careful when using a heater as they can damage the tank if they come into direct contact with the sides or base.

[SheelaNeGig]

I have measured. Its a bit smaller than i thought 46 liters (thereabout - i lost count in the middle).

Will start cycling it but what do you suggest i put in it?

I quite fancy a little shoal but suspect the tank is too wee. Would a single fish be better?

And should i branch out to warm water?

[EauRouge]

How about a Betta splendens (aka siamese fighting fish). They are easy enough to look after, very colourful and have great characters. He'll need a heater though.

[Grumpla]

I second that recommendation! And unlike Goldie's you can put a Betta in a planted tank and he will just perch adorably on the leaves to snooze, rather than eat / root out of the gravel every green thing within seconds!

[SheelaNeGig]

I had wondered about one of those.
Is that size ok?
I'll do some reading.

[EauRouge]

Yes, that size is fine for one betta, they are titchy little fish and lazy not very active so they don't need tons of space.