Here are some great stocking ideas for a 55 gallon fish tank: th-cam.com/video/7H8VFi6osKo/w-d-xo.html Here is a comparison between a 55 gallon and a 40 gallons breeder: th-cam.com/video/eFnh-gIZQL8/w-d-xo.html Here is a comparison between a 55 gallon and a 75 gallon fish tank: th-cam.com/video/R3fGDJ59yeU/w-d-xo.html Are fish tank kits worth the money: th-cam.com/video/xQu8Ki0NvmA/w-d-xo.html Also, our new shirts can be found at: www.primetimeaquatics.com/merch For the latest in the fish room check us out on Instagram primetime_aquatics
It's strange that more people don't preach that. I always recommend an aquarium size that starts at a common 29 gallon, anything less is harder to maintain.
@@DonaldDolph-ob8yv If you're dealing with smaller fish sure. I haven't had any fish that would be comfortable in a 10 gallon for at least a couple decades. I would still recommend a 29 for quarantine.
@@DonaldDolph-ob8yv Sure. What's your favorite species to have? Mine are Severums (South America). I've had all the "man made" ones and even some wild caught. Some of the "artificial" colors are stunning. They are near what I would call medium on an aggressive scale. A 55 gallon is the absolute minimum for these guys.
I love my 55 gallon tank!!!! Then my common pleco just kept growing. And growing. And growing!!!!! So I upgraded to a 125. Just for him. But I kept my 55 gallon and stocked it with Tiger Barbs (My absolute favorite fishes!!!!) and several bottom dwellers (Striped Rapheals and Synodontis and some smaller Plecos). But, if not for Percy (my common Pleco), I would still be happy with my 55 gallon. HOB filters are easy to maintain, fairly inexpensive (I also run 2 filters and 2 heaters) , and they just look fantastic!!!!! Enough room to do lots of stuff without the overwhelming task of getting into canisters or sumps. 55 gallons are my favorite size by FAR!!!! And like you stated, SO EASY to find parts for!!!!
My personal opinion is I’ve owned a 55” in the past, and just bought another, but I like them, and if it works for you, and that’s all the space you have, I say go for it!! That’s all I could afford anyway, just got the most recent one on a $1.00 per gallon sale at Pet Supply’s Plus.
I got a 55 last year and love it! The great thing is what fits on a 33 long for lids and lights will also fit on a 55 and 2 standard 20 lids will fit on a 55 or 33 long!
@@lancerguy3667 I would get s20 gallin long I dont like the high and get like 3 of them and have alot of difrent breeds of fish 1 tank tiger barbs 1 tank guppys 1 tank 1 goldfish
My 55 gallon was over $1000. But has a built in cabinet and highend finish. I love it. Had bigger tanks when I kept breeding discus but gave that up 5 plus years ago as so much work.
Got my 55g at petsmart for $100 with the filter, lids with leds , and a HOB filter. Made a stand out of pallets from my work for free. I do regret the 12.5" and like my 75g 16" but it was on sale so 🤷
🐠🐟. My fish-sense is this. My go to tank for a couple of decades primarily due to overall cost and location ( I’m former military hence I moved often and I was seldom home). I absolutely love it and it still has a place in my fishroom. But now I’m no longer concerned with constant moving or being away from home for long periods of time I prefer the the 75 gallon over the 55 gallon because it simply makes more sense for me. The 55 gallon and the 29 gallon tanks are great for first tanks or for someone who isn’t a serious fish keeper ( aquarist ). Many specialty fish, predatory fish and plants simply need that extra room the 75 offers over the 55. But a 55 although limited/restricted due to it’s dimensions can be set up in countless ways and stocked with very nice fish. For apartments that are on the 3-5 floor of well built building I would definitely get a 55 but nothing bigger. Or if my space was kinda tight then again I would go a 55 but other than that I prefer a 75.
55 is a very good display tank and you said it- the 12.5" from front to back is THE down side. As far as the filter goes, i went with 1 larger filter (instead of 2 smaller) but I put it right next to the center top bar in order to get a better flow throughout.
55 Gallon tank is great , i had one which went through different stages from fresh water to salt water to again back to fresh water , i had it for many years until i move , now i own a 20 Gl Shrimp tank full planted
@@90secondsofaviation86 .. There is always someone who want to buy a 55 , you can put an add in Facebook or your local Petstore I moved out of state so I had to sell mine couldn't take it with me.
@@90secondsofaviation86 .. Ask the petstore , some of those Papa's and Mama's store they will gladly take it in. Or you can even add it in the add selling the fish tank.
I live in Spain. I've got a 1 metre 55 gallon, deep tank, and I love it. The size is perfect it doesn't dominate the room, and it's really easy to maintain.
I think a 55 gallon is the perfect middle of the road tank, and possibly to me the best beginner sized tank. I’ve had a big colony of Mbuna cichlids in there and it was the perfect size to start out with. I’d say a 75-90 gallon would be the next best step up if you wanna do either peacocks and/or haps, or south American cichlids, but I feel 55 is perfect for 75% of fish to keep. Great video!
I have three tanks: 55 gallon, 10 gallon and 5.5 gallon and I love them all, especially the 55 gallon. I've had it since 1999 and I find it easy to maintain, clean and keep a variety of community fish safe and sound. I use an undergravel filter with two powerheads and have/had no issues. After 11 years of steady use, I tore them all down to clean up and at work at setting them all back up. I purchase a 55 gallon kit in 1999 and wouldn't advise against it. Except for some plastic plants which finally disintegrated the tank, stand an everything else is still going strong. Only had to replace one power head during that time. Highly recommend a 55 gallon tank in a kit.
It’s funny that you mentioned algae on the side with little water movement. In my 55g I have two sponge filters running on the same side, and that side is totally covered in algae. The side with little water movement you could practically eat off the glass it is so clean! My trumpet snails dig the algae though!
Sales on tanks at petmart are fantastic got a 75 gallon tank with stand for $350 all said and done i had the filter at home for the bigger upgrade from my 55 gallon. So glad i did so much more space for my cichlids. Got one top fin pro 150 on one side and two small 40 gallon hang on sponge filters for the other side and my fish are thriving total 17 african cichlids in my 75 gallon and they are doing fantastic.
Just picked up a free 55. I gotta say....my 75 looks massive compared to this. I'm very very glad I did my research before getting my main tank because 18 Inch depth makes the tank seem sooo much bigger then 12 inches on the 55
Just got a 55 gallon two weeks ago. Biggest tank I can fit in my home right now and definitely the biggest I could afford. Planning on doing a lot of tetras. 55 gals is may favorite middle of the road tank :)
I'm 6 feet tall, my 55 gallon tank with stand is perfect I love it since you mention about the filter system being on both sides I'm going to do that, I have a big one on the left side of the tank with double filter but I think that ain't enough, great video BTW 😊
My first aquarium was a 55 gallon. Love it. It's in our home front foyer and it's a good fit; whereas a 75 gallon would be a bit too wide for our application. Great video with many useful ideas. 👍📺
I totally agree. My first "big" tank was a 55g. They are great introductions I think to larger tanks. However, Having both 40's and 75's I would choose those over a 55 in almost every case.
A 55 is good for building mixed communities of medium to small fish. Although planting can be an issue. For example, a pair of keyhole cichlids along with some tetras, hatchet fish, and cory cats would be great in a 55. Basically, if you want to keep a community of small fish, who like to inhabit different levels, a 55 is a good and cheap way to do it.
I got my 55 tank second hand, she gave me double everything, 2 black lights, 2 white lights, 2 60 gallon filters. The only thing I had to buy was the fish, decor, and a heater. She saved me SO MUCH money.
I have a 55 gal with 3 gold fish and a pleco. It wasn't my choice in stock, but I took them from my friend who had them all in a 10 gallon for several years. I do wish I had put them in a 75 instead though, simply because with the tank upgrade the fish grew A LOT and now I feel like they need a bigger tank again 😂 fricken fish man I swear
@Neo Nick I know they're not typically meant to be kept together but they've been coexisting for over 10 years (6 years were before I got all of the fish from my friend) and they're all in a 75 gallon now. Nobody I know has the space or interest in having a huge pleco.
Wow. A lot of really negative comments about 55gal tanks in the comments. I have two of them, one tropical and one marine. Love them and would recommend to anyone. Always agree that you should buy as big as you can afford AND as big as will fit. But so negative on the 55, a bit confused as to why as had nothing but joy from mine
Nothing wrong with 55s. That's the first tank I thought of when I got back into the hobby 6 months ago. But then I saw the 90! Yeah, I got that one but, wow, the cost of getting everything from scratch! But I'm enjoying the hobby again at least.
I have a 55 gallon acrylic planted tank, which, of my 8 fish tanks, is my favorite. I have four 4’ aquariums that really show off the fish and plants, but don’t take up too much space in my tiny house.
I scored a used 55gal with lids, lights, and basic stand for $60. My husband added some stuff to the stand like a bottom shelf, a back to hide cords, and brackets to better secure the tank. A little paint and it’s gorgeous. I’d love a bigger tank but honestly this one works well for my space and was such a cheap set up so that influenced my decision the most. I just added plants and can’t wait to get it cycled for some fish. I do see a 75gal in my future now though.
I have a 55 gallon tank and find it fascinating for angel fish. They grow nice and big and the fins are almost the height of the tank. Top to bottom of the fins.
Those Geophagus Tapajos are looking sweet, Jason! Would love to see you do a species profile on the various types of Geophagus. Beautiful fish. Great channel!
Of course I love the 55 with the Geos you kept showing!! 😆😁 And I think a lot of us start out with the 20-25 gallon tanks, then quickly go to the 55s as we learn about more and bigger fish. From that experience, I always tell new or possible hobbyists to start with a 55 AT LEAST, and if the can even start with a 75 it would be even better! But those are "large" and intimidating tanks to new hobbyists😆. I love the footprints in my 75 gallon tanks. Like you said, it gives us more options!
Ya, it's hard to tell someone who has never been in the hobby to jump right into a 55 gallon and spend the money. If it winds up not being for them I feel bad after they spend all that money.
That's crazy I'm in the uk and could never get a 55 for that cheap it would be more like £500. Possibly 300 if I built my own stand . Very jealous lol .
@@allstarsalmeida im in eu and bought a used 150 + equipment + fish + decorations for 150. Don't know how long the tank will live tho, feel a bit iffy about it
As an older guy I remember when the 55 was the holy grail of tanks before the big tank craze. The viewing panel is nice and wide but as you pointed out the depth is only 12". Unless you have a fish room or live in a McMansion I think if you are dedicated to your aquarium/hobby but can only have one tank I think it comes down to footprint. I think the argument of which is better is kind of dumb to be honest. I would like to drive a corvette but don't have room for a third car in my garage. Is it better than what I am driving sure but like a bigger aquarium I, like many others, simply do not have the room. Love your channel, love the vid, you provide the best content. As always, thanks!
I have a 55 gallon and a 75gallon. my 55G is planted with neons tetras, ram cichlids, and angelfish. my 75g has 2 oscars , a green terror, and a electric blue dempsey. Of course going to upgrade it once i have the money. They all full sized and great condition.
I have a 55 gallon, 10 gallon, 20 gallon long & 5 gallon tank. Personally, the 55 gallon is my least favourite. It is way bigger than the other tanks, but it's dimensions are really hard to work with. I've tried aquascaping it a couple times, and it's surprisingly difficult to find tall pieces of wood that are shorter than 10" in width. Same with the rocks
My 60g cost around $513 to completely set up. Honestly I love huge tanks. Only thing that sucks is wet armpits! Lol. I think my 60g (profile picture) is a standard size, but I never knew how tall these large tanks really are!
I had a 55 gallon and upgraded a while back to a 75 gallon during a petco sale. I will never do a 55 again. The width I get with a 75 gallon makes its so much more worth it. In the 55 I was so limited to decor and plants when it came to adding dimension. In my 75 I can do wider pieces of rock, have a wider range of plants from smaller in front to larger in the back, and the fish just seemed overall healthier and happier. My 46 bow front even seems nicer for dimension than the 55 did even with the shorter length
I hope you’re doing well Jason. Great video as always. I have a nice pair of Apistogramma Cacatuoides that bred (10 are growing out!) in a 10 gallon now. I pulled a 55 with a stand and lids out of someone’s garbage here but the tank wasn’t good enough for water so I sold it to someone with a lizard and I have a 30 gallon on the stand. I’ve been going back and forth with whether or not to get two 20s or a 55. My largest is a 40 regular (36x12x21). I think I’m going to end up just going with two 20s. It’ll give me more options with moving my fish around as they spawn and rotating fish in and out of my main display tank. But man, pulling that tank off a guy who was moving’s property was worth it just for the lids. They can get SO expensive.
That is certainly something to think about. It's one of the reasons we have smaller tanks in our fish room - lots of stocking options and environments.
Think a 75 is just better tank unless you need a start up kit or looking for a larger tank on a budget or you have a 4 ft space and don't have a lot of depth apace available since the 55 has a depth of less than 13 inches. I do too much DIY projects for my aquariums anymore to fall in love with a 55 since I started getting into planted tanks
Can you dose CO2 in a 55 Gallon Aquarium successfully? I’ve had a 55 Gallon tank many years ago, but I had plants that didn’t need a dosing of CO2. I moved across the USA, so I sold my 58, 20 long, and my 10 gallon aquariums. I only passively dosed the 58 gallon aquarium. It went well. I was successful with my plants in all my aquariums. My 10 was a quarantine tank. My 20 long was my Neocaridina Shrimp tank and nursery tank, and my 58 was my Amazon Basin Fish tank. My plants were from Aquarium Coop and Dustin’s plants, both were good. Any advice would be helpful. I’ve been watching you for about 4 years now, so keep up the excellent videos. Thank you for sharing.
I have a deep 55 gallon tank and it is kinda hard to clean. I looked at a few of your other videos and I am getting a sponge filter now. Thanks for the tips and ideas.
It seems like a 55-gallon tank would be a great choice for someone who want to keep a large number of smaller fish. The fact that it's narrow front-to-back can even be an advantage for viewing and photographing small species.
What kind of fish is that at the 5:20 Mark? It is gorgeous!!I currently have 2 20 gallon tall an 1 10 gallon an a 5 gallon hospital tank. Love my fish.
The filtration is why I’m happy with the sump on my 75. Have the overflow in one corner and the return is in the middle but aimed at the opposite end from the overflow
Prime Time Aquatics the overflow is in the back left. The return is right in the middle but I put a 90* elbow on the bulkhead to aim to the right end of the tank, so I circles around the aquarium, creating a flow and not many dead spots
A 55 was my first “big” tank way back before Leif Ericksson discovered The America’s. Never again. It would be nice for angels, but I find the 12.5” width too limiting. I try to stay with at least a 18” width on any tank bigger than a 20L. I think the 40B for glass and 40R (36x15x18) for acrylic are the the perfect beginner tanks. On the other hand, my 180g (72x24x24) is too hard for me to clean the bottom... especially the back. Next time I’ll get the 135-only 20” tall. It doesn’t help that I am short.
Little bit conflicting information here. You said 55 wasn't deep enough but then mentioned a 33 long. They are the same depth. I prefer the more shallow tanks due to room sizes. Most fish swim length wise and not height. Price also is a factor. My 2 50g were less than my 33. And superior in quality. Over Christmas, Petsmart had a 55g kit for $149. It was hard to pass up for that price. But the 50 again was better overall quality. Think of it like a dog kennel. Does your fish have enough room to turn around? If not?!. You want a deeper or much larger tank. Great video as always. Thanks and keep em coming.
using craigs'list and offer up i have set up 2 used 55 gallons last year for about $300 including stands. love 55 it's my favorite for keeping small to medium size african cichlids.
I do really prefer the look of my 75g over my 55g... you're so right, it's the depth that makes it much more eye catching! would you put a 40g breeder on the bottom of a 55g stand, maybe adding some plywood so it is completely supported? the stand I have wasn't made quite right so you can't get the 55g in there!
Good question. I probably wouldn't try to put a 40B on the bottom, but a 33 long would look awesome! Same length and width, but shorter, which makes it perfect for the bottom of a double 55 stand!
I have a 55g with just 8 fish because they will get big. I have 2 blood parrots, 2 silver dollars, 2 acaras, 1 Jack Dempsey and one leaf fish. I do wish it was deeper. But it fits my living room...
It can be a very solid tank. You are going to spend more on either a 40 breeder or a 75 gallon. Just have to consider if it's worth it to spend more on the other options, especially given that you have to see if you are going to enjoy it and stick with it?
@@PrimeTimeAquatics Thanks for the response. I did end up spending about 300 cad on the "kit" which is a TopFin 55 Gallon Essentials. Just want to make sure I am starting off with the right gear, this hobby is wild. Thanks for all the videos, they are great material.
Don't even waste your time with the 55 and just go with the 75. I also have both like many here. Of course I bought the 55 over 20 years ago when I wasn't thinking things through like I would today about the topic. The extra depth of a 75 just makes the fish come out more and gives the fish more security. You could pick up a 75 with the real wood stand and decent light for around two hundred bucks. That's if you find the 50% off sale at various times at PetSmart!🤓😁 The 55 gallon kits are great for the money.😬
I treat my 55 like it's a twenty gallon with extra room in that I only stock fish that would be good in a 20. I currently have 25 tiger Barb and five kuhli loaches and they have adequate space to do their thing
I like that a 55 Gallon fits easily into the back seat of my Honda Accord. So that’s a no brained for me. If I ever need to move I don’t have to worry about finding where to put it. It’ll stay with me in MY car.
I got a 55g tank for 200 on sale at my local petco so not as cheap as other places but still happy and looking forward to getting the cycle started on this one. N btw enjoy your video all the way out here in the 808 state hawaii@PrimeTimeAquatics
It won't be long... I'm already eying space!🤣 I've had my hands full over the past two days I've ended up having to set up two more 5 gallon tanks... I ordered a koi betta and the guy was so nice he ended up sending me pair🤣 they are absolutely gorgeous. And my planted tank for the white skirt tetras had planaria so I'm waiting on medicine for it before I put them in it,they are living in a quarantine bucket for the moment! So say a prayer for me 🙏 I'm going to be using panacur c. From what I understand it won't hurt plants? So I'm going to treat the planted tank wait 48 hours do a water change and then monitor my water parameters before I add in the tetras and Cory's.. I've been watching all your videos and racking my brain for my old aquarium skills.. thank goodness is kind of like riding a bicycle 🤣🤣 only difference is there are lives at stake 🙏🙏🙏♥️
Great information, thank you! I just bought a used 55 gallon tank with stand for $100. They are both in great shape. I cleaned and spray painted the stand so it' looks great! I have a "small" problem. I set the tank on the stand and it seems the stand is "bowing" about 3mm in the middle (there is a small gap) which scares me a little. I am thinking of getting a piece of 5/8" plywood and adhering it (with countersunk bolts) drilled into the lengthwise angle piece for the tank to sit on top of. Do you think I would be good with this? Much appreciated for any advice!
I have a question I have a large dresser that I hold all my cloths in do you think that it will support a 55 gal or do u think I should further purchase a stand
I never trust furniture for anything over a 29 gallon. I've had 5 gallons of water on the floor before and that is A LOT! I can't imagine what 10 gallons or more would look like!
if u want a large tank for cheap its the 55 and they make great community tanks its according to space floor joints and fish u want i think all tanks have there negative and positive.
I always said that I would never have a 55 gallon but I’ve recently needed a tank to fit in my hallway with limited width. I’m now the happy owner of a 55 gallon 😂
Hey Jason, I have a 40 gallon breeder i'm using for a pair of convicts. I set it up 3 days ago but I am using already used filter media. Can I put the fish in or should I wait longer if so how long?
I just bought a couple of 40 gallon breeders over 55 because I wanted the bigger footprint for the fish I’m going to stock them with. I would probably go 55 over 75, for the simple reason that the 55’s are so much cheaper
I got some smaller turtles in a 29 gallon (a big box pet store sadly sold my daughter a turtle with a 10 gallon tank and all a la carte pieces leaving out UVB lighting, and more when they had a 10 gallon turtle kit on the shelf with all of it cheaper. For the price she could have bought their 29 gallon kit) picking up a 55 gallon tomorrow. My goal is 150 gallon in the the next run as my two turtles grow. That goes from a 12-13 wide tank to 18" then. So some reinvestment into tops, but the filters and the like should transfer fine. Studying a lot of these videos and I have the advantage that I was a zoology major, but never owned turtles.
Where i live most tanks this size are 100cmx45x45cm so basically the tank is 3 feet instead of 4. Does this help with aquascaping or the other problems related to the depth of the 55 gallon because the tank is deeper?
I bought a 55 for my first tank and brought it home and didn’t even put water in it and took it back to the store because it was so shallow on depth. I ended up buying a 54 gallon that has the dimensions of a 40 breeder, but is just a few inches taller.
Prime Time Aquatics I love it. It has that 18 inches of depth, but more swimming room and you can let some bigger plants really grow instead of trimming all the time. I love it
Here are some great stocking ideas for a 55 gallon fish tank: th-cam.com/video/7H8VFi6osKo/w-d-xo.html
Here is a comparison between a 55 gallon and a 40 gallons breeder: th-cam.com/video/eFnh-gIZQL8/w-d-xo.html
Here is a comparison between a 55 gallon and a 75 gallon fish tank: th-cam.com/video/R3fGDJ59yeU/w-d-xo.html
Are fish tank kits worth the money: th-cam.com/video/xQu8Ki0NvmA/w-d-xo.html
Also, our new shirts can be found at: www.primetimeaquatics.com/merch
For the latest in the fish room check us out on Instagram primetime_aquatics
can you do an update on your 125 Oscar tank. Are they still in the 125. Or did you have to move them in the 180
Can you do a video on how to paint or change the color of your aquarium decor.
@@branalexbk I'm surprised if you can paint decor, wouldn't that be bad for the fish?
I love big tanks also because they minimize the changes in the chemistry of the water. The bigger the tank the more stable it is. Love the vids
It's strange that more people don't preach that. I always recommend an aquarium size that starts at a common 29 gallon, anything less is harder to maintain.
@@NorthernMike The exception, IMHO, is the use of a 10 gallon quarantine tank. Most of the fish meds are measured on this size. 🙂
@@DonaldDolph-ob8yv If you're dealing with smaller fish sure. I haven't had any fish that would be comfortable in a 10 gallon for at least a couple decades. I would still recommend a 29 for quarantine.
@@NorthernMike True. TBH, I do have Nano fish. Yes, if you have larger fish then you would need a larger tank. Thanks for pointing that out! 👍
@@DonaldDolph-ob8yv Sure. What's your favorite species to have? Mine are Severums (South America). I've had all the "man made" ones and even some wild caught. Some of the "artificial" colors are stunning. They are near what I would call medium on an aggressive scale. A 55 gallon is the absolute minimum for these guys.
I love my 55 gallon tank!!!! Then my common pleco just kept growing. And growing. And growing!!!!! So I upgraded to a 125. Just for him. But I kept my 55 gallon and stocked it with Tiger Barbs (My absolute favorite fishes!!!!) and several bottom dwellers (Striped Rapheals and Synodontis and some smaller Plecos). But, if not for Percy (my common Pleco), I would still be happy with my 55 gallon. HOB filters are easy to maintain, fairly inexpensive (I also run 2 filters and 2 heaters) , and they just look fantastic!!!!! Enough room to do lots of stuff without the overwhelming task of getting into canisters or sumps. 55 gallons are my favorite size by FAR!!!! And like you stated, SO EASY to find parts for!!!!
It's crazy how fast and large common plecos can grow!
My personal opinion is I’ve owned a 55” in the past, and just bought another, but I like them, and if it works for you, and that’s all the space you have, I say go for it!! That’s all I could afford anyway, just got the most recent one on a $1.00 per gallon sale at Pet Supply’s Plus.
Agreed I prefer a 75 gallon the extra depth give you the ability to stock bigger fish.
Yes but some people can’t handle a 75 gallon
@@goodgrass864 wym?
@@goodgrass864How? Its the same thing but deeper. And price doesn't really matter if you just look for a deal on marketplace
I got a 55 last year and love it! The great thing is what fits on a 33 long for lids and lights will also fit on a 55 and 2 standard 20 lids will fit on a 55 or 33 long!
Who else doesn’t have a tank over 20 gallons but is still watching this?
My landlord was explicit that I couldn’t have a tank larger than 20 gallons. Still, a boy can dream
@@lancerguy3667 I would get s20 gallin long I dont like the high and get like 3 of them and have alot of difrent breeds of fish 1 tank tiger barbs 1 tank guppys 1 tank 1 goldfish
Me hopefully getting a 55 or 75 soon
Me but I’m thinking of setting up a 55,
Edit: actually my tank is 25 gallons
I started with a 20 gallon 50 years ago, now I have a 100 acrylic and others!! Lighten up!
My 55 gallon was over $1000. But has a built in cabinet and highend finish. I love it. Had bigger tanks when I kept breeding discus but gave that up 5 plus years ago as so much work.
Got my 55g at petsmart for $100 with the filter, lids with leds , and a HOB filter. Made a stand out of pallets from my work for free. I do regret the 12.5" and like my 75g 16" but it was on sale so 🤷
tom jo ME TOO!! I jumped on that sale quick!
🐠🐟. My fish-sense is this. My go to tank for a couple of decades primarily due to overall cost and location ( I’m former military hence I moved often and I was seldom home). I absolutely love it and it still has a place in my fishroom. But now I’m no longer concerned with constant moving or being away from home for long periods of time I prefer the the 75 gallon over the 55 gallon because it simply makes more sense for me. The 55 gallon and the 29 gallon tanks are great for first tanks or for someone who isn’t a serious fish keeper ( aquarist ). Many specialty fish, predatory fish and plants simply need that extra room the 75 offers over the 55. But a 55 although limited/restricted due to it’s dimensions can be set up in countless ways and stocked with very nice fish. For apartments that are on the 3-5 floor of well built building I would definitely get a 55 but nothing bigger. Or if my space was kinda tight then again I would go a 55 but other than that I prefer a 75.
55 is a very good display tank and you said it- the 12.5" from front to back is THE down side. As far as the filter goes, i went with 1 larger filter (instead of 2 smaller) but I put it right next to the center top bar in order to get a better flow throughout.
55 Gallon tank is great , i had one which went through different stages from fresh water to salt water to again back to
fresh water , i had it for many years until i move , now i own a 20 Gl Shrimp tank full planted
I´m gonna be moving soon away from my 55 gallon tank. What did you do with yours?
I have no idea what to do with it tho
@@90secondsofaviation86 ..
There is always someone who want to buy a 55 , you can put an add in Facebook or your local Petstore
I moved out of state so I had to sell mine couldn't take it with me.
@@Diosesdepapel what about the fish?
@@90secondsofaviation86 ..
Ask the petstore , some of those Papa's and Mama's store they will gladly take it in.
Or you can even add it in the add selling the fish tank.
I live in Spain. I've got a 1 metre 55 gallon, deep tank, and I love it. The size is perfect it doesn't dominate the room, and it's really easy to maintain.
That's a magnificent looking beard my friend 👍
I think a 55 gallon is the perfect middle of the road tank, and possibly to me the best beginner sized tank. I’ve had a big colony of Mbuna cichlids in there and it was the perfect size to start out with. I’d say a 75-90 gallon would be the next best step up if you wanna do either peacocks and/or haps, or south American cichlids, but I feel 55 is perfect for 75% of fish to keep. Great video!
Thanks for sharing!
Love your advise. I've had fish since 1970, and I still learn stuff from you
Thank you for being here!
I have three tanks: 55 gallon, 10 gallon and 5.5 gallon and I love them all, especially the 55 gallon. I've had it since 1999 and I find it easy to maintain, clean and keep a variety of community fish safe and sound. I use an undergravel filter with two powerheads and have/had no issues. After 11 years of steady use, I tore them all down to clean up and at work at setting them all back up. I purchase a 55 gallon kit in 1999 and wouldn't advise against it. Except for some plastic plants which finally disintegrated the tank, stand an everything else is still going strong. Only had to replace one power head during that time. Highly recommend a 55 gallon tank in a kit.
You are a very knowledgeable man!! I really appreciate these videos as I am looking to expand my tank myself
It’s funny that you mentioned algae on the side with little water movement. In my 55g I have two sponge filters running on the same side, and that side is totally covered in algae. The side with little water movement you could practically eat off the glass it is so clean! My trumpet snails dig the algae though!
Sales on tanks at petmart are fantastic got a 75 gallon tank with stand for $350 all said and done i had the filter at home for the bigger upgrade from my 55 gallon. So glad i did so much more space for my cichlids. Got one top fin pro 150 on one side and two small 40 gallon hang on sponge filters for the other side and my fish are thriving total 17 african cichlids in my 75 gallon and they are doing fantastic.
Just picked up a free 55.
I gotta say....my 75 looks massive compared to this. I'm very very glad I did my research before getting my main tank because 18 Inch depth makes the tank seem sooo much bigger then 12 inches on the 55
Just got a 55 gallon two weeks ago. Biggest tank I can fit in my home right now and definitely the biggest I could afford. Planning on doing a lot of tetras. 55 gals is may favorite middle of the road tank :)
Do you have recommendations for a stand ?
I'm 6 feet tall, my 55 gallon tank with stand is perfect I love it since you mention about the filter system being on both sides I'm going to do that, I have a big one on the left side of the tank with double filter but I think that ain't enough, great video BTW 😊
Absolutely fantastic information! Thank you! Subscribed.
Thanks for being here!
My first aquarium was a 55 gallon. Love it. It's in our home front foyer and it's a good fit; whereas a 75 gallon would be a bit too wide for our application. Great video with many useful ideas. 👍📺
I totally agree. My first "big" tank was a 55g. They are great introductions I think to larger tanks. However, Having both 40's and 75's I would choose those over a 55 in almost every case.
A 55 is good for building mixed communities of medium to small fish. Although planting can be an issue. For example, a pair of keyhole cichlids along with some tetras, hatchet fish, and cory cats would be great in a 55. Basically, if you want to keep a community of small fish, who like to inhabit different levels, a 55 is a good and cheap way to do it.
Amazing tip with the 2 smaller filters on each end.. Loved all the great tips you dont see on other channels !!!!!!
Thank you!
I got my 55 tank second hand, she gave me double everything, 2 black lights, 2 white lights, 2 60 gallon filters. The only thing I had to buy was the fish, decor, and a heater. She saved me SO MUCH money.
I have a 55 gal with 3 gold fish and a pleco. It wasn't my choice in stock, but I took them from my friend who had them all in a 10 gallon for several years. I do wish I had put them in a 75 instead though, simply because with the tank upgrade the fish grew A LOT and now I feel like they need a bigger tank again 😂 fricken fish man I swear
@Neo Nick I know they're not typically meant to be kept together but they've been coexisting for over 10 years (6 years were before I got all of the fish from my friend) and they're all in a 75 gallon now. Nobody I know has the space or interest in having a huge pleco.
Very informative video. Thank you for your expertise!
Wow. A lot of really negative comments about 55gal tanks in the comments. I have two of them, one tropical and one marine. Love them and would recommend to anyone. Always agree that you should buy as big as you can afford AND as big as will fit. But so negative on the 55, a bit confused as to why as had nothing but joy from mine
I think the 55s definitely have their place!
I love my 55, I have a mated pair of Angelfish and a couple of Bolivian Rams Cory cats snails and some neon tetras! It's stunning! 🐠
Nothing wrong with 55s. That's the first tank I thought of when I got back into the hobby 6 months ago. But then I saw the 90! Yeah, I got that one but, wow, the cost of getting everything from scratch! But I'm enjoying the hobby again at least.
I have a 55 gallon acrylic planted tank, which, of my 8 fish tanks, is my favorite. I have four 4’ aquariums that really show off the fish and plants, but don’t take up too much space in my tiny house.
Thanks for sharing!
I scored a used 55gal with lids, lights, and basic stand for $60. My husband added some stuff to the stand like a bottom shelf, a back to hide cords, and brackets to better secure the tank. A little paint and it’s gorgeous. I’d love a bigger tank but honestly this one works well for my space and was such a cheap set up so that influenced my decision the most. I just added plants and can’t wait to get it cycled for some fish. I do see a 75gal in my future now though.
For $60 that's a great deal!
I have a 55 gallon tank and find it fascinating for angel fish. They grow nice and big and the fins are almost the height of the tank. Top to bottom of the fins.
Ya, that height works well for them.
Those Geophagus Tapajos are looking sweet, Jason! Would love to see you do a species profile on the various types of Geophagus. Beautiful fish. Great channel!
I did one on the tapajos. Need to do more on the other species! :-)
@@PrimeTimeAquatics Please do. You have an excellent narrative voice and Geos are such a beautiful fish to own.
Lots of channels talk about this fish!
Of course I love the 55 with the Geos you kept showing!! 😆😁 And I think a lot of us start out with the 20-25 gallon tanks, then quickly go to the 55s as we learn about more and bigger fish. From that experience, I always tell new or possible hobbyists to start with a 55 AT LEAST, and if the can even start with a 75 it would be even better! But those are "large" and intimidating tanks to new hobbyists😆. I love the footprints in my 75 gallon tanks. Like you said, it gives us more options!
Ya, it's hard to tell someone who has never been in the hobby to jump right into a 55 gallon and spend the money. If it winds up not being for them I feel bad after they spend all that money.
That's crazy I'm in the uk and could never get a 55 for that cheap it would be more like £500. Possibly 300 if I built my own stand . Very jealous lol .
Wow, I didn't realize they were so expensive there!
Omg! Here in the US we can buy a 150 for like 600 with the stand.
I just bought I used 55 for 25$ 🤷♂️
@@allstarsalmeida that’s good but most people don’t want used ones.
@@allstarsalmeida im in eu and bought a used 150 + equipment + fish + decorations for 150. Don't know how long the tank will live tho, feel a bit iffy about it
Great information
Yes it is thanks! 55 gallons is great thanks
As an older guy I remember when the 55 was the holy grail of tanks before the big tank craze. The viewing panel is nice and wide but as you pointed out the depth is only 12". Unless you have a fish room or live in a McMansion I think if you are dedicated to your aquarium/hobby but can only have one tank I think it comes down to footprint. I think the argument of which is better is kind of dumb to be honest. I would like to drive a corvette but don't have room for a third car in my garage. Is it better than what I am driving sure but like a bigger aquarium I, like many others, simply do not have the room. Love your channel, love the vid, you provide the best content. As always, thanks!
Definitely - money, space and time all come into the picture.
I have a 55 gallon and a 75gallon. my 55G is planted with neons tetras, ram cichlids, and angelfish. my 75g has 2 oscars , a green terror, and a electric blue dempsey. Of course going to upgrade it once i have the money. They all full sized and great condition.
I have a 55 gallon, 10 gallon, 20 gallon long & 5 gallon tank. Personally, the 55 gallon is my least favourite. It is way bigger than the other tanks, but it's dimensions are really hard to work with. I've tried aquascaping it a couple times, and it's surprisingly difficult to find tall pieces of wood that are shorter than 10" in width. Same with the rocks
My 60g cost around $513 to completely set up. Honestly I love huge tanks. Only thing that sucks is wet armpits! Lol. I think my 60g (profile picture) is a standard size, but I never knew how tall these large tanks really are!
So true - I've had 60 gallon tanks in the past too - that height does make for wet arms!
Useful video, thanks
Thank you so much!
Thank you for this one, we were just having this discussion last night
Very cool! :-)
55 gallon tanks are best if you plan on stocking lots of smaller fish
Great tips!!
I had a 55 gallon and upgraded a while back to a 75 gallon during a petco sale. I will never do a 55 again. The width I get with a 75 gallon makes its so much more worth it. In the 55 I was so limited to decor and plants when it came to adding dimension. In my 75 I can do wider pieces of rock, have a wider range of plants from smaller in front to larger in the back, and the fish just seemed overall healthier and happier. My 46 bow front even seems nicer for dimension than the 55 did even with the shorter length
Can you please make more videos on aquarium combos of all sizes
It is on my list! :-)
I love the 55 for my 4 ranchus
I hope you’re doing well Jason. Great video as always. I have a nice pair of Apistogramma Cacatuoides that bred (10 are growing out!) in a 10 gallon now. I pulled a 55 with a stand and lids out of someone’s garbage here but the tank wasn’t good enough for water so I sold it to someone with a lizard and I have a 30 gallon on the stand. I’ve been going back and forth with whether or not to get two 20s or a 55. My largest is a 40 regular (36x12x21). I think I’m going to end up just going with two 20s. It’ll give me more options with moving my fish around as they spawn and rotating fish in and out of my main display tank. But man, pulling that tank off a guy who was moving’s property was worth it just for the lids. They can get SO expensive.
That is certainly something to think about. It's one of the reasons we have smaller tanks in our fish room - lots of stocking options and environments.
Think a 75 is just better tank unless you need a start up kit or looking for a larger tank on a budget or you have a 4 ft space and don't have a lot of depth apace available since the 55 has a depth of less than 13 inches. I do too much DIY projects for my aquariums anymore to fall in love with a 55 since I started getting into planted tanks
Can you dose CO2 in a 55 Gallon Aquarium successfully? I’ve had a 55 Gallon tank many years ago, but I had plants that didn’t need a dosing of CO2. I moved across the USA, so I sold my 58, 20 long, and my 10 gallon aquariums. I only passively dosed the 58 gallon aquarium. It went well. I was successful with my plants in all my aquariums. My 10 was a quarantine tank. My 20 long was my Neocaridina Shrimp tank and nursery tank, and my 58 was my Amazon Basin Fish tank. My plants were from Aquarium Coop and Dustin’s plants, both were good. Any advice would be helpful. I’ve been watching you for about 4 years now, so keep up the excellent videos. Thank you for sharing.
Definitely. Some people will put a small wave maker next to the CO2 diffuser to gently blow the CO2 across the tank. Thanks for being here!
I have a deep 55 gallon tank and it is kinda hard to clean. I looked at a few of your other videos and I am getting a sponge filter now. Thanks for the tips and ideas.
Cool - hope it works well for you!
I love love love ur videos
It seems like a 55-gallon tank would be a great choice for someone who want to keep a large number of smaller fish. The fact that it's narrow front-to-back can even be an advantage for viewing and photographing small species.
I agree!
I like my 75, but would also like a 55 For a location where less depth is actually preferable, like along a wall where there is a lot of traffic.
Like a hallway or narrow room. Yea. It's great.
What kind of fish is that at the 5:20 Mark? It is gorgeous!!I currently have 2 20 gallon tall an 1 10 gallon an a 5 gallon hospital tank. Love my fish.
That is Geophagus tapajos!
The filtration is why I’m happy with the sump on my 75. Have the overflow in one corner and the return is in the middle but aimed at the opposite end from the overflow
Very cool!
Prime Time Aquatics the overflow is in the back left. The return is right in the middle but I put a 90* elbow on the bulkhead to aim to the right end of the tank, so I circles around the aquarium, creating a flow and not many dead spots
A 55 was my first “big” tank way back before Leif Ericksson discovered The America’s. Never again. It would be nice for angels, but I find the 12.5” width too limiting. I try to stay with at least a 18” width on any tank bigger than a 20L. I think the 40B for glass and 40R (36x15x18) for acrylic are the the perfect beginner tanks. On the other hand, my 180g (72x24x24) is too hard for me to clean the bottom... especially the back. Next time I’ll get the 135-only 20” tall. It doesn’t help that I am short.
I hear you - cleaning my 4ft 150 gallon is a major pain!
Dang it. Now im convinced to get a 55. My husband has been saying this all along.
Glad I could help. Haha
I got a 55 but I plan to get a 75 with a stand but I only keep community nano fish. My largest fish is a dwarf gourami and some Molly's lol.
i have a solid oak tank for my 55 gallon which 6ft wide so i can work on the desk still. i have two angels, mollys, corry cats and mystery snails .
Little bit conflicting information here. You said 55 wasn't deep enough but then mentioned a 33 long. They are the same depth. I prefer the more shallow tanks due to room sizes. Most fish swim length wise and not height. Price also is a factor. My 2 50g were less than my 33. And superior in quality. Over Christmas, Petsmart had a 55g kit for $149. It was hard to pass up for that price. But the 50 again was better overall quality. Think of it like a dog kennel. Does your fish have enough room to turn around? If not?!. You want a deeper or much larger tank. Great video as always. Thanks and keep em coming.
Min 2:55 what are those cichlids I must have 😆...yours are. Beautiful ...
Geophagus tapajos!
using craigs'list and offer up i have set up 2 used 55 gallons last year for about $300 including stands. love 55 it's my favorite for keeping small to medium size african cichlids.
Very cool!
I do really prefer the look of my 75g over my 55g... you're so right, it's the depth that makes it much more eye catching! would you put a 40g breeder on the bottom of a 55g stand, maybe adding some plywood so it is completely supported? the stand I have wasn't made quite right so you can't get the 55g in there!
Good question. I probably wouldn't try to put a 40B on the bottom, but a 33 long would look awesome! Same length and width, but shorter, which makes it perfect for the bottom of a double 55 stand!
@@PrimeTimeAquatics thank you so much!! 😊
May I ask the name the fish in min 2:35
I have a 55g with just 8 fish because they will get big. I have 2 blood parrots, 2 silver dollars, 2 acaras, 1 Jack Dempsey and one leaf fish. I do wish it was deeper. But it fits my living room...
What type of fish is that at 4:52?
Msobo cichlid
Planning on getting a 50 gallon with similar dimensions just hoping it’s not too too big lol just upgrading for my Cory’s
I just picked up a 55g starter kit as my first tank, this video has me second guessing myself before I even unpack it ...
It can be a very solid tank. You are going to spend more on either a 40 breeder or a 75 gallon. Just have to consider if it's worth it to spend more on the other options, especially given that you have to see if you are going to enjoy it and stick with it?
@@PrimeTimeAquatics Thanks for the response. I did end up spending about 300 cad on the "kit" which is a TopFin 55 Gallon Essentials. Just want to make sure I am starting off with the right gear, this hobby is wild. Thanks for all the videos, they are great material.
What's the difference between a breeder tank and a regular tank?
Usually breeder tanks are wider and shorter.
@@PrimeTimeAquatics cool thanks
Could I mix one hang on the back and one sponge filter on the sides?
Sure!
Don't even waste your time with the 55 and just go with the 75. I also have both like many here. Of course I bought the 55 over 20 years ago when I wasn't thinking things through like I would today about the topic. The extra depth of a 75 just makes the fish come out more and gives the fish more security. You could pick up a 75 with the real wood stand and decent light for around two hundred bucks. That's if you find the 50% off sale at various times at PetSmart!🤓😁 The 55 gallon kits are great for the money.😬
Any advice on how to happily and safely convert my betta sorority from my 20 gal to my 55 gal tank.
I would add them all to the 55 at the same time. Sometimes moving them can create issues, but just hope for the best.
I think 55 gals are cool. Plus its the biggest tank i can fit in my room.
I treat my 55 like it's a twenty gallon with extra room in that I only stock fish that would be good in a 20. I currently have 25 tiger Barb and five kuhli loaches and they have adequate space to do their thing
Interesting thought!
Hello Jason, what do you think of the 60 gallon breeders that are starting to show up at Petco?
They look cool!
Another very informative video, but still can’t make my mind up what to get next 🤔
180 gallon? Haha
Might just have to 🤩
I like that a 55 Gallon fits easily into the back seat of my Honda Accord. So that’s a no brained for me. If I ever need to move I don’t have to worry about finding where to put it. It’ll stay with me in MY car.
What is your opinion on using an undergravel filtration system and a hang on back filter in a 55 gallon?
It can certainly be done. I don't use UGF because I keep too many fish that dig.
Dang i wished i got in this hobby sooner. A 55 gallon tank set up kit was 680 at my lcs
If it comes with a stand I could see that these days.
@PrimeTimeAquatics nope no stand just the tank filter, heater and other stuff to help u get set up
I got a 55g tank for 200 on sale at my local petco so not as cheap as other places but still happy and looking forward to getting the cycle started on this one. N btw enjoy your video all the way out here in the 808 state hawaii@PrimeTimeAquatics
It won't be long... I'm already eying space!🤣 I've had my hands full over the past two days I've ended up having to set up two more 5 gallon tanks... I ordered a koi betta and the guy was so nice he ended up sending me pair🤣 they are absolutely gorgeous. And my planted tank for the white skirt tetras had planaria so I'm waiting on medicine for it before I put them in it,they are living in a quarantine bucket for the moment! So say a prayer for me 🙏 I'm going to be using panacur c. From what I understand it won't hurt plants? So I'm going to treat the planted tank wait 48 hours do a water change and then monitor my water parameters before I add in the tetras and Cory's.. I've been watching all your videos and racking my brain for my old aquarium skills.. thank goodness is kind of like riding a bicycle 🤣🤣 only difference is there are lives at stake 🙏🙏🙏♥️
Ya, that panacur should kill them quickly and shouldn't hurt your plants! Very cool to hear things are coming along. :-)
Great information, thank you! I just bought a used 55 gallon tank with stand for $100. They are both in great shape. I cleaned and spray painted the stand so it' looks great! I have a "small" problem. I set the tank on the stand and it seems the stand is "bowing" about 3mm in the middle (there is a small gap) which scares me a little. I am thinking of getting a piece of 5/8" plywood and adhering it (with countersunk bolts) drilled into the lengthwise angle piece for the tank to sit on top of. Do you think I would be good with this? Much appreciated for any advice!
I have used shims before to help level the surface.
@@PrimeTimeAquatics so this is not uncommon with the larger tanks? 👍
I have a question I have a large dresser that I hold all my cloths in do you think that it will support a 55 gal or do u think I should further purchase a stand
I never trust furniture for anything over a 29 gallon. I've had 5 gallons of water on the floor before and that is A LOT! I can't imagine what 10 gallons or more would look like!
if u want a large tank for cheap its the 55 and they make great community tanks its according to space floor joints and fish u want i think all tanks have there negative and positive.
I always said that I would never have a 55 gallon but I’ve recently needed a tank to fit in my hallway with limited width. I’m now the happy owner of a 55 gallon 😂
They are good for that!
I’ve never heard of a 40 breeder. I love that idea as I’m short but they don’t come cheap as no kits in that size.
Ya, that’s the downside
55 gallon is the best all-around tank
Hey Jason, I have a 40 gallon breeder i'm using for a pair of convicts. I set it up 3 days ago but I am using already used filter media. Can I put the fish in or should I wait longer if so how long?
I usually add the fish right away if the media came from a cycled tank.
Can a 10 inch l001 live in a 55 gallon?
I just bought a couple of 40 gallon breeders over 55 because I wanted the bigger footprint for the fish I’m going to stock them with. I would probably go 55 over 75, for the simple reason that the 55’s are so much cheaper
Very cool! 40 breeders are hard to pass up. :-)
I got some smaller turtles in a 29 gallon (a big box pet store sadly sold my daughter a turtle with a 10 gallon tank and all a la carte pieces leaving out UVB lighting, and more when they had a 10 gallon turtle kit on the shelf with all of it cheaper. For the price she could have bought their 29 gallon kit) picking up a 55 gallon tomorrow. My goal is 150 gallon in the the next run as my two turtles grow. That goes from a 12-13 wide tank to 18" then. So some reinvestment into tops, but the filters and the like should transfer fine. Studying a lot of these videos and I have the advantage that I was a zoology major, but never owned turtles.
What filters do you recommend to run on a 55? I just got my 55 and want to run the double hang ones.
Seachem Tidal 55s or Marineland Pro 275s
Where i live most tanks this size are 100cmx45x45cm so basically the tank is 3 feet instead of 4. Does this help with aquascaping or the other problems related to the depth of the 55 gallon because the tank is deeper?
It should!
Is the 29 gallon good for a first timer?
Definitely
I bought a 55 for my first tank and brought it home and didn’t even put water in it and took it back to the store because it was so shallow on depth. I ended up buying a 54 gallon that has the dimensions of a 40 breeder, but is just a few inches taller.
Those 54s are interesting tanks!
Prime Time Aquatics I love it. It has that 18 inches of depth, but more swimming room and you can let some bigger plants really grow instead of trimming all the time. I love it
Is it ok to have 2 fans in a 55 gallon long tank?