Ive seen a hexagonal tank in a shop which would be ideal for my circumstances but its more tall than a big surface area if that makes sense or would a longer tank be more recommended?

The thing is i want a large one but i haven't got that much space in terms of length

So i ask the question, is a hexagonal tank equally as adequate as a rectangular one?

ta for any help in the near future

In general a longer one is recommended. The more surface area, the better--more oxygen exchange. Also goldfish tend to swim back and forth, not up and down.

However, let's say you have 3 fish. They may be better off in a 30 gallon hex (an airstone would help keep the water moving/oxygenation up) than a 10-15 gallon rectangular tank.

Any one else have an opinion on that? Please correct me if I'm wrong but it seems that is the info I've gathered from other posts.

A hexagonal tank could be equally adequate if it were of the same gallonage - but as Fantail pointed out -


I second that - but,


I agree, Fantail - I say go for more water. Even despite the type of GF you may have - because that is overall healthier for the fish.

Oxygenation can be maniputlated (by incresaing surface turbidity and/or adding more strong airstones/pumps - but dilution cannot be mimicked. If nitrAte levels start to rise, the only protection the fish will have until a water change is done, is the dilution - the more water, the less concentrated the toxin!

Some types of fancy GF will really thrive in a longer tank, like Ranchus and Lionheads, becuase they cannot swim UP very well - but, even with their limitations, the most important factor for their survival is GOOD water quality!

If that best be achieved by a larger hex. tank than a smaller rect. tank - then I would go for the hex. If I remember correctly, you have comets? They will take any space you give them!!!

It always best to do the best you can even if you cannot do what is best overall! When the time comes, you can get a rectangular tank - for now, do what you can.

awesome thanks, i'll go for the rectangular one ive seen if possible, thanks and i'll bear your comments in mind

No problem! And thanks, Graham, for your input.

Dico--hope you find a great tank!! Keep us posted on what you find.

As i mentioned in the water chemistry forum i bought a 60 litre tank but im wondering a few things, first is the electric cable meant to have water filling up around it in the filter and secondly should i put the water from my bowl in there also to get the cycle going...say if i syphon the bowl and put the waste in the tank to get the process started

although im scared of turning the filter on because of electricution