I guess like most I didn't have a clue on keeping goldfish. I didn't realize GF needed the amount of room that they do. So I purchased, what I thought was a great tank... and Eclipse 12 gallon. Then I fell in love with the Orandas and put 5 little babies in it!! I came here for information on Orandas, and learned that I made a huge mistake. I know... I know.... and I feel horrible.

The problem is that I have no room for a larger tank at present. So putting on my thinking cap, I decided to move my loveseat out of the house and into my vacation home. I need a sofa there, and the love seat is the right size. But it is going to take a little time to do this. However, when I do it will free up an entire wall in the living room for a nice tank. I want to get a 55 or 75 gallon one. However, money is a concern right now as my husband just lost his job. He is looking for another and this is another step that needs to be addressed before a new tank.

I'm thinking of looking for a used set up. I want to get the whole thing.... tank, stand, filter everything. But I know nothing about what to look for. A friend of mine, who is a fish person suggested looking in the Penny Saver which is a local paper where people sell items. So here are my questions.

What do I look for? Tell me what would be ideal. What kind of filter? If you were looking for a used set up, what would you want? How much would you expect to pay? And any other advise you can offer would be appreciated.

I think for the next few months, until I can get all the other issues resolved, my babies will be ok in the little tank provided I do the daily 1/2 tank changes and make sure they get the best of nutrition. Will they be ok for a few months.... like until after the 1st of the year as long as I am dilegent with their care? Will they get stunted and not grow up once placed in the proper sized tank? I am so looking forward to seeing them grow into the huge magnificent fish I know they will be.

Point is.... I know I made a mistake, but I am looking to rectify it as best as I can. Any advise on looking for a used system will be appreciated. thanks...

You can get great deals buying used equipment. Usually for less than 1/2 what you would pay in the store. Some people just want to get rid of the stuff since it is bulky and if they are moving, they don't want to move a large aquarium.

What I would do, is shop around at some of your local stores and get an idea of what a 75 gallon set up is selling for in your area. That would give you a good idea of the value of various stands, filters, etc. Most larger stores have kits for an all-inclusive price.

When you see something advertised, you will then have an idea of whether it is a good buy or not.

Keep in mind that a filter should turn over 10x the water volume of whatever tank you chose. With a larger tank, you could be looking at a canister filter, but you can do a good job with larger power filters (particularly if you use more than one).

Good luck and please keep us posted

I know it's tough, but have you considered returning four of your five orandas? It'll be easier on the both of you if you can care for one with a 12-gallon rather than dealing with 5 of them producing ammonia at the same time.

I think this might be your best option, especially if you can't afford any extra equipment at the moment and your tank is not fully cycled yet.