I was wondering...because they come in all different sizes..and they are really tough..and they are plastic..

i was thinking of getting one a 30 gallon...also if the trash can is deep enough can you run it through the winter?

I really need a answer..


thank u
Fc

Well, I am by no means and expert but since you want an answer, I'll give you my opinion.

I think a trash can does not have enough surface area to keep the water really well oxygenated. I don't know if extra filtration and airation would help (I imagine it would). But also, fish prefer to swim back and forth, not up and down, so I wouldn't think fish would be particularly happy in that environment (well, unless they were babies). Also, I do NOT think you would be safe leaving it outside during the winter. Unless you have a very good heater, I'm thinking no.

FC, I go through the local hardware store and eyeball those trash cans all the time, LOL. NO, they would not make suitable fish homes, BUT they make terrific filters for ponds. If you want something like the trash-can idea, go for a horse trough. They usually come in 100, 150 and 300 gallon sizes and offer a lot more surface area.

On stocking levels, I would suggest only fancies in the 100 or 150 gallon. You could stock comets and common tails in the 300. They really like to zip around, so they need the extra space. You can use a trash can to make a great, cheap Skippy Filter for the trough. See: www.skippysstuff.com for instructions on how to build a great mini bio-filter with a trash can, large flower pot, or something similar.

I agree about the surface area issue. If you are looking for something similar consider a large trough. I found one at a local hardware store (meant to be used on farms). They have them in many sizes but I got a 40 gallon. I hooked up a Rena XP3 to the back and made a nice little pond! I am overwintering it but I did add a 250w submersible heater. It keeps the temp in the upper 60s as I have a fancy in there. I wouldnt subject a common goldfish to the fluctuating temps though and would suggest adding the heater if you plan to keep it outside.

I found that even in summer my pond temp would fluctuate drastically between daytime and nighttime. I am planning to keep the heater in there year round.

Here are a couple pics so you can get an idea.

wow nice set ups...ok thought I would ask...

thanks for the replies....

I just thought of something..


Are barrel ponds just as bad?

Barrel ponds are fine, Fishcrazy - if you mean those half barrel types, not the whole barrel. Daniel has a beautiful one with some ryukin and plants in it. I'd go with a pond liner, just to be safe. You never know what kinds of chemicals are lurking in the wood.