Thanks alot for your advice, I think the idea of a close to
self-sufficient tank is very appealing! If you have any other advice
please do let me know.
dc wrote:
wrote in news:1153272019.706836.82680
@h48g2000cwc.googlegroups.com:

bad experience with them. I wanted something where she could have maybe
2 or three fish that would interact well and would be low maintenance.
I was thinking of getting a 5 gallon tank. If anyone can offer

5 gallons is quite small. Three fish is probably ideal for that amount of
space for a beginner. I would recommend three dwarf honey gouramis, one
small catfish or a few kuhli loaches, and lots of live plants. If you care
for the plants and don't overfeed the fish the tank will almost take care
of itself.

For equipment you could use: 1 small bio-wheel power filter; 1 good
fluorescent light; 1 heater if you can't maintain tropical temperatures
otherwise; and 1 small bag of plant substrate.

...add your plants, add one or your gouramis and a week or so later start
adding the rest of fish