Picking out a 12-20g tank

[lefty]

Since my LFS has an awful tank selection, I'll most likely be ordering a tank online. I plan on having a fish-only tank with 2-3 fish (two clownfish for sure). What are some good fish tanks of this size? Here are a few I have been looking at:
- 20g SeaClear Eclipse
- 12g Eclipse System 12
- 12g Nano Cube Aquarium
I need a smaller sized tank to fit in a dorm. But, I don't want a tank so small that the fish will not be happy. What are your thoughts on the tanks listed above? Also, do you know of a better tank to suit my needs? Thanks in advance!
-lefty

 

[chamic1]

well, if your living in a dorm, a small tank would be ideal. The bigger the tank, the easier it is to control water parameters. I would probably go with a 15 or 20 gallon tank. Try and think in the long-run. If your going to be in your dorm for more than a few years, I go bigger; however, if you're going to be staying a while, maybe smaller. I have an eclipse on a 29g. It look much better and conseals all of your cords, filter and lighting and gives the tank a nice finish. I would also suggest some Live rock so your clown have some stuff to swim around.

 

[lefty]

Thanks for the reply, chamic. So you think the 20 gallon SeaClear Eclipse is a good choice? That's about the only 20 gallon rectangular tank I can find online.
I was thinking about live rock, but it's really expensive. =/

 

[chamic1]

It's a good choice if you want a fish only tank, which you do, right? Check out how much LR is at your local live fish store. I buy mine for $9.10/lb Canadian funds. The LR really helps with water cycling because it is porous for benifical bacterial to be cultured in. Also check out some different prices and ask your lfs if they can order what you want at a reasonable price.

 

[chamic1]

I forget to tell you. This hobby is expensive. You will also need to buy a heater, salt, water (I doubt you can use your tap water) I recommend reverse osmosis/ Deionized, sand, filter pad, if you can get a eclipse hood with a biowheel--they REALLY help out a lot and some good bulbs. I'd say it is going to cost you about $200-300 dollars, again thats Can. funds.

 

[lefty]

Yep. I'll be content with a couple clownfish and perhaps a goby (although I've been told I need a 30 gallon tank before I add a goby). I'll also look into getting a hermit crab of some sort. I'm not sure if my LFS even has LR for sale, but I'll check next time I go. Thanks for all your help!
Oh, and about your most recent post, I've already figured everything out (supplies, expenses, etc.) except for the tank. I wasn't able to figure that one out on my own and decided to ask you intelligent people for some assistance. Thanks once again =)
-lefty