Here's a quick non-existent story that is about no tank in particular.
Having had a freshwater tank at home now for 7 years, and having embarked on the journey that is saltwater for 3 years, my 8 yr old son has naturally fallen in love with the hobby. He often explains to staff at LFS's what's going with our tank, why we shouldn't get certain species, what we're intending on doing with the tanks, how the chaeto benefits water chemistry, etc. He's become quite a wealth of knowledge in his own right.
Of course, now he wants his own tank. He's decided to start small so he wants the Fluval Ebi or Flora tank so he can keep some small fish, snails, and shrimp. Instead of launching headfirst into this, I decide this is a good time to teach him a little lesson in accounting. He thinks the tank costs $90 and that's it. Ah, time for the lesson. Heater ($15), Shrimp (4 for $19 (he wants 8)), Emblers (6 @ $4 each = $24), food, plants, decorations, etc. All told, the final estimate comes out to $225. He's only got $270 in his savings account.
So I ask the natural question.... "Are your really sure you want to spend almost all your money on this tank?"
His answer... "Yes, you're paying for half."
WHAT?!!! It was tough keeping a straight face. I gotta give him props for trying.
