5 Gallon Fish Tank Showdown! Fluval Spec vs Aquatop Pisces vs Standard Five Gallon

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Check out these Amazon affiliate links if you are interested in purchasing any of the tanks discussed in this video! Aquatop Pisces 5 Gallon Aquarium: amzn.to/2u2qB8D Fluval Spec V 5 Gallon Aquarium: amzn.to/39FFsoE If you want some stocking options for a 5 gallon fish tank check out this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rmqop4R3e9mrosU If you want a more detailed discussion of the pros and cons of a 5 gallon check out this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fny7g2qmncSUrQ Want to see how Joanna setup these tanks? Fluval Spec V Set up: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bKTTZXZsfNuCnZY Aquatop Pisces Set up: kzbin.info/www/bejne/b6qYkIZ5Ys6ppsU Pea Puffer Set up: kzbin.info/www/bejne/lafKn42sfZl0f6c

[@elizabethpolyak4522]

My favorite you tube couple...I love Mondays. Thanks for all the honest pros and cons. Very helpful video.

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Elizabeth Polyak so sweet, Elizabeth ☺️Thank you.

[@HeRo-qd6tk]

Good comparison that will apply to other sizes too. I wish we could see Joanna more as there are so few women on aqua-channels and it brings a different perspective. Thank you!!

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

HeRo Thank you - so nice! At least you’re stuck with me every Monday! 😃

[@lyrieth8833]

Piecing the tanks together has turned in to my favorite part. To be fair I am not a beginner. I was talking to my mom about a betta tank and for her I may just get her the aquatop I like how it looks and on top of that I have real evaporation issues in my house it is so dry in here so a glass well fitted lid is a must! Thanks for the info!

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Leah Downs Really? So you’re like Jason then. It must be fun to put together your own setup once you have the know-how. ☺️

[@ondreaculp1215]

I REALLY like you both doing these videos together. You all compliment each other & make me laugh!

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Thank you :-)

[@lifewithabiologist5471]

Marineland Portrait 5 Gallon is my favorite 5 gallon tank setup that I've tried 😊

[@lifewithabiologist5471]

As far as designer tanks go, that is. Nothing wrong with the basic tank that you can customize as that's part of the fun; but as an easy desk tank for a betta, the Marineland would be my recommendation for sure.

[@enteiraikou5845]

I also have the same tank that you have and I couldn’t agree more! I love my Marineland 5 Gallon tank and I’ve even changed the light that I bought cheap from Amazon with Full spectrum to grown my plants. My Betta loves it and I love the planted tank because it’s just so beautiful.

[@NWHSBL]

I was considering the Spec but this video changed my mind. I already have a Flex 9G and I love it, but I had not heard these complaints about the Spec. Going to check out Aquatop now! Thanks so much ❤️

[@josecatala5364]

Great Video, thanks for making it. I have all 3 of those tanks and would rank them as follows: AquaTop #1, Fluval, then the standard 5 Gallon. The first two just look a little better setup and the Aquatop really look nice. the higher quality of glass makes a difference. BTW, the internal filter you can remove the shelve at the bottom to remove the bio rings and replace it with what ever you want. If you tip the filter to the right, there is a 'sleeve' than you can pull up and the entire shelf will come up. I placed a sponge on the bottom and filled the top section with bio media. - Again great video

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Jose Catala nice to know! Thanks for the info ...🤔👍

[@lunerwerewolf]

Petsmart makes a standard 5.5 gallon kit for $60 including lid, filter, built-in LED lights thermometer, net exctera. It is frequently on sale for 49. And they also have a few deviatios of their stand kit

[@philbarrett2878]

Lol 5.5 gallon kit was the first tank I bought by saving my allowance and doing extra chores 40+ years ago. Lol thank goodness old habits are hard to break. Fun video guys!

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Phil Barrett No kidding! What a fun story! 😊

[@brandyrepsher8980]

I love watching your KZbin channel 😁 I love your wife and her delightful awkwardness just reminds me of myself. Was having a had day and started watching the 5 gallon showdown and instantly put a smile on my face. Love you Joanna, your personality brightened my day ❤️

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Thank you so much for watching! :-)

[@kimaparis]

Joanna has a really engaging and warm aura. ❤️

[@spotlightinspect5540]

I have the Aquatop set up as a shrimp tank and love it. I love the visibility and glass lid.I put a piece of filter bag netting over the intake grate to protect the shrimp and catch trash. I also put a prefilter inside on the pump and it slows the flow. I customized the filter compartment and use chemi pure green nano and the water is crystal clear.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Thank for sharing!

[@spike_4174]

For a 5g showdown, this is missing the Marineland 5g portrait. I would consider it top 3 of the most popular 5g aio kits.

[@lifewithabiologist5471]

This!! My favorite 5-gallon tank

[@papillonstudio6169]

I love mine! The thick glass and rounded edges make it superior to these others IMO

[@Gk22632]

For $60-$70 it’s definitely decent quality the only downside to it is that it has the surface area of like a 3gallon cube but it’s taller than a 3 gallon cube

[@kristenwinter8157]

I have a regular 5 gallon tank. I’m currently transferring the stuff to a 10 gallon. For me it was harder to clean or gravel vacuum. I have live plants, shrimp and a betta. I got detritus worms. I was scared to suck up the plant tabs but I did it and kept up with my water changes.

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Kristen Kearby Hi Kristen! yes - I find that I love the smaller tanks but harder to keep them clean especially with Jason’s mongo sized tools 😂

[@willwinn8559]

Semi frequent , small water changes helps but is somewhat stressful to some fish . Shrimp are very sensitive to water changes , temperature & ph are big deals .

[@BeastlyCar]

Love the video again. After years of fish keeping I'm finally starting to look into getting a wild betta. Keep up the great work you guys😁

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Ashton Modjeska love the wild bettas! Enjoy! 😊

[@xs8372]

PetSmart sells the standard 5.5 from top fin in kit form for about 30 dollars and when it’s on sale how I got it for 20 dollars. And it comes with a lid, lights filter, net and thermometer.

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

X S No kidding! That’s a great deal!! Hmmm....I could get a BUNCH of them for that price 🤩

[@sal9842]

Thanks this actually helped me figure out which 5 gallons I could like for a long time ... thanks so much really enjoyed this video.... so so helpful,,, that’s why I like your video so much 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍😍

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Good to hear!

[@joeyripswell]

love this channel i find myself constantly coming back to rewatch. ty! great content

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Thank you!

[@MiraSubieGirl]

I have the Fluval Spec 5gal and Flex 9gal. Both are sensational tanks, yeah that Spec lid annoys me a bit too. I just take it off as step 1 for any task 😅

[@Aspen567]

Thank you so much for making this! I was just comparing both of these on Amazon and google'd "Fluval Spec vs Aquatop Pisces" and this was the only thing out there! Great call on making the video, thanks guys!!

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching!

[@jonruger]

Honestly I’ve been super impressed with a lot of aquatop stuff lately

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Jon Ruger Yes, me too. 😊

[@AquaTopVideos]

Thank you Prime Time Aquatics!

[@lbox88]

I ended up with the Spec V as it's in a main area and it was really my wife's choice as it had to go with her decor, in my case it had to be white and rimless . I feel like the center opening is so that the light is never blocked by mineral deposits, and maybe the inner rim is structural since the plastic is thin and might warp from heat/humidity? I have had 3 different occasions now though of cherry shrimp jumping out when the lights spook them so it's definitely something to be concerned with depending on stocking.

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

lbox88 Yes, all excellent points! Thanks for taking the time. 😊

[@sharronmiller451]

Love your reviews!!

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Thank you!

[@mvvinds]

Fluval Spec 5 in intake adjustments on betta fins

[@n3bux]

i only have the fluval 5 and i really like how long it is. the main issue with it was the pump too strong and not good circulation inside the pump heater box. easily fixed by making some holes into the tube from the pump to lower the flow and have a water circulation inside that space. once i did that i have mo more mulch around the heater. lighting is very very good on this. i'm able to grow nice red plants with it.i would stay away from any curved glass aquariums. i have a fluval flex and i hate that distortion that brings

[@deborahjeanne2141]

n3bux hey - that’s a nice idea about holes in the rubber tube! I think I’ll try that when I do the next water change! I originally was going to use them for betta tanks but the outflow is way too strong, so I’m using them for fry/sick/ quarantine. You should see the way my baby guppies zoom to the other end of the tank when they get in front of the outflow valve! And you’re right - the water inside the heater box is significantly warmer than the rest of the tank. I don’t keep it in there anymore. I put the heater in front of the outflow for better heat distribution. I’m ready to pull the plastic pieces out and use a sponge filter. I do like the shape - it easily fits where other tanks won’t. I have 2 of them on bookcase shelves, 1 on the kitchen island.

[@deborahjeanne2141]

M Peterson which proves the point that fish really DO have different personalities, preferences, and feelings as much as any other animal on this earth!

[@deborahjeanne2141]

I want to thank you for the idea about putting holes in the tubing to slow down the flow. It worked like a charm! It still flows, but it’s so much easier on my little fish and shrimp - they aren’t blown around the tank like before. The other thing I did was take the heater out of that compartment. The water inside was significantly warmer than the rest of the tank and was also evaporating at a much faster rate, exposing my submersible heater. I put it right underneath the outflow valve so the heat is distributed throughout the tank more evenly. Thanks again. You made me and my fish much happier after those adjustments! 🥰 🦐 🐟

[@woodsmanwhitesmith6928]

DUDE ! some days i hate you , for the glorious magnificence of your beard. I'm 53 all my hair is still black and long , but i can't grow a beard worth crap. love the channel , you guys keep up the great work !

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Woodsman Whitesmith HAHAHA!! You are funny!! 😂😂 Regardless, I wish you luck in your endeavor !✨

[@markhunter2244]

Love the colours of Captain America 🤓

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Mark Hunter ✨🤩✨

[@stevenhogan3034]

Me too.

[@MikeDaVet]

Thinking of getting a Marineland 5gallon Portrait for a Betta and would have liked to see how it compared to these three

[@mrmarin708]

Missing the Aqeon 5 gallon rimless

[@loavesfishes6268]

Thanks for the great comparison! I have a marine land portrait 5 gallon kit, and I love it!

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Loaves & Fishes do you? I may have to give that one a shot too (love your name btw) 😊

[@pastorczo13]

As a minister your name is on point

[@loavesfishes6268]

Christopher Lorenzo are you a minister? Thank you!

[@Evil_Genius_888]

I'm late to this conversation.... LOL! I'm putting together a Waterbox Clear Mini 6 which is 22L or 5.8g. It's just a rimmless glass rectangle for $59. I'm adding an Oase Filtosmart Thermo 60 canister filter with the heater inside. I don't know what fish will go in here yet. Scarlet Badis, Betta, CPDs or Endlers.... I probably won't make up my mind until I hit up the fish store next weekend.

[@marcusmaracus]

Great video as always. Please just do a 'Partner Pet Peeves' vid... Joanne is hilarious, and your face is picture when she points stuff out lol. Keep up the good content :)

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Mark Little Thank you! That would be super fun - but would be a long video. 😆😆 🤣🤣haha!

[@eileenbowers6750]

What about the marineland 5 gallon portrait ? I'm thinking about getting it. Going by what you've been saying, I think it would be a win win for you two!

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I think Joanna was thinking about scaping one. :-)

[@eileenbowers6750]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics I broke down and bought the Aqueon 3 gallon triangle glass tank for one betta and a Chinese algae eater when the need arises. Can bettas be left solitary?

[@kevinbrown6769]

Very helpful. And there is also a swap coming up in Cherry Valley right outside of Rockford hope to see you there

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Kevin Brown oh! Thanks for the tip. ..way back when growing up, I used to go to that mall quite a bit. 😊

[@sassiii1]

You might have said this, but do you believe the Fluval spec filter is ok to use with a very small female betta?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Sure. We almost always wrap the return with sponge to cut down the flow for any all in one tank though.

[@willwinn8559]

These are great looking tanks 👍

[@ajoyrod]

I got a 5.5 gallon glass top fin kit for $30 on sale. Regular price is about $40. Comes with a plastic lid with LED light, HOB 5-10 gal adjustable filter, thermometer, & some extras that are pretty much useless to me because the food sample is for tropical fish (I have bettas), the water treatment sample is just a dechlorinator (my city water contains chloramine), & a small bottle for taking water samples to the store for testing (I have my own liquid testing kit).

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

$30 is a good price for a 5.5 gallon kit. Hope you enjoy it!

[@andystokes8702]

In the main I think that these tanks are aimed specifically at people new to the hobby who don't have an opinion regarding lights, filters, lids etc. For a first tank for a novice the idea of buying just the one item which includes everything they need to set up and get started they are ideal. I would go with the basic tank and then add my filter of choice which might vary depending on that I wanted the tank for. Likewise I would prefer to choose my own light and lid. Depending on what my plans were the Fluval or the Aquatop might be exactly what I was looking for.

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

andy stokes if I were a novice, the all in ones would have been a no brainer. 👍

[@SpiritAquatics]

I'm not a novice but I have two 5 gallons. One is set up with a betta, the other is empty at the moment. One is a ciano aqua 20 (only £25) 40x20x25cm comes with an internal filter and led lights in the lid.

[@Brantov]

Very nice video. Interesting betta. Very beautiful.

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Br Antov Thank you, he is just beautiful. 😊

[@lesliereynolds4486]

Aquatop might be my 1st choice maybe. I have the MarineLand 5 Gallon Portrait Glass LED Aquarium Kit ($59.00), and I love it!

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Leslie Reynolds Hi Leslie - do you love it? I just looked that one up...it may show up here someday 😊👍

[@lesliereynolds4486]

@@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497 Hi : ) Totally love it! And, was a lot of fun doing a natural looking aquascape with the height that it provides.

[@zackcuster3972]

Is the bottom of the aquatop actually plastic or is it glass with a plastic base?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I believe the bottom pane is glass.

[@zackcuster3972]

Thanks for the comparison. I might have to rehome some rili shrimp because my tetra decided they were tasty so Ive been looking at nano tanks. Have you had any experience with the penn plax 5 gallon?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I haven't used it?

[@maldrich77]

On the Aquatop, can you switch the placement of the bio rings and sponges for a better filtration system?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Yes, you can place them wherever you want.

[@leo2o915]

I’m now addicted to nano tanks now

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Woohoo!

[@leo2o915]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics can’t wait to add the crypts too it :) and debating which betta koi Nemo or koi galaxy what you guys think ?

[@SpiritAquatics]

I just bought a 5 gallon. The endlers with a betta look awesome. I might get a few and do the same.

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Spirit Thank you! It’s my favorite tank, by far. They all get along so well and compliment each other. ☺️

[@SpiritAquatics]

@@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497 how many endlers would you recommend with a betta?

[@SpiritAquatics]

@@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497 do bettas normally get along with endlers?

[@bbhurst65]

Great video! Perhaps you’ve answered this already, but could you describe what type of sponge you put over the output valve? I put a little sponge piece inside the valve, but Aquatop advised I not do that. The flow is too strong for my Betta, what keeps the sponge on the outside in place? Is it a large piece? My pet store did not have any advice! Thank you.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

We cut out a piece of sponge from an old sponge filter. It has been working well.

[@russian244]

I just set up a paludarium in my spec 5 gallon. Having never used the aquatop tank I can’t say but I have many more complaints about the spec lol. I’ve been way more into shallow tank lately. That being said the dimensions of the spec give you options for creating a really nice aquascape.

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Unrau Aquatics ooooh - a paludarium? I can’t WAIT to do one! I also love the shallower tanks. I’m still kicking myself for not getting one once that looked like a mini lowboy .. it was only about 2.5-3 gallons. 🤩 Anyway - thanks for the comment 😊

[@russian244]

Mrs Prime Time Aquatics I bought a uns 45s and onf flat nano and soon owned 3. Really like the concept of big floor plan but low volume. Been very interesting playing with scapes that leave the confines of the tank. 👍🏻

[@susienielsen8318]

Hi you have some purple stones or what it is, in the second aquarium. it's stones ? I will like to know where I can buy it ?

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Susie Nielsen hi Susie! That stone is called Sodalite blue - I got the majority from Aquatics Unlimited just outside of Milwaukee. Isn’t it just beautiful! 🤩💙

[@susienielsen8318]

@@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497 yes they are very very beautiful. Thank you for your answer

[@TonyG737]

Hi really interesting video. Just setting up my first aquarium bought 30cm/30cm/30cm glass 8mm thick. But have loved to be able to get the filter/heater/light I really want. Also I recommend looking for perspect lid supplier on eBay I found one & had 8mm thick 31cm by 27cm for £6.50 in UK And fits great on top leaving room for filter & light. Thanks for your inspiration over the last few months. Tony.

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Anthony Garner Hi Anthony - thanks for the info! 😊😊

[@leo2o915]

So help it’s way too much for greedo did the sponge thing but anything else I can do like switch pumps or something else

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

As long as the sponge over the intake is closed on all ends it should slow the flow down significantly?

[@leo2o915]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics yeah it worked :) he was mad for a bit since I added him to that tank with so much flow. thanks but can we switch out the pump to something slower ?

[@theadamkirsch]

I've seen other videos for the Fluval Spec V and they show the pump can be adjusted for flow. Did you find the lowest setting to still be too strong?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Ya - it’s still pretty strong.

[@tinamoser2340]

Is the Aquatop or the Fluval quieter?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

They are the same. Maybe the Fluval is slightly more quiet?

[@duncandonuts5268]

I see you have a couple pea puffers in the 5.5. Do you think I could fit 3 of them in a 9 gallon Fluval Flex? I was looking for something a little nicer without a glass lid to show all condensation. The Flex was pretty much all there was.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

They did ok for a while, but we eventually moved them into a 12 gallon long and that worked out better.

[@catfishcave379]

What I learned... I’ll stick to 20L, 40B, and Jason is around due to a technicality... do I see a “I’m just a technicality “ t-shirt in the future???

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Catfish Cave omg that’s funny. Just a hunch that he wouldn’t wear it 😂

[@tinajones7988]

Help I bought this tank a month ago. I did the frequent water changes that is required in my tank still looks like milk

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I usually start with testing ammonia, nitrites and nitrates. If they are high it can contribute to cloudy water.

[@threelynk4313]

Question if you know about flowerhorns can they have substrate in there tank?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

They can, but they often dig so much they just make mounds of it all over the tank. : -)

[@janmargelowskyakacrittermo1101]

Love your videos! Personally, I really dislike the Fluval Spec. I have NEVER been able to get clear water in that tank, no matter what I did. Maybe I got a defective one? Even with only one Betta in it and switching to sponge filters. I finally upgraded to a "standard" 10 gallon and threw the Fluval away (kept the light though!)

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Janet Margelowsky interesting! Hmmm 🤔 I’ve noticed a lot of algae buildup in mine. Maybe coincidence.

[@janmargelowskyakacrittermo1101]

@@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497 I had the algae issue too, like over night, water and walls were green! I can't figure it out, so I gave up. lol

[@bettatimestories807]

King of DIY had the older Spec V version, with the less powerful light, got it for his daughter, but only had it running for about a year before they gave up on it b/c of algae problems. I've got a used one not yet setup, and a new one which I've had running for over 6 months. Have some brown diatoms again, which is a bit of a surprise, will have to rejigger the lighting schedule, and see if I'm running a nutrient deficiency or something. I do find the circulation on the tank to be weird, too.

[@davidanderton2437]

Be great if you added standard international units wherever you talk about sizes or temps.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

You're probably right. I wish we were on that system too.

[@meggrotte4760]

Hi I know this is completely off the topic but I just have to shout to the rooftops I finally figure it out what's killing my fish and plants for the last 3 years. I've probably gone through 60 betas only six have survived healthy and lived for 2 years male and female. I live in a foreign country and the way they treat betas they put them in a small like flower jar or something like a round bowl that you can easily move so they take the fish out and they change the water every 3 days so their fish isn't dying from ammonia poisoning or something like that plus they put water conditioner in and they live very healthy I mean they look vibrant colorful active swimming So I get into the hobby and I compare the US versus Taiwan and so I try to go in the middle you know maybe 2 gallon tanks the biggest one I have now is a 6 gallon tank and no one bothered to tell me I should go for a natural look. So I buy API water conditioner I get the best foods I can find Frozen blood worms everything and thankfully in Taiwan all we have are live plants we don't have silk plates and we do have beautiful small pieces of hardscaping now you can get a large ones but I don't like large scaping taking up my tank space I want my fish to have room to swim so I discovered that taiwan's water anywhere in Taiwan actually has a low PH that's why when I stick my hand into adjust the plants it felt like my hand was on fire and I can't I couldn't figure it out cuz I had never had that kind of experience with fish because I was doing you know probably two to three water changes a week because that's what they told me to do in Taiwan but they never mentioned you do this because of the low Lo and behold I find out that if you add coral into your filter it actually stabilizes your pH I have now three healthy tanks already established filter media and freshly rinsed Coral thoroughly and within 2 days my water is normal I have one fish she's a beautiful little female I think she's going to survive she's in my six gallon tank and my other two tanks they're probably about 2 gallons the landlord said I couldn't have any more fish I used to have like 10 tanks and I still have most of them I kept them for anyone who doesn't know why their fish is dying and all their plants are dying it's probably your pH Now you could actually put the crushed coral into a small net but at the time I just had money to buy the crushed Coral so I just stick it in the filter underneath the biomedia but it works quite fine and the waters awesome so I just wanted to share this because it's been so disappointing over the last 3 years. I think now I could have something more than just a newbius living in my tanks I've got a KZbin channel if you just would like to take a look at my first planted tank that's natural and has no weirdness in it feel free to take a look it's called welcome to the wild

[@kevinharwood8862]

How did you get the pea puffers to get on so well. I have a pea puffer in a 7 gallon on its own and it looks so empty any ideas please

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I think they might be a pair.

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Kevin Harwood when I got them a couple years ago, there were 3. One died right away. These two have always gotten along really well, they even take turns being the boss. Mine generally like to stay along the bottom around the rocks and plants, not cover a whole lot of territory. 😊 So your little guy might like some stuff to swim around and through? Good luck!

[@connie6705]

Hello! Thank you for doing this comparison! I know this video is a year old but I just came across it recently. I’m at the moment trying to decide between these two aquariums. I have a question. Do you have a heater recommendation for the Aquatop Pisces? I’m leaning towards this aquarium but concerned what heater will fit. I’m looking to keep the temp from fluctuating with room temp, keeping a steady temp of around 73- 74 degrees.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

We usually just use the cheap nano heaters from petsmart. They usually last a couple years before they break down. They will also fit neatly in the filter compartment.

[@connie6705]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics thank you for the quick reply! Are those the kind that are preset? If so, I was looking to keep a lower temp then the average 78 degrees that I believe those are preset to. It would be very helpful to get dimensions of the heater compartment if you would please. Edit: I found a small one in my endless searching that has adjustable temp that is 2.9 x 2.7”. Think it would work?

[@Botzz28]

anything that competes with the fluval 5 gallon ? looking to do a little pico saltwater tank

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I think the Aquatop is probably the closest.

[@ChelseaMarie0917]

What fish are in your aquatop with the betta? looking to set up a similar tank :)

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

We had some endlers in there with a betta, but they were too energetic for the betta so we removed them. Ember tetras might work.

[@pixelmountainstudios]

Big Bang Theory meets a 5-gallon challenge.

[@stevenhogan3034]

Hi, I bought Aquatop Pisces tank from Amazon. I added a Fluval prefilter sponge to the outflow nozzle. Is that alright to do?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Ya, we use sponge to slow down the water coming out too!

[@stevenhogan3034]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics Thanks

[@enteiraikou5845]

Can you also do a review of the Marineland 5Gallon tanks? Either the Portrait or the Contour please?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I will add it to the list!

[@enteiraikou5845]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics Awesome!! Thank you so much!!

[@MS-vn2pb]

Wiscansin?

[@cmichalski420]

dude im diggin the beard were is primetime aquatics located?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Charles Michalski thanks man. Chicagoland area. We don’t have a store - just sell fish occasionally at local swaps and auctions.

[@SK-sq5bk]

I could see that In one of the tanks there was a betta fish with guppies. Could i do a betta with other fish in a 5 gallon tank and is there any way I need to set up the tank to do that

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I give the fish hiding places. Endlers and bettas seem to work better.

[@SK-sq5bk]

Prime Time Aquatics thanks

[@bettatimestories807]

I would recommend a 10 gallon if you want guppies in with a betta, especially if you are a beginner fish/betta keeper, and lots of ways to break line of sight. Guppies can be nippy with longer finned bettas (even with each other they can be nasty). Guppies also need the length of the 10 gallon because they are quite active swimmers.

[@emeryz10]

She is very argumentative.

[@Trains-With-Shane]

I think I would rank these the same as well although the Aquatop and standard glass tank would be hard to pick from. Mostly due to me having my favorite filter and heating solutions for something like that standard tank. Downside being that it's not as attractive as far as being void of clutter. I would love to see you guys do a 2.5-3gal showdown.

[@deborahjeanne2141]

I have 3 of the Fluvals and I hate them. I wanted them for a sick/quarantine, delivery/nursery, and have had guppy fry sucked into the filter area and it’s taken hours to get them out. I’ve put screened moss in front of the slats but it still happens. I bought a very small net 1.75x2” , had to use pliers to squeeze it smaller to maneuver the net. Tried removing the black plastic without success. Outflow is too strong, for me, using filter floss to slow it down makes it too slow. Also lost a fish that jumped out. Any suggestions on how to remove the filter/heater compartments?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

That would be tough to do - the plastic piece is siliconed in, but it can be removed.

[@deborahjeanne2141]

Prime Time Aquatics I started breaking down one of them. Will try using a utility knife. If it works, I’ll do the same with the other 2 when I move the fry to the big tank. I can use sponge filters instead and will put a sheet of parchment paper over the opening in the top. Should have just bought one to test drive - still learning - beginners mistake!

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Deborah Jeanne Hi Deborah, that stinks! ☹️

[@deborahjeanne2141]

Mrs Prime Time Aquatics I know, right? But I’m learning, from great people like you, Jason, KG Tropicals, Cory, who care enough to share your time, knowledge, experience, and expertise to share with those of us who don’t have all that - yet. It really means a lot that you’re all willing to make these great videos that give the rest of us good information and point us in the right direction so we can do the best for our fish. Six months ago when I first got into this, I really made a lot of mistakes- mostly based on my impatient personality. I’ve learned the hard way you can’t rush fish, no matter how excited you may be about wanting everything all at once. I save the videos to a playlist so I can refer back - it’s like taking an online course! Thank you again!

[@njah04]

Hi guys, new to keeping and have been enjoying watching your videos, they are great fun and a massive help. Slightly off topic but I have just got a 125ltr tank and am currently in a fishless cycle. The tank wasn't new and came with 3 internal filters. I want to keep tetras and Danios in the tank but need to make the filters safe (Ocean Free Hydra 40, AquaEl asap filter 700, Boye SP-602E). Can you guys, or any pf your followers, recommend a guide I can follow to make them safe. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I'm not familiar with those filters. You just want to make sure you have nitrate registering in the water and zero ammonia and nitrite.

[@sonhuynh8222]

Thinking of getting a baby Fahaka puffer that’s about 2” big. Will tank be big enough ?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I haven't kept them, but I know they need a huge tank! Like 300 gallons is a good place to start. :-)

[@sonhuynh8222]

Prime Time Aquatics 300? For a fish that’s only 2” big ? They will grow to about a 16” but that’s years and years away.

[@satanthesk8bum]

I have a dragon type betta that hates big tanks ive spent around 3 and a half to 4 hundred bucks on dident tanks and set ups he really only seems happy in a cheap 2.5 gallon topfin hexagon tank by himself he kill anything no matter the size so he stays by himself what would you recommend for a bigger tank for a stubborn killer betta

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I would keep him in the 2.5 and not worry about it.

[@satanthesk8bum]

@@PrimeTimeAquatics alright

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Agreed - a lot of my fish prefer smaller spaces - like my pea puffers! But for my bettas I’m so excited - working on a video where I match their personalities to certain tank characteristics ✨

[@satanthesk8bum]

Quick question my local stores sell small 3 inch koi i got one that lived for a few days in my 125 gallon slider turtle tank before they ate him can i get one and let it grow in my 16 then 30 gallon tank before i put it in the turtle tank so it has time to grown fast enough

[@bettatimestories807]

@@satanthesk8bum I would avoid putting fish and turtles together at all, even if the koi gets big before you move, its fins are likely to get nipped (and koi are pond fish, not suitable for aquariums, they can grow to 3 feet, sometimes more!). Plus they are both really, really messy species that make a mess eating and pooping and even just breathing, you'll be hard-pressed to keep up with the cleanup. But if you still insist, then yes, growing it out in bigger & bigger tanks would be the way to do it, but I'd start with the 30 for a while, because goldfish & koi release hormones which will stunt their growth if kept in too small a tank, compromising their health and lifespan, and even a 3" koi will need the 30 gallon in a few months.

[@s.d.k874]

Cap is looking for shade 1:41 more hiding spots should be included betta don't like high lights

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

S .D.K Yes, I agree! Spoiler - I’m in the process of revamping all my betta tanks with not only tall and more lush plantings but their personalities in mind. 😊

[@MotörheadMickey]

@@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497 Oh my gosh, I'm glad you said because all along I was thinking "thise tanks are too bare for bettas" but I wasnt going to comment because a) you obviously know this and b) I'd never hate on you two. My betta tank, I kid you not, is a jungle. I took inspiration from Ocean Aquarium store in San Francisco and just let the plants grow without a trim. All the fish love it, I think. And I really enjoy this kinda game of hide and seek with them. Like, it's surprisingly easy to "lose" a fish in a 20gal :-) Mua!

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Mickey Pius You’re the best, Mickey. Stay tuned - it should be a fun video with a bunch of happy bettas! 👌

[@full_metal2452]

ADA above them all

[@puppiesrperfect379]

the tank in back of you thelong on what size is it

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

puppiesRperfect that’s a 50 gallon lowboy 👍

[@puppiesrperfect379]

@@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497 thanks

[@jimmycaperton8948]

20 buck starter kit at PetSmart is the best way. All u need is 10 dollar heater. 30 bucks total.

[@mrsprimetimeaquatics5497]

Jimmy Caperton man, I really wish I didn’t know that now. I want a bunch .. 🤩

[@vulcanryder253]

Topfin has a 5.5 gallon kit with hang on back led plastic lid and a heater for $40

[@TobyCreates]

2 peas in a 5.5....?

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

Ya, they have been together for a while now!

[@macho-69]

The only thing that I DON'T LIKE FROM THE "aquatop tank" THE BOTTOM "IS PLASTIC" AND "NOT GLASS" otherwise it will be a great tank

[@aheimsvensson1573]

It,s wendsday...... Massmurder stare

[@YourMajesty100]

what i want to know is why his main beard is grey but his chin part stays of color? lol

[@PrimeTimeAquatics]

I want to know that too. :-)

[@threelynk4313]

First comment

[@fishiontanktics9356]

Three Lynk WOW

[@josecatala5364]

Great Video, thanks for making it. I have all 3 of those tanks and would rank them as follows: AquaTop #1, Fluval, then the standard 5 Gallon. The first two just look a little better setup and the Aquatop really look nice. the higher quality of glass makes a difference. BTW, the internal filter you can remove the shelve at the bottom to remove the bio rings and replace it with what ever you want. If you tip the filter to the right, there is a 'sleeve' than you can pull up and the entire shelf will come up. I placed a sponge on the bottom and filled the top section with bio media. - Again great video

[@AquaTopVideos]

Oh wow, thank you for such honestly review.