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Goldie
Beginner100 L

Classic community tank (100 L)

Three layers of life: neons mid-water, barbs above, corydoras on the bottom.

Classic community tank (100 L) — aquarium setup with fish, plants and equipment (100 L)

Reference 'family' aquarium: 3 species occupy different swimming zones and don't compete.

Great for those who want a planted look: vallisneria, anubias, java fern. Medium light, no CO₂ required.

Dimensions
80×35×40 cm
Temperature
23–27°C
pH
6.5–7.5
gH
4–12 °dGH
Setup time
4 wks
Budget
≈ $320
Total fish
21
Test this setup in Simulator →

Fish (21)

Plants (11)

Invertebrates (6)

  • Amano Shrimp× 6

Setup Checklist

Essential gear and water prep needed before adding fish

0 of 9 ready
  • External canister filterEssential

    ≥ 500 L/h

    Check options →
    ≈ $90
  • HeaterEssential

    100 W

    Check options →
    ≈ $28
  • ThermometerCare
    Check options →
    ≈ $5
  • Basic 6500K LED lightBase
    Check options →
    ≈ $60
  • Inert substrate (2–5 mm gravel)Base
    Check options →
    ≈ $40
  • Dark film backgroundBase
    Check options →
    ≈ $12
  • Water conditioner (dechlorinator)Essential

    Seachem Prime or Tetra AquaSafe — instantly detoxifies chlorine, chloramine, and heavy metals

    Check options →
    ≈ $12
  • Liquid drop test kit (pH, NH₃/NH₄, NO₂, NO₃)Recommended

    API Freshwater Master Test Kit or liquid drop tests to monitor nitrogen cycle

    Check options →
    ≈ $25
  • Fish net & gravel vacuum siphonCare

    Soft fish net matched to fish size + gravel vacuum siphon for weekly 20–30% water changes

    Check options →
    ≈ $15

Decor

  • Natural driftwood (mangrove or mopani)× 2
  • Natural rock (Seiryu / Dragon Stone)× 5

Tips & gotchas

  • Cycle the tank fully (3–4 weeks fishless) before adding stock.
  • Add fish in stages: corydoras first, neons 2 weeks later, barbs another 2 weeks later.
  • Use a single male bristlenose — pairs spawn quickly and stress the male.
  • 30 % water change weekly.