Reptile & Amphibian Forums

In the near future I am thinking of upgrading my 29 gallon turtle tank to maybe a 100 gallon or so. I don't want to have to keep buying bigger and bigger tanks, I might as well start out with a big one. But does anyone have any suggestions on where to get cheaper aquariums that are that large? I was thinking maybe I could buy a used one, but where from? Thank you for for your help!

God thinking. Bigger is better for your web-footed friends. Try using google to search for "aquarium classifieds"
there are several out there...online fish supplies classifieds and you can get good stuff there. Plus you'd be amazed how many tanks are offered for sale in the regular newspapaer classifieds if you live in or near a big city. Plus there's always the option to walk in to a pet store and ask "what's old?" Many times they won't have anything but sometimes you can get old tanks realy cheap if they are upgrading at a store (small stores are more likley to do this than say, Petco or petsmart) Usually they want you to make an offer, 1 dolar per gallon fr used is usually fair unless the tank is only slightly used.

Also have you thought about stock tanks or feed troughs?

I was going bigger from my 55 gallon for my two sliders, so i decided to get a pre fpormed pond. Its only 50 gallons, but it gives them a lot more room, about 54 inches long, 20-25 inches wide, varying in location of pond, and about 2/3 is 18 inches which is about 2 inches deeper, and about 1/3 of the pond is shallower which is nice for the turtles just to relax. I just now put it in, the big one seems a little weirded out, but the little one seems to be enjoying himself. Also this pond was only 50 bucks at lowes, a cinder block to support the shallow end of the tank since its not burried, a fluval 304 and some wood and nails and a lil creativity to forma basking area.

Does it have to be an aquarium? Aside from the expense, tanks that large need the special stands, which is just one more thing.

I use a 250 gallon horse trough. The thing was like $70 at a farm supply store, and it really doesn't look bad. Also I rent, so now I won't have to worry about breaking a giant glass thing the next time I move.

If it must be an aquarium, definitely check out the local newspaper classified ads, people seem to be getting rid of aquariums all the time!

Good luck.

Your local newspaper classifieds would be a start. I live in a moderate sized city, and every week there is at least one tank 125 gallon or bigger. Also check the larger warehouse style pet stores (PetSMart, Pet. CO, etc). If they have a 125 or bigger around and it has not sold and they have had it a while they might cut you a deal. It is easier for them to sell a few smaller tanks than that large one, and it takes up their display space. Just ask how long they have had it, and if they really want to move it. You can always go for the classifieds in a large city near you, then borrow a truck.

Thank you everyone for your input. I will definently look at the classifieds in the newspaper and check out some online stores for a horse trough and whatnot. Thank you!!

there's a place called "twin oaks", they have a website, maybe you can do a google search for it. They have the cheapest HUGE aquariums I've seen advertised. The only trick is you have to meet them at a reptile show somewhere and pick up the tank you ordered. I don't think they ship them via other means, and that would be insanely expensive anyway (these tanks can way a lot even empty)