Hiya,

I am new to this group. I am returning to keeping fish after a five
year gap.
I used to have 2 four foot tanks, and several smaller tanks. Gave up,
when
I kept moving location.

Now in the process of setting up a 2ft and an 18 inch tank.

Have underground filters, in tank box filters, and separate airstones
in each. Both tanks have fairly
vigourous airflow, and bubbles. Is this likely to cause any problems? I
am using air pumps
from the original 4ft tanks, (whisper 650), which are quite strong for
the smaller tanks. With robust fish
and plants I think this should be okay?

I am also using old, but rinsed out, filter sponges, is there any
reason I should buy new ones?
They look sort of okay?

I used to have an uplifter power head type thing, on one side of the
undergravel filter. Seem to have
lost it. Is that much more efficient than using air stones to create up
lift in the undergravel filter?

I have treated the water, and am planning to add some maturing bacteria
to the tanks. Planning
to get plants next week, then leave another week.

Thinking the 2ft tank will contain cold water fish, mainly goldfish.
Somehow, I think well lit goldfish
can look almost unbeatably spectacular. Mostly plastic plants. Would
like to attempt a few real plants.

The 18 inch tank, I would like to contain tropical fish and be properly
planted.

Seeking advice on what plant might last a while with goldfish?
And where to order a good, robust selection for 18 inch tank.
Simply going to contain ordinary, community tropical fish.

I cant remember anything about the plants I used to have. Beyond that
some live, and some always seem to die.

Noticed this link mentioned.
www.tropical-aquarium-plants.co.uk
Any plant recommendations? For each tank?
Any recommendations for aquatic shops near Richmond / St. Margarets /
Victoria?

Many thanks

Pip