Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

I searched around a bit, but I didn't find much relevant results. I spent about $300-320 to build my 500-gallon wood-framed fish tank and I would like to add a second tank to hold additional fish (of a different species) once my plants get more established. I could spend another $300 and build a second tank like the first, or for $88 I could buy something like this...


http://www.walmart.com/ip/Intex-10-x-30-Metal-Frame-Pool/40720864


Do these kinds of pools make good long-term fish tanks? I assume they are made from woven-reinforced PVC, which as I understand is not ideal as it can leach the PVC plasticizer chemicals into the water over time. However, PVC is what I already used as a liner for my wood-frame constructed tank.

Ive seen others use them but Id be wary of their longevity, also some cheaper pools have algaecides in the plastic which can be harmful to the establishing bacteria. Ive owned a few kids pools like this over the years and they always end up splitting. You would have to be careful catching fish or moving a pumps around in there so not to cut the liner.

Wouldn't recommend it at all.

Seconded. I've owned 2, used as a summer temporary swimming pool. They're just not durable enough.

LOL are they durable enough for one summer

One of our members (sorry can't remember who), has used one for maybe 4-5 years in a basement system. So I suppose in the right circumstances out of nature and animals with careful management they 'could' be possible...