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I have found someone who has a 55g tank for sale. The problem is that it was used as a saltwater tank before. This may be a silly question...but is it ok to use it for a freshwater tank now? The tank has not been used in 3 months and the guy said he thoroughly cleaned it after he took it down.

I would only use the tank...and not any of the equipment.

Would it be safe?

*Kristin*

Yep, it should be just fine as long as it has been cleaned out well. Though I can't say for certain whether they would still be a factor, toxins from one or more saltwater animals may have been released into the tank in the past. Corals, boxfish, and cucumbers among others are capable of producing nasty poisons which can kill other aquarium inhabitants. Again, I do not know if such toxins would last a very long time in a dried-out tank or if they would still be effective in freshwater, but it's a good idea to make sure that aquarium is very clean.

Other factors include salt creep and mineral buildup, both of which may need scouring if still present.

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And when he gets to Heaven, to Saint Peter he will tell: "One more Marine reporting, Sir! I've served my time in Hell."

No reason why it shouldn't be. Any minor salt residue left over wouldn't hurt at all. Many fish keepers add a bit of salt to their fresh water tanks anyways.

Jim

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Water, taken in moderation, cannot hurt anybody. -- Mark Twain

Thanks guys! I think I may go for this deal then...I'll check it out first of course. A 55g tank and stand for $150...that's a deal to me. My 55g tank and stand was around $300 and that's w/out any extras...it was new though.

Thanks again!

edit: If I get it, I will make sure to clean it out really well before I use it. I just looked at a picture of the tank and there is a label on it that says "Warning, contains poisonous fish, do not put hands in the tank". So I'll be making sure no toxins are left.

*Kristin*