River Tank Ecosystems for the Classroom Study plants and animals not viable in a typical aquarium Observe the role each organism plays Learn how to develop a balanced ecosystem Create maximum interest with minimal maintenance The River Tank gives you and your students an amazing opportunity to study the natural interactions of plants, animals, and a flowing river system - right in your classroom! The rushing flow of water provides a healthy, oxygen-rich environment. Plants use fish waste as nutrients and provide a natural home for animals. The seepage of water through the unique gravel-filled plant cavity stabilizes pH and biological balance. Because it is an ecologically balanced system, the River Tank Ecosystem requires very little maintenance. Available in 20 and 30 gallon sizes, plus accessory, plant and animal sets. Note:We recommend that you receive and set up your tank several days prior to delivery of live plants or animals. River Tank Ecosystems do not include plants, animals, or gravel.

Maintaing a River Tank Ecosystem: Daily: Feed the fish by sprinkling small amounts of food evenly across the water surface. Feed reptiles and amphibians every 3 to 5 days. DO NOT OVERFEED. Only feed as much as will be completely eaten within 5 to 10 minutes. Monthly: Using a gravel siphon, remove approximately 1/3 of the water and replace with springwater. Replace the filter cartridge, trim plants, clear teh pump intake screen, and wipe the front and sides of the tank clean with a sponge or paper towel. Vacation: Healthy fish should be able to go about a week without feeding. Make sure that you have enough water in the tank to account for the water lost through evaporation during your absence. Troubleshooting: Please feel free to contact us by phone at 800.227.1150 if you need assistance. Your local pet store should be able to help with common aquarium problems.

Grade K and up. The River Tank requires very little maintenance due to its ecologically balanced design. Its continuously flowing water provides an oxygen-rich environment for aquatic organisms, whose waste products provide nutrients for terrestrial plants. Molded plant pockets hold the plants in place and also make an ideal home for newts, lizards, and frogs.

River Tank Complete Ecosystems are shipped with an Ecosystem Mold already mounted inside an aquarium and include a submersible pump, fully adjustable hood light, filter cartridge, and instructions.

River Tank Ecosystems do not include plants, animals, or gravel. See the River Tank Plant Set (161541), River Tank Animal Set (161545), and River Tank Accessory Set (161549).

These items only ship motor freight and cannot be expedited to 2nd day air or overnight delivery.