Galvanized stock tank safe for fish?

[SuAnn]

Is a galvanized stock tank safe for pond fish long-term? I'm in my late 60's and am looking for something fool-proof and low-maintenance. I plan to use a small rubber tub bog filter supported within the 8'x3'x2' tank so that if it springs any leaks/overflows no harm is done 'til I can remedy it. I'd prefer to use the Rubbermaid foam stock tank but am not fond of the shape, looking more for a long oval. There are other rubber/plastic types, but I can't get them locally. I've had small ponds for about 20 years, one about 800 gallon hand-dug and one a 110-gallon rubber stock tank, but just moved to a new house and would like something about 300 gallons. Thanks for any input!

 

[TheFishGuy]

Some people claim that they leach zinc and other potentially toxic chemicals into the water, however I used one for some time with no problems that I know of. My best advice would be to use a flexible pond liner inside of the stock tank, so that the water does not come into contact with the metal.

 

[Jhn]

Would put a liner in it, while not acutely toxic, metals like zinc, etc. are toxic to fish and will accumulate in their bodies overtime, eventually causing issues.

 

[SuAnn]

Thanks to you both for the informed replies! I've reevaluated and decided on the 300 gallon Rubbermaid stock tank instead of the galvanized.

 

[SuAnn]

Some people claim that they leach zinc and other potentially toxic chemicals into the water, however I used one for some time with no problems that I know of. My best advice would be to use a flexible pond liner inside of the stock tank, so that the water does not come into contact with the metal.

Man, your ponds are fantastic and your vision and skill are impressive! Love your aquarium too - seems like you don't do anything in a small way!

 

[TheFishGuy]

Man, your ponds are fantastic and your vision and skill are impressive! Love your aquarium too - seems like you don't do anything in a small way!

Thanks!

 

[Connie jo]

I switched to a galvanized stock tank from a Rubbermaid tank.I went through 2 rubbermaid tanks and they both started leaking within a few years. The galvanized tub killed all of my fish. I kept checking for ammonia and treating the water. It was highly oxegenated. I will try again with a liner and new fish. Thanks for the possible explaination.

 

[GBBUDD]

I know a member here has used multiple 300 gallon Rubbermaids I bet the key is to not used the drain plug. Pump the water out

 

[Lilguy]

I have used plastic livestock tanks for years. My small pond is a 300 gal Rubbermaid in the ground for 6 years. I use a 70 gal Behen for my biologic filter/ waterfall trough. 150 gal for
in garage winter housing for Fish.

 

[j.w]

@Connie jo