Setting up a 90-gallon tank for large orandas

[OrandaLove]

I recently bought a 90-gallon tank at an auction for a second hand store that went out of business. It is a nice tank, but that is all it is...just a glass tank. I have tested it for leaks, but it has proven to be water tight. I need every accessory that is required to run such a tank and I'm a little new at this. I'd like to find out exactly what I'm going to need to get this thing going, and to run efficiently enough that I won't have to worry about experiencing any unpleasant odors emanating from the tank, as my room-mate has already warned me that it would have to go if he smells it once.

I would like to run one of the under gravel filters, and I plan to get several orandas of varying size, with at least 2 very large ones, along with a couple of plecos and algae eaters, and a few catfish to clean the tank. I thought I'd start the process of getting the environment set up by getting a few small orandas. What is all the equipment I will need? And how many of the small orandas should I start with and how long will it take them to get the water ready for the larger and more expensive fishes?

Thanks in advance,
Bryan
AKA, OrandaLover

[Austy16414]

Firstly, you should give the tank time to cycle before adding fish. You can find someone with established filter media, which will greatly speed up the process. I would also look into some type of external filtration, maybe an Aquaclear HOB or Eheim canister, as Orandas do require a little extra filtration. The tank temperature should be somewhere between 65 and the low 70s, so you may or may not need a heater. Glass tops will help prevent evaporation. Lights are good for viewing, but not exactly necessary unless you're growing plants as well. All that said, I would hold off on purchasing the Orandas until the tank is cycled. Once the tank is ready, add the fish.