So I set up my tank on October 6th it is now October 19th and the original 20 gallon cube I planned to use, cracked because of the way I had mounted the light I'm not so disappointed though because it was an acrylic tank that had a lot of scratches that wouldn't come out with 400, 600, 800, 1000, 1200 grit wet and dry sand paper AND novus scratch remover part 3, 2, or 1! I was so disappointed as I watched DIY fish keeper on YouTube do it by hand and thought it was a sure fire way to get the scratches out Any way, I'm now running a 20 gallon long tank which I think makes for a more suitable environment for fish and coral. I added the rock I purchased from a guy on offerup that he was storing in a trashcan in his backyard, along with two other types lava rock from a reputable pet store. I used Dr. Tim's one and only and a 3 dollar chromie from a janky Pet store which I believe died of Uronema At least I am learning my lessons right away But anyway here is my tank because the diatoms are starting kick in and I would like any advice as to what to expect next and also wondering when I should do a large water change? And the percentage of water I should replace.
Diatom Bloom
- Thread starter amfreefer
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Sparkymarc
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I’m assuming you are still cycling? Are you testing for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrates?
Sparkymarc
Active Member
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IMO, fishless cylces are easier. I used dr. Tim’s ammonium chloride and kept ammonia levels at 2ppm. Once your tank can bring 2ppm ammonia to 0 and nitrite to 0 in 24 hrs, your tank should cycled. I personally did no water changes until cycle was complete, to rid the tank of nitrates. If ammonia gets too high, I would do a water change. Need to let the ammonia do it’s job.
