Need help

RMMKD0 · Oct 4, 2019

my tank has had cloudy water almost since I’ve set it up in March. I’m currently running a skimmer and carbon (in mesh bags) in my media baskets. My nitrate is not detectable and assuming phosphate is also probably 0. What should I do?? Add bacteria like microbacter 7, yes water changes, no water changes? I currently have 2 fish a damsel and royal gramma both are doing fine and eating. Do I just be more patient and hope it clears up on its own. Any suggestions are appreciated.

Tank is an 18g aio
Bare bottom, dry rock 10lbs
Sal 1.025
Ph 7.7-8.0
Ammonia 0
Nitrate 0

reef lover · Oct 4, 2019

No sand so thats not it...got a pic?

BayouReefer · Oct 4, 2019

What kind of rock work do you have? What mechanical filtration do you have floss, or filter socks?

Coralreefer1 · Oct 4, 2019

Water changes are the best thing you can do. They dilute potentially dangerously high levels of inorganic, organic matter, elevated chemicals, pollutants, etc. they replenish those pertinent trace minerals, elements, vitamins and other necessary things to help maintain a healthy aquarium. Many minerals, salts and trace elements are exhausted or used up rather quickly through fish respiration, absorption, chemical, biological and mechanical filtration.
Try nitrobacter or similar product as well.
Good luck...

RMMKD0 · Oct 4, 2019

Here’s some pics. I am using some filter pads I’m not using the socks. That come with it. I bought the Marco rock from brs.

stanleo · Oct 4, 2019

My tank looked like that for the first couple months. I just kept up the water changes (20% every other week) and cleaning and one day it was clear. I didn't add any coral till it was clear but I did have fish.

RMMKD0 · Oct 4, 2019

stanleo said:
My tank looked like that for the first couple months. I just kept up the water changes (20% every other week) and cleaning and one day it was clear. I didn't add any coral till it was clear but I did have fish.

I guess that’s my best option. I didn’t want to start playing mad scientist but was wondering if there was anything different I could do. 5 gallons would be about 30% water change, I’ll prolly do that every two weeks and just be patient until it clears.