Prep for Big Fish Addition. Bio Load Question.

AKL1950 · Jul 25, 2022

My system has been running for a little over two months. WaterBox 220.6 (Around 190 gal total water). Current residents are 2 clowns, 3 chromis, one tang and a couple of shrimp. I have been feeding fairly well for that small group. Next week I will be getting four new pre-quarantined fish from Dr Reef which are all about 3” long and 2 more shrimp. Also another 3” fish will be coming out of QT. I have some BioSpira and MictoBacter 7 on hand.

Should I be concerned about the increased bio load? If so, how best to insure things run smooth when I introduce what will double my residents.

Jetson

TastesLikeChicken · Jul 25, 2022

You should be concerned. Put extra amounts of live bacteria in your system. Keep feeding to a minimum until you are sure the system has caught up. Check water parameters frequently and be ready to do large water changes if required.

Johnz · Jul 25, 2022

I think you'll be fine, I've added similar amounts of fish to a lightly stocked tank before without issue. If you want to be sure, over feed your current fish a little, then feed lightly when you get the new fish for the first few days. Give the bacteria a chance to build up.

G Santana · Jul 25, 2022

In 190 gallon tank/water volume, I would not be concerned. Adding the MB7 will aide the transition.

AKL1950 · Jul 25, 2022

G Santana said:
In 190 gallon tank/water volume, I would not be concerned. Adding the MB7 will aide the transition.

How much would you add? Small daily dose for say a week to help the transition?

G Santana · Jul 25, 2022

AKL1950 said:
How much would you add? Small daily dose for say a week to help the transition?

I add 2 capfuls as part of a weekly maintenance on my 130 gallon, I would start there, I wouldn't overdo it, if you have enough live rock it will pick up the slack especially in a tank that size.

AKL1950 · Jul 26, 2022

Great. Thanks. I’ve only had the lights on for about two weeks now and am just starting to see the ugly phase kick in. Getting the brown dusty look on the rocks where the light hits them. Hopefully the biology is moving along at a good pace.