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From: stu 4/21/00
Subject: oscar company?????? Posted by stumarshotmail.com) stu on April 21, 101 at 22:26:11: hi in one of my 55g im putting in 2 small oscars. what fish can i have to accompany these oscars as they grow. when the oscars grow pretty big they will be moved into a 125 or a 175g. 8872

From: dino 4/22/00
Subject: Re: oscar company?????? Posted by dino on April 22, 101 at 09:16:10: Re: (8862.html) oscar company?????? posted by stu on April 21, 101 at 22:26:11: that's a tough call. i started out a 55 gallon tank just like yours, with 2 oscars as well, and two plecostamus. everything was fine, for a while, but then one oscar became very much the dominant fish in the tank,and killed the other. a few months later, he also killed one of my plecos as well. (and my plecos were both danged good size too) maybe my oscar was just overly agressive, but i ended up having to remove the second pleco as well, cause my oscar (fondly called 'Fang') kept harassing him terribly too. in the end, i just had to keep Fang by himself. i am only one person with one opinion, but i didn't find oscars too fond of sharing. they don't seem to play well with others!!! 8857

From: matt 4/21/00
Subject: water change question and landscape question Posted by matthoffbrandeis.edu) matt on April 21, 101 at 13:55:22: when changing water, i'm not sure whether or not i should move my piece of lava rock. i want to cleanse the gravel under there, but i don't want to disturb any rearrangement that my fish have done (my clown loaches love it there). also, i'm planning on adding another rock to my aquarium. is there anything i should keep in mind when doing this? is it okay to change the setup of landscape inside the tank, or does this upset the fish? 8863

From: stu 4/21/00
Subject: Re: water change question and landscape question Posted by stumarshotmail.com) stu on April 21, 101 at 22:34:30: Re: (8857.html) water change question and landscape question posted by matt on April 21, 101 at 13:55:22: i would just clean the junk under the rock i do it and it seems to work. with adding another rock i just did this to one of my 55g fish fish seem to love the landscape. i change it around about every 2 months to make it look differnt. my fish just seem to settle back down into there new landscape in a day or two. it should be all good. 8856

From: Kay 4/21/00
Subject: Why'd another Placostomas die? Posted by KSch169415aol.com) Kay on April 21, 101 at 12:31:11: Help! Last month, a two-year old Placo was found dead in my 10 gal tank. Other occupants, 3 danios, no problems. pH7, NH4 0, NO3 0, NO4 40ppm, planted tank with algae slight to moderately overgrowing as Placo seemed to have started eating flake food instead. Now, about a month later, second, 1 year old Placo fell over dead, seemed thin, eating poorly while algae grows. Three danios still happy, also 2 rummynose tetras and 2 oto cats introduced 3 weeks ago all fine. I want another Placo, but can't do another funeral. ANY IDEAS? Thank-you. 8855

From: Ken 4/21/00
Subject: Brown Diatom Posted by JH0311aol.com) Ken on April 21, 101 at 10:45:19: I am attempting my first venture into marine aquariums. I have a 75 gallon tank with an Emperor power filter a couple of small powerheads rated at a combined total of 350 gph circulation, and a 250gph amiracle protein skimmer. There are 5 damselfish and a single invert in residence. The conditioning period is over but I am having a constant problem with diatoms dying off leaving a brown film everywhere. Water changes work but only for 36 hours. My salt is called Crystal Sea and the bucket states it is phosphate and nitrate free. I use a Tap Water Purifier to purify the water and finally my tests for ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, PH and Alkalinity are fine. Help! 8849

From: Cristi 4/21/00
Subject: New 30gal ...Ideas on Fish and Care? Posted by crstswrtaol.com) Cristi on April 21, 101 at 08:57:52: I already have other tanks with Mollies, Red-eye Tetras, Blood-fin Tetras, Platys, Kissing Gouramis, and a Glass Fish. I need suggestions on fish I can add to my new 30 gallon. I prefer fish that cost less than $10, and ones that are easy and non-aggressive. I've never had a tank over 10gal, and I'd like to know if there are any differences in taking care of this new tank as compared to the 10gal. Any suggestions would be helpful. 8867

From: stu 4/21/00
Subject: Re: New 30gal ...Ideas on Fish and Care? Posted by stumarshotmail.com) stu on April 21, 101 at 22:53:47: Re: (8849.html) New 30gal ...Ideas on Fish and Care? posted by Cristi on April 21, 101 at 08:57:52: u could have a rainbow fish tank. or maybe 2-3 angel fish with 3 clown loaches wich would be nicely planted. 8858

From: dino 4/21/00
Subject: Re: New 30gal ...Ideas on Fish and Care? Posted by deniselanahotmail.com) dino on April 21, 101 at 13:56:22: Re: (8849.html) New 30gal ...Ideas on Fish and Care? posted by Cristi on April 21, 101 at 08:57:52: i agree with deceit101. neon tetras would definitely be my choice, because they are beautiful schooling fish. a larger tank would be great for lots of neons!!! one think i have discovered from my experiences is that a larger tank, once totally established, remains much more stable than a smaller one. it takes a lot more to fluctuate 30 gallons of water as opposed to 10, so you should find it lots easier to maintain the larger tank as well. you can usually pick up neons for a 1.50 or per fish, and some shops even sell them by the dozen or in bulk, usually for lots cheaper than buying them individually. 8851

From: Deceit101 4/21/00
Subject: Re: New 30gal ...Ideas on Fish and Care? Posted by deceit101msn.com) Deceit101 on April 21, 101 at 09:10:20: Re: (8849.html) New 30gal ...Ideas on Fish and Care? posted by Cristi on April 21, 101 at 08:57:52: only the bigger filter... One thing about bigger tanks is you can get the full effect of schooling fish... try about 6 or more neon tetras after your tank has cycled or a number of Herlequin rasboras. At least, thats the one thing I really enjoy with the bigger tanks, plus alot of extra room for plants! -Deceit101 8844

From: Music9Dave 4/21/00
Subject: New tank needed? Posted by music9daveaol.com) Music9Dave on April 21, 101 at 07:57:36: OK, I've had several guppies for about 7 yrs now (i'm 16) and am now down to two. They are both females, but I'm in it for watching the fish, not breeding them. I have been using a ten gallon tank for a year now, which was a waste with two guppies...I had a snail problem, and three days ago I got a Clown Loach. I have provided a hiding place for him a treasure chest which has a space about 2 cubic inches underneath. He(she?) hides under there all day, and I've only seen him come out a few times. I feed the fish flakes. I have noticed that the sanil population seems to be going down, but this may be just optimism on my part :-). I've been reading up on it and see that a school of 3 is healthy for it, and maybe then I'll see them more. So what my question is: should i get a new tank for my fish? Or is ten gallons enough for 3 loaches + 2 guppies? I would be happy with this small amount of fish. 8852

From: Deceit101 4/21/00
Subject: Re: New tank needed? Posted by deceit101msn.com) Deceit101 on April 21, 101 at 09:13:16: Re: (8844.html) New tank needed? posted by Music9Dave on April 21, 101 at 07:57:36: a 10 gallon is fine. Hell, if you wanted you could even add more small fish later.. -Deceit101 8866

From: stu 4/21/00
Subject: Re: New tank needed? Posted by stumarshotmail.com) stu on April 21, 101 at 22:46:20: Re: (8852.html) Re: New tank needed? posted by Deceit101 on April 21, 101 at 09:13:16: im not so sure about that clown loaches can grow up to 10inches. but clown loaches are failry slow growers so it will do for the mean time. also the reason why u arnt seeing much of u clown loach is beacuase they are nocturnal meaning that they sleep in the day time and come out at night. though this doesnt apply to mine there always out in the day time i have 7 small 2-3 inch ones in one of my 55gs. when u have 3 in there they probaly will swim a bit more in the day time together. but remeber they will need a bigger tank one day so i suggest that u start saivng money. 8871

From: Vicki 4/22/00
Subject: Re: New tank needed? Posted by boozynuthotmail.com) Vicki on April 22, 101 at 02:15:06: Re: (8866.html) Re: New tank needed? posted by stu on April 21, 101 at 22:46:20: i think it would be kinder to get a few more guppies- they are usually happier in schools of five and six! 8842

From: Vicki 4/21/00
Subject: measuring tank size? Posted by boozynuthotmail.com) Vicki on April 21, 101 at 03:39:09: ok ok- so i really am a beginner- but everyone here seems to know how many gallons their tank is! my tank measures: 24 inch x 13 inch x 12 inch x is there any way i can work out how many gallons it is? i have in it - 6 tetras - 2 guppies - 3 guppy fry -3 platies it doesn't seem overcrowded but im worried now! please help! 8850

From: Deceit101 4/21/00
Subject: Re: measuring tank size? Posted by deceit101msn.com) Deceit101 on April 21, 101 at 08:59:28: Re: (8842.html) measuring tank size? posted by Vicki on April 21, 101 at 03:39:09: If your tank is a standard tank, that would be a 15g tank. And your fish shuld be fine, The fry may be in danger(depending on how big), but the stocking is fine. 8843

From: dino 4/21/00
Subject: Re: measuring tank size? Posted by deniselanahotmail.com) dino on April 21, 101 at 07:34:34: Re: (8842.html) measuring tank size? posted by Vicki on April 21, 101 at 03:39:09: if your tank is square and measures 24X13X12, the cubic inches in your tank are 3,744. converted over to gallons, that's about a 16 gallon tank, if my math doesn't deceive me. now i don't know how long each of your fish are, but with 11 fish and 3 fry, that should be fine. (you should roughly have no more than 1 inch of fish per gallon of water). i hope this helps out and eases your mind!!! 8869

From: Vicki 4/22/00
Subject: Re: measuring tank size? Posted by boozynuthotmail.com) Vicki on April 22, 101 at 02:06:36: Re: (8843.html) Re: measuring tank size? posted by dino on April 21, 101 at 07:34:34: thanks very much guys- that helped a lot, and because most of my fish are less than an inch- i could even fit more in! dont think i will though- its fine as it is for the meanwhile.... 8836

From: Sorren 4/20/00
Subject: Guppyboy's web page? Posted by Sorren on April 20, 101 at 21:23:54: Does anybody know his site?My list of favorites got erased and so I'm now having to find them all again. 8859

From: koko 4/21/00
Subject: Re: Guppyboy's web page? Posted by kokopaleehotmail.com) koko on April 21, 101 at 18:37:24: Re: (8836.html) Guppyboy's web page? posted by Sorren on April 20, 101 at 21:23:54: found it for you.......http://myfishjoshtabor.freehomepage.com/ 8860

From: Sorren 4/21/00
Subject: Thanks Koko! Posted by Sorren on April 21, 101 at 20:38:55: Re: (8859.html) Re: Guppyboy's web page? posted by koko on April 21, 101 at 18:37:24: I had yours added back on too!!!:o) 8831

From: Vicki 4/20/00
Subject: bala sharks? gouramis? Posted by boozynuthotmail.com) Vicki on April 20, 101 at 04:05:00: my tanks been set up since the end of february. i had a bit of trouble at first but now i have -three platies -four red-eyed tetra -two blue tetra -2 guppies (1 male, 1 female) -3 two week old guppy fry all living happily! i like the look of bala sharks but i hear they get really big (which might endanger my smaller fish?) im also quite interested in gouramis, but hear they can be viscious. any comments or advice anyone? thanks. 8833

From: Guy 4/20/00
Subject: Re: bala sharks? gouramis? Posted by gadams1pclin.com) Guy on April 20, 101 at 07:46:00: Re: (8831.html) bala sharks? gouramis? posted by Vicki on April 20, 101 at 04:05:00: Hi Vicki - I have 2 bala sharks, and it is true they can get quite large, BUT HAVE NO FEAR! They are the most peaceful docile fish no matter how big they get, they wouldn't hurt the smallest neon tetra let alone any other fish. They make a great community tank fish so I say GO FOR IT. I love gouramis too but they can be viscious. I always buy them in pairs and have had only 1 pair at a time, one is usually aggressive and the othe docile. In my latest pair the aggressive one killed the docile gourami, poor thing, he had chunks of flesh knawed away but the aggressive gourami. Get some bala sharks, they will grow big in time but you won't be sorry and you can always trade them in for a smaller pair, I do! Good luck 8839

From: Vicki 4/21/00
Subject: Re: bala sharks? gouramis? Posted by boozynuthotmail.com) Vicki on April 21, 101 at 03:16:37: Re: (8833.html) Re: bala sharks? gouramis? posted by Guy on April 20, 101 at 07:46:00: Thanks Guy! I think I'll be getting some balas then! are they happier schooling or on their own? 8848

From: Deceit101 4/21/00
Subject: Re: bala sharks? gouramis? Posted by deceit101msn.com) Deceit101 on April 21, 101 at 08:49:17: Re: (8839.html) Re: bala sharks? gouramis? posted by Vicki on April 21, 101 at 03:16:37: Bala sharks actually are schooling fish and do better with more of there kind. -Deceit 8825

From: matt 4/19/00
Subject: fish and frogs, living together Posted by matthoffbrandeis.edu) matt on April 19, 101 at 22:41:26: i have a 29 gallon tank that contains 4 plants, a piece of wood, a piece of lava rock, 6 neon tetras, 1 penguin tetra, 4 zebra danios, and 2 red swordtails. i want to add some combination of the following: clown loaches (probably 3, possibly 5, depending) some algae eater (maybe a pleco, maybe some other kind) maybe a bala shark (or more--do they school?) more penguin tetras (the 1 i have doesn't hang out with the neons...it seems to follow the zebra danios more). i also want to add some african dwarf frogs (at least 2, maybe more if i can do it). i intend to put in some more hiding places for the loaches, the pleco (if i get it), and the frogs. do you have any advice as to how i should do all this, what combination of fish would be good, etc.? i don't want to overload the tank, but i would like to have a nice community going on. any advice would be greatly appreciated. 8853

From: Deceit101 4/21/00
Subject: Re: fish and frogs, living together Posted by deceit101msn.com) Deceit101 on April 21, 101 at 09:19:15: Re: (8825.html) fish and frogs, living together posted by matt on April 19, 101 at 22:41:26: Yes bala sharks school, but they are not very hardy and tend to pass on pretty easily if your tank isn't already established (past cycling). Everything sounds good tho. And yes you can add Bala sharks, they dont get 1ft over night. and when they get big you can trade them for smaller ones unless you want to get a big tank for them. I have yet to see a bala shark get that big anyway. Dont let these whiners discourage you just because someone discouraged them. -Deceit101 8834

From: justin 4/20/00
Subject: Re: fish and frogs, living together Posted by justincaphotmail.com) justin on April 20, 101 at 11:41:26: Re: (8825.html) fish and frogs, living together posted by matt on April 19, 101 at 22:41:26: Dont get any bala sharks they get about a foot long. Frogs otta be fine 8820

From: J.B 4/19/00
Subject: Swordtail Platy Posted by J.B on April 19, 101 at 17:32:30: I've heard that platys and swordtails can interbreed, has anyone ever seen or heard of this? What do the babies look like? Is this even possible? Thanks 8814

From: Lauren 4/19/00
Subject: Beginner looking for a good fish. Posted by fuzzy_duck62hotmail.com) Lauren on April 19, 101 at 16:03:29: Can anyone tell me the names of a few inexpensive, freshwater fish that would be good for a beginner? Please email me at: fuzzy_duck62hotmail.com because I'm not going to check the message boards. Thank you! 8826

From: Lauren 4/19/00
Subject: Re: Beginner looking for a good fish. Posted by fuzzy_duck62hotmail.com) Lauren on April 19, 101 at 22:59:12: Re: (8814.html) Beginner looking for a good fish. posted by Lauren on April 19, 101 at 16:03:29: Thank you everyone. I think I have decided to get a betta. I had one when I was younger, but my mother took care of it! Is there anything important I should know before I get one? What do they eat? I heard they breath "air". Is that true? How long do they live? Thank you. Lauren. 8861

From: stu 4/21/00
Subject: Re: Beginner looking for a good fish. Posted by stumarshotmail.com) stu on April 21, 101 at 22:19:42: Re: (8826.html) Re: Beginner looking for a good fish. posted by Lauren on April 19, 101 at 22:59:12: zebra danios and white cloud minnows are good starting fish. they need minimal care and are very hardy. if u do get the betta make sure u just get the one(which would be a male), there water needs to be pretty warm u could get away without having a heater depends were u live. thats true that they do breath air. u can feed them simply on tropical flakes and betta pellets. but if u want u bettea to thirve and show his colour preferably feed live foods. eg. brine shrimp, little worms, anything really. life span for a betta is usually around 2-5yrs. depending on the tank or bowl water conditions. 8815

From: Gordon Russell 4/19/00
Subject: Re: Beginner looking for a good fish. Posted by niceguy-029webtv.net) Gordon Russell on April 19, 101 at 16:23:51: Re: (8814.html) Beginner looking for a good fish. posted by Lauren on April 19, 101 at 16:03:29: Sordtails Molleys Guppies Neon tetras Pleco Danios or Zebra fish Hope this helps you! Have a good day. 8822

From: koko 4/19/00
Subject: Re: Beginner looking for a good fish. Posted by koko on April 19, 101 at 18:20:22: Re: (8815.html) Re: Beginner looking for a good fish. posted by Gordon Russell on April 19, 101 at 16:23:51: Goldfish are good and bettas. 8812

From: Jada 4/19/00
Subject: feeding oscars Posted by Jadajo80aol.com) Jada on April 19, 101 at 15:12:58: I feed my oscars twice a day, but I was told that oscars grow faster if you only feed them once a day. does anyone know how much truth there is to this? it doesn't make much sense to me. 8821

From: dino 4/19/00
Subject: Re: feeding oscars Posted by deniselanahotmail.com) dino on April 19, 101 at 17:55:49: Re: (8812.html) feeding oscars posted by Jada on April 19, 101 at 15:12:58: i had a 12 inch oscar, Fang, for 7 years, and i fed him twice a day, once with live minnows, the other, with pellets. he seemed to thrive just fine -- in fact, he was very virile, and grew so huge, i had to change tanks to keep him from overpowering my two plecos!!! i don't think it much matters how often you feed oscars, 2x vs. 1x, in my opinion. 8816

From: Nice guy 4/19/00
Subject: Re: feeding oscars Posted by Nice guy on April 19, 101 at 16:37:25: Re: (8812.html) feeding oscars posted by Jada on April 19, 101 at 15:12:58: They grow fast no matter what and he will be to big before you know it. 8806

From: J.B 4/19/00
Subject: Sick Swordtail Posted by J.B on April 19, 101 at 14:20:00: Does anyone know how to cure fin clasp in a Swordtail? 8797

From: J.B 4/19/00
Subject: Sick Swordtail Posted by J.B on April 19, 101 at 13:45:40: Does anyone know how to cure fin clasp in a Swordtail? 8794

From: tlw 4/19/00
Subject: stinky tank Posted by billwgilanet.com) tlw on April 19, 101 at 10:29:39: I have 4 small fish in a 15 gallon tank. We have well water with a water softener. I change the water (75%) once a week and the filters at that time. The problem is, the water stinks just a day or so after I have changed it. I really cleaned the gravel the last time--several rinses in very hot water, running my hands through the gravel to really wash it. I always clean the filters--there are 2 of them in the tank--and change them each time I clean the tank. Any suggestions on why the water stinks so soon after changing and what to do. Thanks in advance. 8827

From: Nick 4/19/00
Subject: Re: stinky tank Posted by Nick on April 19, 101 at 22:59:26: Re: (8794.html) stinky tank posted by tlw on April 19, 101 at 10:29:39: First, read about cycling a tank. Water change of 75% is way too much. Water changes of 10-20% (2-3 gallons in your case) should be done once a week. Filters should not be cleaned at the same time as a water change. They should be rinsed in the water you've taken out of the tank to get rid of debris. You dont' want to replace the filter often because you want to keep the good bacteria that keep a tank healthy. Carbon may temporarily fix the smell, but the real way to fix it is to maintain your tank well so that it wont' smell in the first place. What fish do you have? 8800

From: J.B 4/19/00
Subject: Re: stinky tank Posted by J.B on April 19, 101 at 13:58:11: Re: (8794.html) stinky tank posted by tlw on April 19, 101 at 10:29:39: Try placing some charcoal in one of your filters this should eliminate the smell and any cloudiness. 8854

From: Deceit101 4/21/00
Subject: Re: stinky tank Posted by deceit101msn.com) Deceit101 on April 21, 101 at 09:32:48: Re: (8800.html) Re: stinky tank posted by J.B on April 19, 101 at 13:58:11: First of all, charcoal is out of date. Its carbon is what you want. Second, thats not how to fix the problem. Listen to the first dude. I think the smell is because your mixing up all the junk on the bottom, then taking out most of the biological filtration, and the build up of ammonia and other toxins are going unchallenged and are so strong that it even puts off a smell. Thats pretty bad.. lessen water changes, and keep the filters.. do you have any type of bio filter in your filter, like bio-wheels, or spounge filter? or are you using a whisper (they suck for bio-filteration) -Deceit101 8793

From: Vicki 4/19/00
Subject: baby guppies- help! total beginner. Posted by boozynuthotmail.com) Vicki on April 19, 101 at 09:15:01: i only have two guppies (1 male, 1 female) due to a huge bout of finrot in my tank recently. we're over that now and my guppies have had some fry! they were born when i was out so most of them got eaten- 3 survived and they're growing well. its been about two weeks now and they all look female. does this mean they are? or do their colours appear later? how long b4 they reach full size? please help- ive got no idea! 8798

From: J.B 4/19/00
Subject: Re: baby guppies- help! total beginner. Posted by J.B on April 19, 101 at 13:53:07: Re: (8793.html) baby guppies- help! total beginner. posted by Vicki on April 19, 101 at 09:15:01: You will not be able to tell the difference between male and female for 2 or so more months, try to look for a gonopodium on the male (a long rounded fin under his belly.) They won't reach full size for quite a while but they will reach sexual maturity in less than 3 months. 8829

From: Vicki 4/20/00
Subject: Re: baby guppies- help! total beginner. Posted by boozynuthotmail.com) Vicki on April 20, 101 at 03:51:40: Re: (8798.html) Re: baby guppies- help! total beginner. posted by J.B on April 19, 101 at 13:53:07: thanks a lot- looks like ive got two males and one female- but im not sure! 8792

From: Crystal 4/19/00
Subject: Oops, medication and snails Posted by Crystal on April 19, 101 at 08:14:30: I accidently put a small amount of Liquid Fungus Cure in my 45 that has two filters. It was diluted in water that I was transfering,trace amounts just enough to color the water a little. I had 4 snails in there, will this hurt them? I know that some meds will kill them. As soon as I realized what happened I removed the snails. What about salt, is this ok? I just bought the snails yesturday and didn't think of that. I will put them in some of my betta tanks for the time being, until I know it is safe to put them back. Thanks 8824

From: colcol 4/19/00
Subject: Re: Oops, medication and snails Posted by colcruzhotmail.com) colcol on April 19, 101 at 22:28:06: Re: (8792.html) Oops, medication and snails posted by Crystal on April 19, 101 at 08:14:30: What kind of snails are they? I have some small, longish curly type (ones they say are bad for aquariums because they multiply rapidly and leave too much waste). I've been wondering about meds & salt too. Haven't had them long, but currently am treating my 10 gal tank with ick med and extra salt. My 2 mollies got stressed out too much because of a 2 1/2 day power outage... Anyway, I've been following med directions, doing water temp increase and doseage amount required, plus the extra salt, and these little snails haven't died yet. But maybe you have the "good kind" of snail, the whopper-size? Don't know what they're called. (I'm newbie too) 8832

From: Crystal 4/20/00
Subject: The whopper size..... Posted by Crystal on April 20, 101 at 06:32:47: Re: (8824.html) Re: Oops, medication and snails posted by colcol on April 19, 101 at 22:28:06: Thats a good way of putting it. Yeah, Mine are black apple snails. I put them back in this am, and they seem fine. I guess I'll just keep an eye on them. 8837

From: colcol 4/20/00
Subject: Re: The whopper size..... Posted by colcruzhotmail.com) colcol on April 20, 101 at 21:48:16: Re: (8832.html) The whopper size..... posted by Crystal on April 20, 101 at 06:32:47: I'm wondering if those hummers are quite sensitive. I saw one the size of a BASEBALL today at a pet shop in a mall. I COULD NOT believe how huge it was! I didn't even ask the price! I also saw alot of dead-empty shells. I hope yours does ok! I wish some more people here knew more about this kind of snail for you. 8790

From: Kim 4/19/00
Subject: Bettas and filters Posted by ks1sanger.ac.uk) Kim on April 19, 101 at 01:36:20: Hi everyone My betta lost half of his tail the night before last, I suspect the guppies in my community tank, so I bought him a new tank yesterday, 3 gallons with a heater, filter, couple of plants. I filled it with gravel and water from my community tank and put him in there. His tail hasn't got any worse, but I think the filter might be too powerful for him. It was the smallest one in the shop, and it's down to lowest power, but he still seems to constantly be swimming against it. He can escape the current at the far end of the tank, but he doesn't seem to want to. I've switched the filter off for now cos he looks so sorry for himself being blown around. Would he get out of the way if he wanted to rest? Is there any point having a filter if it's not going to be running constantly? Could I just have it on during the day and let him rest at night? How often and how much of a water change do I need to do with any of these options? I hope someone can help cos I want him to be happy and blow bubbles for me! Cheers! Kim 8795

From: Mike 4/19/00
Subject: Re: Bettas and filters Posted by bettacorneryahoo.com) Mike on April 19, 101 at 10:54:30: Re: (8790.html) Bettas and filters posted by Kim on April 19, 101 at 01:36:20: Bettas do not need filters. You can do a water change once a week about 35% if you are feeding your betta live food. Or change water once every 2 weeks also 35% if you ar feeding dry food. Also please condition water. Your betta need heat though. Around 78-82 degrees. If you want your betta to make bubbles put a floating plant in your tank. I hope this helps.. 8828

From: Kim 4/20/00
Subject: Re: Bettas and filters Posted by ks1sanger.ac.uk) Kim on April 20, 101 at 01:36:27: Re: (8795.html) Re: Bettas and filters posted by Mike on April 19, 101 at 10:54:30: Cheers for the advice guys. I'll take the filter out tonight. He gets freeze dried and frozen food so I guess I'll need to do water changes once a week. The reason I got a filter was because I'd heard that without one you need to do complete water changes, but I was worried how this would affect the plants. I'm a bit worried though cos he seems a lot less active than when he was in my community tank, could he be missing his "friends" even though they've been eating his tail? Or is he just chilling out in peace for a change? 8791

From: koko 4/19/00
Subject: Re: Bettas and filters Posted by kokopaleehotmail.com) koko on April 19, 101 at 07:41:18: Re: (8790.html) Bettas and filters posted by Kim on April 19, 101 at 01:36:20: Bettas dont really need a filter. Just a water change once a week. 8807

From: Kathleen 4/19/00
Subject: Re: Bettas and filters Posted by Kathleen on April 19, 101 at 14:30:12: Re: (8791.html) Re: Bettas and filters posted by koko on April 19, 101 at 07:41:18: I have 2 Bettas. One is in a 3 gallon Eclipse with a filter and bio wheel(also a bubble wand). His tank is cycled. One is in a 2 gallon hex with bubbler. He is changed completely once a week. No they do not need a filter. It just depends on which set up you like best. I find the food moves around a lot so I use the plastic ring of a worm feeder. It creates a calm in the middle of it to put the food in. 8788

From: denise lana 4/18/00
Subject: neons losing color!!! Posted by deniselanahotmail.com) denise lana on April 18, 101 at 20:00:52: i have a completely established, already cycled tank with a dozen neons in it. i've had them for several weeks now, with no problems. until today. i did a 20% water change, and did a very minor gravel cleaning -- nothing severe. all water tests -- ph, ammonia, etc. -- are the same as before, temp. is stable. but i noticed tonight that all my tetras' colors have all but disappeared!!!! help!!! 8799

From: J.B 4/19/00
Subject: Re: neons losing color!!! Posted by J.B on April 19, 101 at 13:56:14: Re: (8788.html) neons losing color!!! posted by denise lana on April 18, 101 at 20:00:52: Try leaving your aqaurium light on for a few hours If that doesn't work add a mineral block to your tank. 8785

From: Allison 4/18/00
Subject: Sick Betta Posted by allie865hotmail.com) Allison on April 18, 101 at 18:38:10: My betta has been sick for about 3 days. At first, I noticed him swimming around on his side and doing flips in the water. SO, that's when I assumed he had a swim bladder infection. I bought some fungus eliminator and he seems to be better with that problem. But now, his eyes are protruding out of his head and he hasn't eaten since he's been sick. I bought some Maracyn-Two for his popeye. He still won't eat, though. I'm just wondering if anyone has had this problem with their bettas and if it's normal. 8796

From: Mike 4/19/00
Subject: Re: Sick Betta Posted by bettacorneryahoo.com) Mike on April 19, 101 at 11:00:13: Re: (8785.html) Sick Betta posted by Allison on April 18, 101 at 18:38:10: Swollen eye is a sickness. For that problem you can use dry banana leafs and some salt. Put your betta in a small jar with the leaf and salt. Leave him there for 2 days and then change 15% water for every 2 days until you see your betta eat healthy again. Even your betta did not eat still try feeding him everyday. 8784

From: LEA 4/18/00
Subject: I want to learn how to breed my bettas Posted by LEAONEALAOL.COM) LEA on April 18, 101 at 17:45:03: Hi, I have a male and female betta. The female does have her white spot under her body. I have seen them mate. She looks like she is expecting, but others say she doesnt. How would I know?....Lea 8781

From: johna 4/18/00
Subject: pregnant swordtail Posted by sky_28043yahoo.com) johna on April 18, 101 at 17:05:58: i've probably have gotten on all yalls nerves talking about this pregnant swordtail of mine, but i'm so ready for her to have her babies and i don't know when to be ready or prepared, i still go to school and all and i need to be sure she don't have them why i'm in school and her and my other fish eat them all. this is going to be my first set of fry and all so i don't know when she'll have them. she's kind of big but that might mean she's ready any time soon so about how big will she be when she's ready and about how long do these things stay pregnant please anybody answer me asap!!!! 8803

From: J.B 4/19/00
Subject: Re: pregnant swordtail Posted by J.B on April 19, 101 at 14:09:37: Re: (8781.html) pregnant swordtail posted by johna on April 18, 101 at 17:05:58: The time she has her babies depends greatly on the temperature of your tank, I would suggest you have a tank temperature of 76-78'F. If this is the temperature she will have her babies about 34 days after becoming pregnant. If the tank is cooler it will be longer. Buy a babby saver from your petstore and let her live in there then when she has her babies you won't need to worry about them getting eaten. 8846

From: johna 4/21/00
Subject: Re: pregnant swordtail Posted by johna on April 21, 101 at 08:45:16: Re: (8803.html) Re: pregnant swordtail posted by J.B on April 19, 101 at 14:09:37: thank you j.b 8778

From: Debbie Jewell 4/18/00
Subject: albino convict Posted by kat_0319702yahoo.com) Debbie Jewell on April 18, 101 at 16:57:41: what can i feed him besides live fish because it is getting to expensive to feed him. 8801

From: J.B 4/19/00
Subject: Re: albino convict Posted by J.B on April 19, 101 at 14:00:22: Re: (8778.html) albino convict posted by Debbie Jewell on April 18, 101 at 16:57:41: Try Chiclid pellets or sinking pellets 8776

From: Tori 4/18/00
Subject: fin rot (important) Posted by valm1988aol.com) Tori on April 18, 101 at 13:50:06: Does anyone know anything about how to treat fin rot on guppies? and how do i tell if it's fin rot or just other fish picking on the guppy? Thank you so much! Tori 8771

From: Rob 4/18/00
Subject: Platies? Posted by ramtng1aol.com) Rob on April 18, 101 at 07:52:52: My platy has a bloody spot on her side, any ideas, as what this is? I'm new with fish as pets. 8802

From: J.B 4/19/00
Subject: Re: Platies? Posted by J.B on April 19, 101 at 14:05:23: Re: (8771.html) Platies? posted by Rob on April 18, 101 at 07:52:52: This might be a body fluke or an anchor worm it may also be fish lice treat it with tricyclyn or Maroxy you should be alble to get them from your local pet store. Your Platy likes salt depending on what other fish you have in the tank you could add some salt. If the platy is your only fish 1 teaspoon to every 5 gallons should be lots. Make sure you use aqaurium, or pickling salt. 8772

From: Tori 4/18/00
Subject: Re: Platies? Posted by valm1988aol.com) Tori on April 18, 101 at 11:36:20: Re: (8771.html) Platies? posted by Rob on April 18, 101 at 07:52:52: There is a couple diseases that I know of that can cause that: Furunculosis: Raised bumps under the scales that eventually rupture and cause bleeding ulcers. Ulcers: Large red lesions, boils, dark reddening and bleeding. I don't know the cure to these, you might have to either ask someone or by a book. You could also check the internet. Tori 8770

From: Deceit101 4/17/00
Subject: Stress Zyme Posted by deceit101msn.com) Deceit101 on April 17, 101 at 23:54:54: Does anyone know if Stresszyme actually works as well as it says? 8789

From: dale 4/18/00
Subject: Re: Stress Zyme Posted by j3remyfuryaol.com) dale on April 18, 101 at 23:25:52: Re: (8770.html) Stress Zyme posted by Deceit101 on April 17, 101 at 23:54:54: i'm thinking the effectiveness of water conditioners(i.e. stress zyme, ammolock, etc) depends on the water condition on your place. Especially those pH adjusters, those things just doesnt work. Some water does not feel any effects of any water conditioner and even making things worst. What you can do is test the water condition on your tap water first. Then after a week or so test the tap water with all the chemicals you put in and see what changes have happened. As I remember, stress zyme is the one that promotes those beneficial bacterias right? I used it, but if I have known before what I know now I wish I never used it. Waste of money(for me). The undergravel filter will do wonders alone if worked with the right amount of washed natural gravel and plants. Just go slow on fish stocking. Let the bacterias keep up with the fish's waste. 8768

From: colcol 4/17/00
Subject: Quarantine new fish before introducing them to aquarium? Posted by colcruzhotmail.com) colcol on April 17, 101 at 23:15:45: I read where it's recommended to quarantine new fish before putting them in the community tank to avoid passing disease to the whole bunch. I was wondering how many really do that--& those of you who don't, have you had problems? 8847

From: Cristi 4/21/00
Subject: Re: Quarantine new fish before introducing them to aquarium? Posted by crstswrtaol.com) Cristi on April 21, 101 at 08:48:31: Re: (8768.html) Quarantine new fish before introducing them to aquarium? posted by colcol on April 17, 101 at 23:15:45: Please disregard my last comment. You SHOULD ALWAYS quarantine new fish!!! I just learned my lesson. A few days ago I bought some new mollies. They didn't appear to have any diseases, and I've never had any problems with fish from this pet store. Well, somebody had a disease (a Mollie disease), and two of my fish died. I've treated the rest, and hopefully I got them in time. I was told that if I quarantined the new fish for atleast a few days I could have prevented this. 8774

From: Cristi 4/18/00
Subject: Re: Quarantine new fish before introducing them to aquarium? Posted by crstswrtaol.com) Cristi on April 18, 101 at 11:47:43: Re: (8768.html) Quarantine new fish before introducing them to aquarium? posted by colcol on April 17, 101 at 23:15:45: I've never done it, and I've never had any problems. As long as you get them from a good pet-store it shouldn't be a problem, and inspect them for signs of disease at the store. 8830

From: vicki 4/20/00
Subject: Re: Quarantine new fish before introducing them to aquarium? Posted by vicki on April 20, 101 at 03:57:16: Re: (8774.html) Re: Quarantine new fish before introducing them to aquarium? posted by Cristi on April 18, 101 at 11:47:43: and never buy fish from a tank where the other fish look unhealthy 8838

From: colcol 4/20/00
Subject: Re: Quarantine new fish before introducing them to aquarium? Posted by colcruzhotmail.com) colcol on April 20, 101 at 21:54:17: Re: (8830.html) Re: Quarantine new fish before introducing them to aquarium? posted by vicki on April 20, 101 at 03:57:16: How about from a tank with blue water! I'm pretty new to this, but a particular pet shop didn't even have a note up, "under medication--not for sale yet". I really think the gal would sell them to anyone & not say a thing. Guess we're wise to learn all we can fast! 8841

From: Vicki 4/21/00
Subject: Re: Quarantine new fish before introducing them to aquarium? Posted by boozynuthotmail.com) Vicki on April 21, 101 at 03:32:56: Re: (8838.html) Re: Quarantine new fish before introducing them to aquarium? posted by colcol on April 20, 101 at 21:54:17: hmmm... through bad experience ive learnt don't trust anyone who seems even the slightest bit dodgy- chances are they don't know what they are talking about! (especially workers in big chain stores- they probably know nothing about fish)your best bet if u havent already is to find a small dealer who genuinely cares about fish- then you'll get good help and advice. my advice would be to steer clear of buying any fish you are the slightest bit unsure about- it might bring new diseases into your tank- then the trouble really begins! (so- if i were u id steer clear of fish under medication too- chances are they have something wrong with them that could harm your other fish) 8840

From: Vicki 4/21/00
Subject: Re: Quarantine new fish before introducing them to aquarium? Posted by boozynuthotmail.com) Vicki on April 21, 101 at 03:27:36: Re: (8838.html) Re: Quarantine new fish before introducing them to aquarium? posted by colcol on April 20, 101 at 21:54:17: hmmm... through bad experience ive learnt don't trust anyone who seems even the slightest bit dodgy- chances are they don't know what they are talking about! (especially workers in big chain stores- they probably know nothing about fish)your best bet if u havent already is to find a small dealer who genuinely cares about fish- then you'll get good help and advice. my advice would be to steer clear of buying any fish you are the slightest bit unsure about- it might bring new diseases into your tank- then the trouble really begins! (so- if i were u id steer clear of fish under medication too- chances are they have something wrong with them that could harm your other fish) 8767

From: Abraham 4/17/00
Subject: Can some please help me ! Kribensis breeding. Posted by abrahaminfruit.agric.za) Abraham on April 17, 101 at 23:11:32: I have bought a pair of Kribensis a few months ago. They have layed eggs, but the eggs never hatch. I have tried everything. I have seperated the male from the female and eggs. I have also seperated the parents from the eggs but they still do not hatch. Can someone please help me? 8805

From: J.B 4/19/00
Subject: Re: Can some please help me ! Kribensis breeding. Posted by J.B on April 19, 101 at 14:16:14: Re: (8767.html) Can some please help me ! Kribensis breeding. posted by Abraham on April 17, 101 at 23:11:32: Your fish are good parents do not seperate either the male or female from the eggs. They should however have their own tank. Try adding a very small dossage of maroxy to keep fungus off the eggs other fungus medicnes should worrk also 8765

From: CB 4/17/00
Subject: Betta's and other fish Posted by clbdimplesearthlink.net) CB on April 17, 101 at 17:30:47: Hi, Could someone please tell me what type of fish get along with Betta's and if it matters whether or not they are male? I do know that it is not advisable to put male Betta's together and I'm not looking to breed, so female Betta's are out. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks. CB 8804

From: J.B 4/19/00
Subject: Re: Betta's and other fish Posted by J.B on April 19, 101 at 14:12:36: Re: (8765.html) Betta's and other fish posted by CB on April 17, 101 at 17:30:47: Your male betta can go with noens and other small tetra's. Keep it away from fish that like eating fins like tiger barbs. It defintly can not go with chiclids or lagre gold fish. 8782

From: johna 4/18/00
Subject: here's some cb. Posted by johna on April 18, 101 at 17:09:15: Re: (8765.html) Betta's and other fish posted by CB on April 17, 101 at 17:30:47: goldfish, mollies, swordtails,and guppies i'm for sure will make good company for the betta because i've got them all together in my 50 gallon tank!! 8766

From: Kathleen 4/17/00
Subject: Re: Betta's and other fish Posted by Kathleen on April 17, 101 at 22:36:05: Re: (8765.html) Betta's and other fish posted by CB on April 17, 101 at 17:30:47: I don't know...ask the Betta expert Barb at http://www.aquamaniacs.net I've seen several posts about this and I am sure she knows the answers. One is not the sailfin molly and no barbs..they are fin nippers but that's all I remember and there was a list. 8764

From: Tori 4/17/00
Subject: license for guppies Posted by valm1988aol.com) Tori on April 17, 101 at 17:06:16: Do I have to have a licence to breed and sell Guppies? thanks 8783

From: johna 4/18/00
Subject: Re: license for guppies Posted by johna on April 18, 101 at 17:10:13: Re: (8764.html) license for guppies posted by Tori on April 17, 101 at 17:06:16: no 8761

From: Michael 4/17/00
Subject: How do you know? (Mollies are ready to give birth) Posted by mghalsteadhotmail.com) Michael on April 17, 101 at 15:53:46: I have a female molly that looks like she is ready to give birth at any moment. When I placed her in a breeder trap, she got extremely stressed out. I have since removed her and no babies yet. Any help? 8773

From: Tori 4/18/00
Subject: Re: How do you know? (Mollies are ready to give birth) Posted by valm1988aol.com) Tori on April 18, 101 at 11:39:49: Re: (8761.html) How do you know? (Mollies are ready to give birth) posted by Michael on April 17, 101 at 15:53:46: Um...well, I have a breeding trap also, and my fish get really stressed out like your mollie. I would put her in there, since there's really nothing that you can do to stop the stress. Or you could leave her it the tank, I've noticed that atleast a few of the babies will survive by hiding in plants and caves. If you do leave her in the tank, make sure that it is heavily planted and caved, also try to put some floating plants in. Tori 8777

From: Michael 4/18/00
Subject: Re: How do you know? (Mollies are ready to give birth) Posted by Michael on April 18, 101 at 13:56:02: Re: (8773.html) Re: How do you know? (Mollies are ready to give birth) posted by Tori on April 18, 101 at 11:39:49: Thanks Tori. I do have quite a few plants in the tank as well as a large geod that serves as a cave for a variety of my fish. Thanks again for your response. 8755

From: Sorren 4/16/00
Subject: New message board???? Posted by Sorren on April 16, 101 at 21:47:21: Since the last time I was here,someone erased ALL my favorite sites off of my favorite list,so has the site changed or is this a different one?I'm having trouble finding all of them again!!!:-( 8756

From: Nick 4/16/00
Subject: Re: New message board???? Posted by Nick on April 16, 101 at 23:38:20: Re: (8755.html) New message board???? posted by Sorren on April 16, 101 at 21:47:21: Same site, just a different message board format. 8786

From: Sorren 4/18/00
Subject: Re: New message board???? Posted by Sorren on April 18, 101 at 19:10:44: Re: (8756.html) Re: New message board???? posted by Nick on April 16, 101 at 23:38:20: Wow,it kinda caught me off guard!:-) 8752

From: amelia 4/16/00
Subject: female betas Posted by jwbakerbigpond.com) amelia on April 16, 101 at 16:36:19: Hi i'm having a few problems with my betas. We purchased a male beta and decided to see how he would go with a red female in a community tank. He didn't make a nest for her and she wasn't interested in him, although he would chase her a couple of times, aswell as the angel we've got in with him. So we introduced a blue female (red female, blue female and blue male)and then all out war!!!!!!! The females attacked each other, the red female took notice of the male by chasing and nipping him, and so we decided to suspend the red female in a glass bowl. He flares up at the red female and chases the blue female. The females stare at each other through the glass and flare up at each other as well as the blue one kinking its tail and doing a shake thing???? Could you please help us in what to do- we want to breed our male but he seems a little violent and doesn't build bubblenests (we have plenty of floating plants, temp is 25 degrees) Are the females ever going to get along if we put them in the tank together?? 8753

From: Crystal 4/16/00
Subject: Re: female betas Posted by Crystal on April 16, 101 at 19:53:09: Re: (8752.html) female betas posted by amelia on April 16, 101 at 16:36:19: I have 6 females and 1 male in my community tank. They will have little spats once in awhile but other than that they are fine. You may want to try getting more females, they do better in a larger group. What size is your tank, do they have hiding places? Some may never get along, I am lucky that I have a good bunch. My current #'s are at 14 bettas in various tanks. I have had other males in w/ the girls and no probs. So far I haven't tried to breed, But have considered it. There is alot of info out there on how to do it. Good Luck!! 8865

From: amelia 4/21/00
Subject: Re: female betas Posted by Blues44Telstra.easymail.com.au) amelia on April 21, 101 at 22:38:22: Re: (8753.html) Re: female betas posted by Crystal on April 16, 101 at 19:53:09: Thanks Crystal Our tank is 12 gallons and we feel that if we put any more fish in it , it will be too overcrowded. So what ratio to one male should their be females? And do you know what the actions of the females mean? Kinking tale and shaking whilst staring at each other, they're both pregnant. 8864

From: amel 4/21/00
Subject: Re: female betas Posted by amel on April 21, 101 at 22:37:15: Re: (8753.html) Re: female betas posted by Crystal on April 16, 101 at 19:53:09: Thanks Crystal Our tank is 12 gallons and we feel that if we put any more fish in it , it will be too overcrowded. So what ratio to one male should their be females? And do you know what the actions of the females mean? Kinking tale and shaking whilst staring at each other, they're both pregnant. 8751

From: amelia 4/16/00
Subject: female betas Posted by jwbakerbigpond.com) amelia on April 16, 101 at 16:31:26: Hi i'm having a few broblems with my betas. We purchased a male beta and decided to see how he would go with a red female in a community tank. He didn't make a nest for her and she wasn't interested in him, although he'd chase her a couple of time, aswell as the angel we've got in with him. So we introduced a blue female and then all out war!!!!!!! The females attacked each other, the red female took notice of the male by chasing an nipping him, and so we decided to suspend the red female in a glass bowl. He flares up at he and also the blue female chasing her. The female stare at each other through the glass and flare at each other as well as the blue one kinking its tail and doimg a shake thing???? Could you please help us in what to do- we want to breed our male but he seems a little violent and doesn't build bubblenests (we have plenty of floating plants) Are the females ever going to get along if we put them in the tank again?? 8747

From: Bob 4/16/00
Subject: Oscars Posted by Bob on April 16, 101 at 12:21:02: Can I get 4 tiger oscars and a common pleco in a 300 gallon tank? 8754

From: Gordon 4/16/00
Subject: Re: Oscars Posted by niceguy-029webtv.net) Gordon on April 16, 101 at 20:17:42: Re: (8747.html) Oscars posted by Bob on April 16, 101 at 12:21:02: Im sure that would be fine. It sound like you could even add a fue more fish without any problum. Hope this helps have a good day. 8749

From: Jada 4/16/00
Subject: Re: Oscars Posted by Jadajo80aol.com) Jada on April 16, 101 at 14:52:21: Re: (8747.html) Oscars posted by Bob on April 16, 101 at 12:21:02: Oscars need at least 25 gallons a peice. i think an average of 60 gallons per fish will be fine 8746

From: johna 4/16/00
Subject: pregnant swordtail Posted by sky_28043yahoo.com) johna on April 16, 101 at 10:40:51: i got a swordtail a couple days ago and the clerk said she was pregnant i didn't ask how far along she was, she's pretty big but not huge or anything her bellies a little pouched out and i was wondering about how long do swordtails stay pregnant so i'll know when to be prepared. 8750

From: Jada 4/16/00
Subject: Re: pregnant swordtail Posted by Jadajo80aol.com) Jada on April 16, 101 at 14:58:11: Re: (8746.html) pregnant swordtail posted by johna on April 16, 101 at 10:40:51: well guppies stay pregnant about a month and i think swordtails are in the same type family... livebearers and all but they may stay pregnant a little longer but maybe this will give you something to work with 8742

From: darlene 4/16/00
Subject: sick red eye tetra Posted by dhaddadthefoliogroup.com) darlene on April 16, 101 at 05:41:59: I have a red-eye tetra that has been swimming almost completely vertically (head upwards) and now he is completely crashed on the bottom of the tank,exhausted. He's been lying there for 4 days, he'll move his position every once in a while. The other fish in the tank are fine. I don't know much about fish as I kind of "inherited" these fish from a roomate that moved out. Is this fish beyond help? I feel really bad, and will feel worse if he dies and there was a chance that I could have helped him. I'm afraid to move him, I hate to cause him any more stress, I'm also afraid to put anything in the water because the other fish seem fine. This fish is probably about 4 years old. Someone suggested he had a stroke due to old age. Any suggestions? Thanks! 8759

From: vixen 4/17/00
Subject: Re: sick red eye tetra Posted by vixen on April 17, 101 at 11:03:16: Re: (8742.html) sick red eye tetra posted by darlene on April 16, 101 at 05:41:59: Yeah, that is what happened to my glass tetra a couple weeks ago. I had him for at least 5 years. His color became cloudy and he was vertical most of the time and could barely swim. I waited 3 days but then decided that it was time for him to go. I euthanized him by putthing him a cup of his water and adding some shots of scotch to his tank. I think it is a good humane way for the fish to go, besides freezing. 8760

From: darlene 4/17/00
Subject: Re: sick red eye tetra Posted by dhaddadthefoliogroup.com) darlene on April 17, 101 at 11:19:35: Re: (8759.html) Re: sick red eye tetra posted by vixen on April 17, 101 at 11:03:16: thanks for the advice! 8741

From: Nice Guy Gordon 4/15/00
Subject: Hello everyone im new here Posted by niceguy-029wevtv.net) Nice Guy Gordon on April 15, 101 at 22:29:13: Hi there. How are you all? My name is Gordon and im from Oregon. I have a new 55gal. tank that has just got through its cycle. I have stocked it with 12 three inch Malawi african cichlids.They are doing great. I got all my fish from a local african cichlid breeder for one dollar a fish. Just thought that I would let you all know a little bit about myself. If you like this message board you will love www.fishroom.com give it a try you won't be disapointed. Thanks and have a great day. 8743

From: johna 4/16/00
Subject: Re: welcome Posted by sky_28043yahoo.com) johna on April 16, 101 at 10:32:49: Re: (8741.html) Hello everyone im new here posted by Nice Guy Gordon on April 15, 101 at 22:29:13: hey welcome to the new message board!!! if you need something answered everybody's friendly and will answer your questions asap. 8739

From: Jada 4/15/00
Subject: algae solution Posted by Jadajo80aol.com) Jada on April 15, 101 at 20:17:00: what do you guys think of that stuff in a bottle to get rid of algae? does it work or help and is it bad for the fish? how often should you use it? how does it work ? thanks 8819

From: J.B 4/19/00
Subject: Re: algae solution Posted by J.B on April 19, 101 at 17:24:50: Re: (8739.html) algae solution posted by Jada on April 15, 101 at 20:17:00: I tried some of that stuff a while ago it didn't seem to do anything to my fish (I had a bunch of neons at the time) It didn't really work that great. I guess it might have made a bit of a difference. 8757

From: Nick 4/16/00
Subject: Re: algae solution Posted by Nick on April 16, 101 at 23:40:36: Re: (8739.html) algae solution posted by Jada on April 15, 101 at 20:17:00: If they work at all (sometimes they don't), they're just a temporary fix. And they are more chemicals that fish don't need to swim in. Algae problems should be solved at the source - high nitrates, high phosphates, over feeding, lighting, etc... 8733

From: matthew 4/15/00
Subject: cycling problem Posted by matthoffbrandeis.edu) matthew on April 15, 101 at 16:48:46: i began my tank on 3/18, not knowing about cycling (i put fish in probably 5 days later). as time has gone on, i've been learning about cycling. i put in over half the total # of fish i can have (29 gallon tank; over half as many inches worth). a friend has been giving me info about cycling now, and i've been trying to monitor it. recently, my 3 clown loaches died, most likely due to the environment. my ammonia is down to zero. however, my nitrates are incredibly high (50-100+ ppm), and my nitrites are somewhere between .2 and 1 ppm (tough to gauge). i'm wondering if anyone has any advice as to where along the cycling process i am, and how i can get my nitrates down. i want to start doing more with the tank, but not until i've got this worked out. 8734

From: Nick 4/15/00
Subject: DO WATER CHANGE NOW Posted by Nick on April 15, 101 at 16:59:05: Re: (8733.html) cycling problem posted by matthew on April 15, 101 at 16:48:46: If you have that much nitrate, then your tank is nearly cycled. It will be completely cycled when you have no nitrite. You must do water change NOW to get the nitrates down below 20ppm. Do a 50% water change now, and then maybe 10% every day following until you get it down. An established tank should always have nitrate levels below 10ppm. Have you checked your tap water for nitrates? If it doesn't have any, then you'll know for sure that your nitrates are coming from the cycling tank. 8740

From: matthew 4/15/00
Subject: Re: DO WATER CHANGE NOW Posted by matthoffbrandeis.edu) matthew on April 15, 101 at 22:10:35: Re: (8734.html) DO WATER CHANGE NOW posted by Nick on April 15, 101 at 16:59:05: i did the 50% water change and tested my tap water. it appears to have nitrates between 0 and 2.5 ppm. the water in my area is definitely questionable..they made a movie about how it may very well have caused cancer in some people in the 70s, so the presence of nitrates wouldn't surprise me at all. what does this mean for my tank, and what can i do in the meantime to monitor and/or speed this cycling process? 8758

From: Nick 4/16/00
Subject: Re: DO WATER CHANGE NOW Posted by Nick on April 16, 101 at 23:51:42: Re: (8740.html) Re: DO WATER CHANGE NOW posted by matthew on April 15, 101 at 22:10:35: Since you have no ammonia and almost no nitrite, your tank is almost completely cycled. Nitrates should be kept below 10-20ppm by doing regular water changes. I never saw that Erin B movie...but the low amount of nitrate in your tap water shouldn't be a problem when doing water changes to reduce nitrates in your tank (ie, if your tank water has 10ppm nitrate, then doing a water change with tap water with 2.5ppm will still lower the nitrates in your tank). Keep measuring ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate daily until you only have nitrates. Then your tank will be fully cycled. There's no way to speed it up, so just let it ride. Don't add anymore fish. Let everything stabilize for a few weeks. Be sure that the fish you have now won't overgrow your tank, as the calculations for total # of fish your tank can support is dependent on adult size of fish, fish body type, and fish behavior. 8727

From: Cam 4/15/00
Subject: Help...on Bala Sharks Posted by redneck69906hotmail.com) Cam on April 15, 101 at 11:51:29: I have a prob. My Bala Sharks keep dieing. The first time i had one i had it for about 2 years and it was about 12 inches long, i moved to california, me and my gf set up a tank and she got some fish and i got a (1) Bala Shark, and it did good for about 2 months and then one morning i woke up and it was flowting. So i went and got 2 more, after changeing the water, they were about the same size as the other one (4-5in) and they died weekin a week, so i returned them and had my water tested. ammo was fine, nit was fine, but the ph was high (7.6) so i bought some ph stuff and tested the water my self and it was at 7.0 and i waited a few days and tested again and it was still 7.0 so i went down and bought to more Bala Sharks one about 4in and the other was 2in. I had them about two days, when i saw that the smaller one was swimmin funny and then it died, the bigger one was just "sittin" in one spot but still swimming, this morning it was dead. Can ne one tell me what im doin wrong? or should i just buy the fish from a different store. The store i bought from was PETsMART. Oh and the other fish are fine.