From: Angel 8/25/2000
Subject: Sad news for some swordtails
Posted by WChester3@juno.com) Angel on August 25, 2000 at 10:00:29:
Some of my swords i bought yesterday got eaten by my cat:(
12558
From: zabeth 8/25/2000
Subject: Re: Sad news for some swordtails
Posted by zabeth on August 25, 2000 at 11:05:41:
Re: (12557.html) Sad news for some swordtails
Posted by Angel on August 25, 2000 at 10:00:29:
cat as in furry four foot meow? or cat as in big ugly fish? :P
sorry about the swords :(
12560
From: Angel 8/25/2000
Subject: Re: Sad news for some swordtails
Posted by WChester3@juno.com) Angel on August 25, 2000 at 11:30:46:
Re: (12558.html) Re: Sad news for some swordtails
Posted by zabeth on August 25, 2000 at 11:05:41:
As in four legged kind, want to string in a tree kind.
12552
From: Angel 8/25/2000
Subject: want to get rid of mollies any suggestions
Posted by WChester3@juno.com) Angel on August 25, 2000 at 09:46:40:
I have to many mollies and I don't know what to do..
12561
From: *~~*fireice*~~* 8/25/2000
Subject: Re: want to get rid of mollies any suggestions
Posted by fire_and_ice_7@hotmail.com) *~~*fireice*~~* on August 25, 2000 at 12:34:00:
Re: (12552.html) want to get rid of mollies any suggestions
Posted by Angel on August 25, 2000 at 09:46:40:
for getting rid of fish, I'd reccomend posting a free classified add on the internet. these are easy to find, there was a really good one I found but forgot the address. sorry :(
or, you could put up flyers in local stores, or give/sell them to your LFS.
you could also "terminate" them, but it's really gross, and I would only use it as a last resort
12563
From: Eddie 8/25/2000
Subject: Re: want to get rid of mollies any suggestions
Posted by Eddie on August 25, 2000 at 13:52:27:
Re: (12561.html) Re: want to get rid of mollies any suggestions
Posted by *~~*fireice*~~* on August 25, 2000 at 12:34:00:
or get some other fish like angels or something if you have a big enough tank and feed the mollies to them. or what fireice said, sell them to your LFS, won't get much though
12564
From: Angel 8/25/2000
Subject: Re: want to get rid of mollies any suggestions
Posted by WChester3@juno.com) Angel on August 25, 2000 at 14:11:50:
Re: (12563.html) Re: want to get rid of mollies any suggestions
Posted by Eddie on August 25, 2000 at 13:52:27:
What does LFS mean? And I had my friend ask me if he could use them for fish bait, I'm thinking on what to do with them
12546
From: *~~*fire ice*~~* 8/25/2000
Subject: are aerators necessary?
Posted by fire_and_ice_7@hotmail.com) *~~*fire ice*~~* on August 25, 2000 at 09:37:00:
Hi, I'm going to set up another 10-gal tank with some guppies in it, and I was wondering if they *really* need an aerator(I've already got the gravel, heater, etc.) also, without an aerator, what would your reccomendation be for the # of fish
P.S. Could I use sand instead of gravel if I boiled & rinsed it first?
Thanks!
12559
From: zabeth 8/25/2000
Subject: Re: are aerators necessary?
Posted by apathesia@aol.com) zabeth on August 25, 2000 at 11:22:41:
Re: (12546.html) are aerators necessary?
Posted by *~~*fire ice*~~* on August 25, 2000 at 09:37:00:
The water pumping action of your filter and the turbulance of the water falling back into the tank should create enough turbulance to provide gas exchange/aeration... BUT
in my opinion, you'd be wise to add an airstone or two to the tank, especially in the warmer months when there's less oxygen in the H20. I prefer to err on the side of *too much* than *too little* -- better safe than sorry and all that jazz :) STRONG aeration aids in the treatment of some diseases and some water treatments require it for an hour or so after the tank's been dosed...
As for the sand, yes, you could use it. I'd advise against it though as I imagine it's a pain to clean :P
12550
From: Scuba Steve 8/25/2000
Subject: Re: are aerators necessary?
Posted by Scuba Steve on August 25, 2000 at 09:43:19:
Re: (12546.html) are aerators necessary?
Posted by *~~*fire ice*~~* on August 25, 2000 at 09:37:00:
No they don't really need an aerator and I would recommend about 5-6 fish. Also, I wouldn't use sand just because I have had bad luck (ex: algae, toxins, etc.) with it. Good Luck.
12542
From: Angel 8/24/2000
Subject: FILTER STOPPED WORKING WHAT TO DO
Posted by WChester3@juno.com) Angel on August 24, 2000 at 22:25:13:
My filter stopped working on my 55gal tank and I don't know what to do somebody help me, The fishes are doing fine
12548
From: Karen 8/25/2000
Subject: Bummer
Posted by PKCSPT@CS.COM) Karen on August 25, 2000 at 09:41:05:
Re: (12542.html) FILTER STOPPED WORKING WHAT TO DO
Posted by Angel on August 24, 2000 at 22:25:13:
First, all your good bacteria have probably died.
Take the pump all apart and clean it real well. If it is an air pump you may need a new rubber duehickey (diaphram?) thing. If it is one that hangs on the back a good cleaning might do it. Be sure and get the propeller out. If it one of the magnums someone else will have to help as I have never used one.
If this does not do it you will have to get a new one.
Now, if it is a pump hooked up to a UGF you will have to vacum your gravel very thoroughly. If it is a hang on the back put new filtering media in. You do not want to use any of the old. If you have a filter on another tank all cycled you can take a part of that to jump start your new filter cutting back on your cycling time. Otherwise you will be recycling this tank all over again.
12555
From: Angel 8/25/2000
Subject: Re: Bummer
Posted by WChester3@juno.com) Angel on August 25, 2000 at 09:52:41:
Re: (12548.html) Bummer
Posted by Karen on August 25, 2000 at 09:41:05:
I'm the type of person to take apart stuff and can't put it together. Plus my boyfriend knows how to do this and he pick a bad time to go see family. I have another filter but it's used for the baby swords... The fish seem fine they are acting normal.
12545
From: Chris 8/25/2000
Subject: Re: FILTER STOPPED WORKING WHAT TO DO
Posted by Chris on August 25, 2000 at 07:42:18:
Re: (12542.html) FILTER STOPPED WORKING WHAT TO DO
Posted by Angel on August 24, 2000 at 22:25:13:
I would say that you need to get some air in there. My lights were out when I got back from vacation and not knowing how long they had been out, I wanted to make sure they had enough air. So what I did was blow air into there tank threw an airhose. A piece right off of the air pump works just fine. Or if you don't have that you could use a straw. Hope this works until you get to the store to get a new pump.
12547
From: Angel 8/25/2000
Subject: Re: FILTER STOPPED WORKING WHAT TO DO
Posted by WChester3@juno.com) Angel on August 25, 2000 at 09:37:38:
Re: (12545.html) Re: FILTER STOPPED WORKING WHAT TO DO
Posted by Chris on August 25, 2000 at 07:42:18:
I have a windmill that blow bubbles would that help..
12540
From: Rich 8/24/2000
Subject: can swordtails and platies produce?
Posted by Rich on August 24, 2000 at 21:34:08:
I have a pair of swordtails and two female paties in a tank. The male swordtail keeps chasing after one of the female platy, as if he wanted to mate with her. Even though if the male swordtail is sucessful, will the eggs inside of the platy developed into young fry?
12562
From: Eddie 8/25/2000
Subject: Re: can swordtails and platies produce?
Posted by Eddie on August 25, 2000 at 13:48:03:
Re: (12540.html) can swordtails and platies produce?
Posted by Rich on August 24, 2000 at 21:34:08:
yes, but to me it is not a right thing to let happen. i would keep livebearers seperate.
12541
From: Angel 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: can swordtails and platies produce?
Posted by WChester3@juno.com) Angel on August 24, 2000 at 21:54:32:
Re: (12540.html) can swordtails and platies produce?
Posted by Rich on August 24, 2000 at 21:34:08:
Yes they can I should know I have bunch of swords/platy mixed. They reproduce lke mollies..
12549
From: Karen 8/25/2000
Subject: Re: can swordtails and platies produce?
Posted by PKCSPT@Cs.COM) Karen on August 25, 2000 at 09:42:25:
Re: (12541.html) Re: can swordtails and platies produce?
Posted by Angel on August 24, 2000 at 21:54:32:
Many of the swordtail varietys and mollie varietys and platys are a mix. That is why if you buy them from a petstore you never really know what the babies will be.
12538
From: Angel 8/24/2000
Subject: want to experament with some swordtails of a differnt color
Posted by WChester3@juno.com) Angel on August 24, 2000 at 20:48:28:
I want to see what the babies look like with two diffent colors and the colors are a red swordtail and a grayish yellow swordtail. So anybody that knows about swordtails would help me please
12534
From: Angel 8/24/2000
Subject: will neon tetras eat live babies
Posted by WChester3@juno.com) Angel on August 24, 2000 at 18:29:55:
I have a tank of baby swordtails and i got some neons, will the neons eat the babies..
12536
From: Eddie 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: will neon tetras eat live babies
Posted by Eddie on August 24, 2000 at 19:53:20:
Re: (12534.html) will neon tetras eat live babies
Posted by Angel on August 24, 2000 at 18:29:55:
i would say so, my friend has some neons with his guppies. the neons wouldn't be able to EAT the guppy fry but they would constantly haress it trying to eat it until it dies.
12551
From: karen 8/25/2000
Subject: General rule of fish
Posted by PKCSPT@CS.COM) karen on August 25, 2000 at 09:44:40:
Re: (12536.html) Re: will neon tetras eat live babies
Posted by Eddie on August 24, 2000 at 19:53:20:
If it is small enough to fit in my mouth and I can catch it I will eat it.
12556
From: Angel 8/25/2000
Subject: Re: General rule of fish
Posted by WChester3@juno.com) Angel on August 25, 2000 at 09:56:04:
Re: (12551.html) General rule of fish
Posted by karen on August 25, 2000 at 09:44:40:
I took the tetras out of the babies tank because they were stressing the babies
12544
From: Angel 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: will neon tetras eat live babies
Posted by WChester3@juno.com) Angel on August 24, 2000 at 22:29:16:
Re: (12536.html) Re: will neon tetras eat live babies
Posted by Eddie on August 24, 2000 at 19:53:20:
You were right about the tetra chasing the babies.
12537
From: Angel 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: will neon tetras eat live babies
Posted by WChester3@juno.com) Angel on August 24, 2000 at 20:38:01:
Re: (12536.html) Re: will neon tetras eat live babies
Posted by Eddie on August 24, 2000 at 19:53:20:
So far they haven't even started chasing the babies..
12543
From: Angel 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: will neon tetras eat live babies
Posted by WChester3@juno.com) Angel on August 24, 2000 at 22:27:24:
Re: (12537.html) Re: will neon tetras eat live babies
Posted by Angel on August 24, 2000 at 20:38:01:
I took the tetras out cause they started to chase the babies.
12528
From: T 8/24/2000
Subject: Aquarium Trim
Posted by twill@netzero.net) T on August 24, 2000 at 14:58:02:
Received the trim from All-Glass. I tried cutting the silicon on the old tank, but it was not an easy job. They suggested using a single edge razor, but one of those skinny, flexible steak knives (w/o the serated edge) seemed to work better. After being careful not to scratch the glass, I finally got the old trim off. It came off fairly easy after cutting through the old silicon. I peeled off all of the old silicon (as much as I could), put a new bead around the new trim, and slipped it on the tank. I let it dry for a day, and the tank is as good as new. Total time was about 1 hr 15 min. Not bad. I had to put the clown loaches in a large cooler while I fixed the tank. They were not happy.
12516
From: Rodrigo 8/24/2000
Subject: Urgent, what should I do?
Posted by ssj3pheonix@socal.rr.com) Rodrigo on August 24, 2000 at 13:17:04:
We've had goldfish for about 3 months now (2 males 2 females) just today when I checked the tank I found 4 very small fish swimming at the top of the tank, what sould I do?
12520
From: Karen 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: Urgent, what should I do?
Posted by PKCSPT@CS.COM) Karen on August 24, 2000 at 14:32:26:
Re: (12516.html) Urgent, what should I do?
Posted by Rodrigo on August 24, 2000 at 13:17:04:
Are you saying four new fish or the four you have are swimming at the top. You said small so i am going with the assumption we are talking new babies?
Then I go with what Angel said, put them in a separate tank.
12526
From: Rodrigo 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: Urgent, what should I do?
Posted by ssj3pheonix@socal.rr.com) Rodrigo on August 24, 2000 at 14:42:08:
Re: (12520.html) Re: Urgent, what should I do?
Posted by Karen on August 24, 2000 at 14:32:26:
I have already moved them to a seperate tank, they are babies.My question is, what should I do to make sure they survive and grow normally?
12553
From: Karen 8/25/2000
Subject: Re: Urgent, what should I do?
Posted by PKCSPT@CS.COM) Karen on August 25, 2000 at 09:47:15:
Re: (12526.html) Re: Urgent, what should I do?
Posted by Rodrigo on August 24, 2000 at 14:42:08:
keep them in a very clean tank with a stable temperature. Feed them baby brine shrimp frozen daphnia and goldfish food soaked in water til it is a little mushy. Mashed peas.
the idea is small enough to fit in their mouths, and more frequent feedings.
12533
From: Angel 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: Urgent, what should I do?
Posted by WChester3@juno.com) Angel on August 24, 2000 at 18:19:03:
Re: (12526.html) Re: Urgent, what should I do?
Posted by Rodrigo on August 24, 2000 at 14:42:08:
how you feed them if your feeding flakes you add a water to the flake and feed them to the babies..
12517
From: Angel 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: Urgent, what should I do?
Posted by WChester3@juno.com) Angel on August 24, 2000 at 13:30:14:
Re: (12516.html) Urgent, what should I do?
Posted by Rodrigo on August 24, 2000 at 13:17:04:
You should put the little fish in a seperate tank
12515
From: Angel 8/24/2000
Subject: Got new fish in the tank
Posted by WChester3@juno.com) Angel on August 24, 2000 at 12:29:48:
I just got back from the pet store and got alot of swordtails for a 1.00 I don't know if that a good deal or what..
12521
From: Karen 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: Got new fish in the tank
Posted by PKCSPT@CS.COM) Karen on August 24, 2000 at 14:33:30:
Re: (12515.html) Got new fish in the tank
Posted by Angel on August 24, 2000 at 12:29:48:
Seems to me you are buying a lot of swords. What size tank or tanks are we putting them in?
Around here $1 for 1 fish would be a bargain.
12532
From: Angel 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: Got new fish in the tank
Posted by WChester3@juno.com) Angel on August 24, 2000 at 18:12:37:
Re: (12521.html) Re: Got new fish in the tank
Posted by Karen on August 24, 2000 at 14:33:30:
20 fish for a dollar alot of swordtails and some dalmation mollies, they are babies, that what the petstore people told me
12554
From: Karen 8/25/2000
Subject: Re: Got new fish in the tank
Posted by PKCSPT@CS.COM) Karen on August 25, 2000 at 09:49:00:
Re: (12532.html) Re: Got new fish in the tank
Posted by Angel on August 24, 2000 at 18:12:37:
Hope you have a large tank or several tanks for all these guys.
You must really like swordtails, maybe you will come up with a new variety with all the messing around with breeding different types.
12510
From: lloyd_ii 8/24/2000
Subject: tiger barbs and ph level
Posted by lloyd_ii@hotmail.com) lloyd_ii on August 24, 2000 at 09:03:23:
first question, does anybody know anything about the breeding and of barbs, i think one might be preg. but i am not sure. the second question is this, my ph is somewhere around 8.2 and i can not lower it, i have tried the ph decreasers but they don't help. Can fish get used to a higher ph and strive or will they never be as healthy as they could be?
12522
From: Karen 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: tiger barbs and ph level
Posted by PKCSPT@CS.COM) Karen on August 24, 2000 at 14:35:37:
Re: (12510.html) tiger barbs and ph level
Posted by lloyd_ii on August 24, 2000 at 09:03:23:
First, your barb is not pregnant in that sense of the word. She could be full of eggs however. Barbs are egg scatters, I believe they all scatter verses laying.
Second, of all the barbs I have kept I have not had a problem. My ph is between 8.0-8.5.
12507
From: Karen 8/24/2000
Subject: Anybody good at finding websites?
Posted by PKCSPT@CS.COM) Karen on August 24, 2000 at 08:23:56:
Here is what I am looking for. Two different things.
Biotope or geographic aquariums. I have found about three websites and all they do is tell me what they are. I am looking for how a certain biotope should be set up. Example would be for Angels. What is their wild area and what is in it.
Second is brackish water aquariums. I have one setup that I love, but I would like to know more about the kind of fish that live in these areas and again how it should be set up to loook "natural". (Yeah, like there is anything natural about a glass box.)
12518
From: zabeth 8/24/2000
Subject: not sure if you've been here
Posted by zabeth on August 24, 2000 at 14:05:34:
Re: (12507.html) Anybody good at finding websites?
Posted by Karen on August 24, 2000 at 08:23:56:
not sure if you've been to this site or if it will give you what you need, but it's worth a shot. (http://badman2nd.tripod.com/biotope/biotope6.html" target="new) badman2nd.tripod.com/biotope/biotope6.html
scroll down a bit and you'll find examples/suggestions for various biotopes, including plants, fish, etc. i haven't really checked it out so i can't offer an opinion.
also, (http://freshaquarium.about.com/cs/aquascaping1/" target="new) freshaquarium.about.com/cs/aquascaping1/ might be of some use, though i haven't looked at the linked articles at all.
12524
From: Karen 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: not sure if you've been here
Posted by PKCSPT@CS.COM) Karen on August 24, 2000 at 14:38:11:
Re: (12518.html) not sure if you've been here
Posted by zabeth on August 24, 2000 at 14:05:34:
The second one looks interesting, have not seen that one before. Thank you.
12490
From: Karen 8/23/2000
Subject: I like it when
Posted by PKCSPT@CS.COM) Karen on August 23, 2000 at 19:20:40:
I really like it when people check back in after asking for advice and tell us how their fish are doing.
12511
From: Michelle 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: I like it when
Posted by Michelle on August 24, 2000 at 09:04:26:
Re: (12490.html) I like it when
Posted by Karen on August 23, 2000 at 19:20:40:
That pic. of Bobo looked better when I was typing it - the post put everything to the left - it's suppose to be a Betta (- :
12509
From: Michelle 8/24/2000
Subject: Nitrites still up
Posted by devadust@yahoo.com) Michelle on August 24, 2000 at 09:01:33:
Re: (12490.html) I like it when
Posted by Karen on August 23, 2000 at 19:20:40:
Karen, Bobo is still surviving. He eats fine.
Yesterday his Nitrites were up to 2. ppm and I did a 30% water change to try and help (yes I added aquarium salt (-;) I have had Bobo since 7/24/01 and he was in a hospital tank for two of those weeks, so I guess I have to start all over with the whole cycling issue - right? Hey, I read that the helpful bacteria that helps get the tank cycled stays in the tank gravel - what if I have no gravel? I always take the water out from the bottom, so am I taking out the good bacteria?
Anyway - just to let you know, Bobo is still swimming, but not so weird anymore and looks healthy - as far as I can tell:
He sends you a message:
\
\\
~~~))))*< Thanks for all your help Karen!
//
/
12525
From: Karen 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: Nitrites still up
Posted by PKCSPT@CS.COM) Karen on August 24, 2000 at 14:41:53:
Re: (12509.html) Nitrites still up
Posted by Michelle on August 24, 2000 at 09:01:33:
Glad he is looking better.
Your welcome Bobo
Anyway, I understand that the bacteria also sticks to the glass and ornaments that are in and a part of the tank. Now I am not a scientist and have done no experiments to see if this is true or not. But with regular water changes you are doing the work of a lot of the bacteria so it is not such a problem.
12492
From: zabeth 8/23/2000
Subject: me too N/M
Posted by zabeth on August 23, 2000 at 19:41:16:
Re: (12490.html) I like it when
Posted by Karen on August 23, 2000 at 19:20:40:
n/m
12486
From: Angel 8/23/2000
Subject: hand made pots in afish tank
Posted by WChester3@juno.com) Angel on August 23, 2000 at 19:12:03:
I've made something like a cave can I put it in my fish tank, It's been glazed so I don't know if the glaze will hurt the fish.
12503
From: Karen 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: hand made pots in afish tank
Posted by PKCSPT@CS.COM) Karen on August 24, 2000 at 07:58:59:
Re: (12486.html) hand made pots in afish tank
Posted by Angel on August 23, 2000 at 19:12:03:
I don't know if I would. I do not know if the glaze you used is non toxic. And even if it is I do not know if it is non toxic to fish. And I do not know if the material you made the cave from is either.
12483
From: Angel 8/23/2000
Subject: Swordtal picking on female
Posted by WChester3@juno.com) Angel on August 23, 2000 at 19:01:47:
My boyfriend just bought a teal color swordtail and it's picking on my female, and it's fighting my other males, my other swordtail male that the new one was born to my female, could that be called domianace or something
12501
From: Karen 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: Swordtal picking on female
Posted by PKCSPT@CS.COM) Karen on August 24, 2000 at 07:56:58:
Re: (12483.html) Swordtal picking on female
Posted by Angel on August 23, 2000 at 19:01:47:
Males will get aggressive with each other.
If you don't see damgage to one of the fish or one hovering in a corner in stress I would not be too concerned.
12481
From: eb 8/23/2000
Subject: pH and all dat stuff equipment
Posted by eb on August 23, 2000 at 18:50:25:
i know different fish need differnet pH etc. levels and i wuz wonderin' if i REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLLLLLLLLLYYYYYYYYYYYYY need the equipment to find dat out or if it's not a big concern
just so y'know:
i gotta 10 gal with 5 neon tetras, 5 cardinal tetras and a betta (male).
12498
From: Mary 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: pH and all dat stuff equipment
Posted by Mary on August 24, 2000 at 06:33:39:
Re: (12481.html) pH and all dat stuff equipment
Posted by eb on August 23, 2000 at 18:50:25:
You can asked your LFS what's the ph in your area. However, ph can be affected by neglected maintenance, uneaten food, fish waste etc. So making water changes after neglect will mean your ph will be different than the tab and a difference of 2 is shocking to fish and can cause death or at the very lease a very sick fish. That is the reason its important to check the ph. MOST fishes can be acclimated to a ph, but others such as Mollies, Rams and others I don't know about cannot be conditioned to accept the change, they will sooner rather than later become ill and die. I just lost 3 beautiful Blue Rams for no apparent reason. Yes I did buy them not knowing anything about them. They died after one month. I thought that since I bought them in my area they were alright with the ph. So I say yes get the test kit because ph can change and above all buy fishes that can live with the ph out of your tab.
12487
From: Karen 8/23/2000
Subject: Re: pH and all dat stuff equipment
Posted by PKCSPT@CS.COM) Karen on August 23, 2000 at 19:12:42:
Re: (12481.html) pH and all dat stuff equipment
Posted by eb on August 23, 2000 at 18:50:25:
Most people will say yesyesyesyes.
I however have kept fish for many many years and never knew what my ph and ammonia and all that was.
The downfall. yes there is one.
If trying to breed many fish you find out the hard way you can't.
many times you buy a fsih only to find out it won't stay alive for you.
I did find out my ph is 8.0-8.5, somewhere in between. Since I choose not to try lowering my ph I do not keep fish I know don't tolerate hard water. You can take a sample in to most fish stores and they will test it for you.
I also do very regular water changes, daily. But even if you only do them weekly on a tank that is not over stocked, 20-25% water volume the ammonia should not get to high.
I am sure this is going to raise the ire of many that I dare say I don't test. Why, what is my reason? I do not want to spend money on tests that I would rather spend on their food and mine. Plus, this hobby is expensive enough, too expensive. Beginners and kids, especially kids need to keep the cost down. I do not believe this hobby has to be so expensive.
I have found good tank maintanence does the job just fine, my fish are fat healthy and brightly colored and breeding.
Do I recomend a person not test, probably not. I know I keep up my maintanence and know what to look for in my fish should things start getting a littel wacky.
So yes, you probably should test. Do you have to, probably not.
12493
From: zabeth 8/23/2000
Subject: ire. heh.
Posted by apathesia@aol.com) zabeth on August 23, 2000 at 19:57:53:
Re: (12487.html) Re: pH and all dat stuff equipment
Posted by Karen on August 23, 2000 at 19:12:42:
I'm not going to say anything about YOU not testing because you've been keeping fish for awhile, YOU offer good advice and YOU obviously know what you're doing.
But I TOTALLY disagree with the following:
"... this hobby is expensive enough, too expensive. Beginners and kids, especially kids need to keep the cost down."
Yes, this hobby does get expensive, but I'm sure everyone is well aware of the cost before they jump into it. If anyone needs to keep the cost down, they should bypass the fish store and pick up an ant farm or a stuffed cat :P
Beginners and kids ((and everyone else, in my never humble opinion, but mainly beginners and kids)) need test kits, for the simple reason that they're clueless about water quality and I'm sick of seeing "ohmygod i dumped 196 fish into my 1/2 gal tank yesterday and their fins are gone and they've got ich and they're dancing the electric slide, omygod, WHAT DO I DOOOOO!@" posts :P
ok, that was my weak attempt at ire. but i'm sleepy, so it was a bit off.
12504
From: Karen 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: ire. heh.
Posted by PKCSPT@CS.COM) Karen on August 24, 2000 at 08:07:53:
Re: (12493.html) ire. heh.
Posted by zabeth on August 23, 2000 at 19:57:53:
That is why I said in my post a couple of times you probably should. It is also why I don't often go into my not testing, but if someone asks.
However, I honestly do not believe this hobby HAS to be so darn expensive.
It should not just be for the rich and famous.
I feel that along with telling people about all the stuff out there we should also inform those that ask how to do it on a budget. It just really grinds me at how outrageously expensive this hobby is becomeing. Partly this is real personal to me. If I bought all that stuff I could not afford to keep a ten gallon tank. And all the stuff that keeps coming out just keeps it more expensive. I too get tired of the lfs giving out the info that causes people to come here looking for answers, but the answers aren't always found in a test bottle either.
Oh, well done ranting and raving about how expensive this hobby is getting. And Lfs giving out bad info just to make a buck.
Next subject please.
12519
From: zabeth 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: ire. heh.
Posted by zabeth on August 24, 2000 at 14:25:55:
Re: (12504.html) Re: ire. heh.
Posted by Karen on August 24, 2000 at 08:07:53:
sorry if i came across as hostile in my last post. i'm not even sure what i said... and i'm too lazy to go check, but i apologize anyway :P
I agree with you about some LFSs just being out to make a buck and answers not always found in test bottles ((to a *degree*. I think the majority of probs in a tank can be traced to water qual)).
I also agree this hobby shouldn't have to be so expensive, but I believe anyone who's taken the time to educate themselves and is familiar with their fish and proper care can get by with the bare necessities. Unfortunately, few of the people who post on this board have your experience :P
I think there are a couple of things most people should "splurge" on -- test kits ((if not the whole shebang, ammonia and nitrIte ATVL)), a QT set-up ((depending on the size of the main tank)), a parasite treatment and an antibiotic of some sort.
12527
From: Karen 8/24/2000
Subject: I did not think you came across hostile, hope I didn't
Posted by PKCSPT@CS.COM) Karen on August 24, 2000 at 14:43:17:
Re: (12519.html) Re: ire. heh.
Posted by zabeth on August 24, 2000 at 14:25:55:
nt
12530
From: zabeth 8/24/2000
Subject: you didn't :) n/m
Posted by apathesia@aol.com) zabeth on August 24, 2000 at 15:01:46:
Re: (12527.html) I did not think you came across hostile, hope I didn't
Posted by Karen on August 24, 2000 at 14:43:17:
n/t
12512
From: Michelle 8/24/2000
Subject: I agree
Posted by Michelle on August 24, 2000 at 09:12:35:
Re: (12504.html) Re: ire. heh.
Posted by Karen on August 24, 2000 at 08:07:53:
All I have to add is that I bought this pretty Betta from Wal-mart (of all places) for $3.50 and so far within the month of having him - I have spent over $200. (tank, gravel, decorations, water treatment, test kits, food and I've tried them all!) Not to mention how my tap water was way too high in Ph and the LFS said to use bottled - so that expense is added to my list.
It is an amazing "hobby", but I still like to think that I spared poor Bobo from a horrible short existence at the hands of a non-caring Wal-Mart employee! I think that it's worth the cost - well . . .
12523
From: zabeth 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: I agree
Posted by zabeth on August 24, 2000 at 14:37:11:
Re: (12512.html) I agree
Posted by Michelle on August 24, 2000 at 09:12:35:
Holy... $200?!?
I've probably spent slightly more than $115 since April - including tanks, test kits, fish, food, meds, water treaters and all of that good stuff. Looks like i've been lucky.
12479
From: eb 8/23/2000
Subject: is this normal???
Posted by eb on August 23, 2000 at 18:45:32:
at night when i turn on my tank light my tetras seem less shiny but almost transparent totally. is this normal? i'm guessing so as they look fine in normal day light, but just a precaution. thanx eb
12488
From: Karen 8/23/2000
Subject: Re: is this normal???
Posted by PKCSPT@CS.COM) Karen on August 23, 2000 at 19:15:04:
Re: (12479.html) is this normal???
Posted by eb on August 23, 2000 at 18:45:32:
Normal. Many fish do this. They were probably sleeping, or perhaps bright colors are easier to see in the dark, more reflective. As a protective measure they lose this bright ness in the dark.
This is just a guess on my part from watching fish in my parents lake.
12496
From: katie 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: is this normal???
Posted by kteblkwel@hotmail.com) katie on August 24, 2000 at 03:54:10:
Re: (12488.html) Re: is this normal???
Posted by Karen on August 23, 2000 at 19:15:04:
My neons tetras fade overnigth and look very pale when i turn the lights on in the morning-but usually return to their bright colors after they wake up-they are usually asleep when i turn the light on-it's funny b/c i have to wait for them to wake up before i feed!
12473
From: bujeeboo 8/23/2000
Subject: Can you have a betta in a small heated tank with no filter?
Posted by bujeeboo@yahoo.com) bujeeboo on August 23, 2000 at 16:12:01:
After my recent fish holocaust, I am very nervous about doing anything different for my betta's home. He's quite happy in his bowl. The problem is, the room temp will drop in the winter and he won't survive it. Since I seem to have bad luck with filtered systems and since I'm VERY attached to this fish, can I heat a little 2 gal tank, but handle the sanitation duties by doing frequent water changes rather than have a filter? He doesn't seem to mind them one bit.
12513
From: bujeeboo 8/24/2000
Subject: Well, this is weird...
Posted by bujeeboo@yahoo.com) bujeeboo on August 24, 2000 at 10:28:56:
Re: (12473.html) Can you have a betta in a small heated tank with no filter?
Posted by bujeeboo on August 23, 2000 at 16:12:01:
I unplugged the little 25 watt heater because the tank seemed to be stuck on 82 degrees. 24 hours and some generally warmer days later, the temp is 84. California is sunny and beautiful, but it isn't THAT warm, esp. at night.
The temp was confirmed by 2 thermometers.
I think the filter motor is heating the water. Since this is a tiny 2 gal, I would say this renders it useless. A design defect? Anyway, it was freaky to see the temp go UP not down. I thought is would share it.
-bujee
12529
From: zabeth 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: Well, this is weird...
Posted by apathesia@aol.com) zabeth on August 24, 2000 at 14:59:24:
Re: (12513.html) Well, this is weird...
Posted by bujeeboo on August 24, 2000 at 10:28:56:
I'm from upstate NY, which I assume is cooler than CA and the temps in my unheated tanks are typically 80-84, though I've seen them shoot up to 90...
The filter motor *might* have something to do with it, but I seriously doubt it plays a large part in the temp, if it plays a part at all. What kind of filter is it, anyhow - power or undergravel? I thought you weren't going to filter this tank ((or is this a different one??))
I imagine the temp has something to do with glass/plastic/acrylic and it's ability to retain heat. If you've got this tank near any appliances ((tv, stereo, computer, etc)), they may boost the temp. Or if it's in an area with incadescent lighting, your lamps/light fixtures may be contributing to the heat.
Just curious -- what brand of tank is this?
12535
From: bujeeboo 8/24/2000
Subject: Re: Well, this is weird...
Posted by bujeeboo@yahoo.com) bujeeboo on August 24, 2000 at 18:45:09:
Re: (12529.html) Re: Well, this is weird...
Posted by zabeth on August 24, 2000 at 14:59:24:
It's another Eclipse Biowheel. I set it up with the idea that I would cycle it/put Baggy the Betta in there, but chickened out due to my troubles in the 6 gal Eclipse. So it's been sitting there set up with the heater running. Just for grins, I kept checking the heat and I noticed it was quite warm if I were to put Baggy in there, and decided to unplug the heater and get a different one. Well, that's when I noticed the temp went up. We ARE having a mild warming trend at the moment (outside temps are around 80). So I suppose that must be it.
Anyway, the good news is, Baggy is used to the temp because that's how warm his bowl is. He will need a heater in the winter though. That, plus and extra gallon of space would be the advantages of moving him to the 2 gal tank.
Maybe I'll put him in there tomorrow.
P.S. In case you're wondering why I don't measure Baggy's temp with the thermometer: he fights with it when I put it in there.
:-)
12480
From: eb 8/23/2000
Subject: yup
Posted by eb on August 23, 2000 at 18:47:27:
Re: (12473.html) Can you have a betta in a small heated tank with no filter?
Posted by bujeeboo on August 23, 2000 at 16:12:01:
bettas do not need filters but ya, you should change the water frequently.
no too sure bout the heater but hey? why not?