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From: Lencho 3/05/02
Subject: Karen - Re: Algae eaters & Goldfish
Thanks for the response. Please scroll down to the original message for my latest input. I do want to get a handle on my pond and the folks that live there.

From: jared 3/05/02
Subject: catfish
how can you tell a male catfish from a female catfish

From: Karen 3/05/02
Subject: Re: catfish
Which catfish are we talking about here?

From: jared 3/05/02
Subject: Re: catfish
lepord catfish

From: jared 3/05/02
Subject: i spelled leopord rong right
right

From: Clint 3/05/02
Subject: Leopard Cory?
If it's a corydoras subspecies then theres not a 100% foolproof method. But the best way is to look at their body fromabove and the female will be noticably braoder or heavier looking/ and the females head is usually bigger. Was gonna comment on the ...ahh I better not. Clint

From: Lois 3/05/02
Subject: Re: Leopard Cory? another question, Clint or anybody
Admirable self control, Clint :-). But while we are at it, if there are 2 of opposite sex in the tank, how likely is that there will be babies? One of mine is looking decidely plump. The tank in question is 7 gallon, temperature 78, fake plants, java moss, java fern. Thanks!

From: Justin 3/05/02
Subject: Baby guppies
My brothers fancy guppies just had babies. He wants to know if he can take the parents and put them in a small betta tank with no areation? CAn he? The babies are all healthy and there is no dead ones. Any advice would also be appreciated.

From: Clint 3/05/02
Subject: Re: Baby guppies
Newborn guppies can live in any small container you have around the house. I keep killifish fry in those plastic shoeboxes (walmart special) for the first 4 to 5 weeks. They won't really have to have areation but you can really help their growth and health by changing 50% of their water a day. Use the water from the adult tank, and at the same time you can give the adult a small water change. In just a few weeks, 3 to 4 at most the fry should be big enough to return to the adult tank. If you have any snails put one or two in the fry container. Probably shouldn't say this but I once raised a single female guppy in an 8 once cup, to maturity. Didn't have any room, she came in with some plants. But she was as healthy as any I've ever seen. I did 50% water changes almost daily. Slow areation would be an advantage, just because they don't HAVE to have it doesn't mean they shouldn't. Clint

From: Leslie 3/05/02
Subject: Re: Baby guppies
Are you asking about putting the adult guppies in a betta tank or the babies? Guppies have to have some type of aeration. He can use a little betta tank with a small air stone and just make sure he does frequent water changes since there won't be a filter in it. The babies could be kept the same way. In fact, too much suction on a filter often kills baby fish. I always put mine in a goldfish bowl with a lid and one air stone that has a clamping valve so I can adjust the air flow. I keep it very soft for the fry. I raised 6 guppy fry from birth without a heater in their tank and they are now 18 weeks old and have a new home...still no heater!

From: roby 3/05/02
Subject: Re: Baby guppies
forgot to say, that don't forget the water changes(same temperature water) and the heater. in my baby guppy tank i have a pot on its side so they can hide. good luck

From: roby 3/05/02
Subject: Re: Baby guppies
take out the babies. that's what i do, but they do need some air. otherwise if you have a breeding net, float that in the main aquarium a nd put the babies in there.

From: Kelli 3/05/02
Subject: TO: LESLIE! SO SORRY!
Leslie Awww man!! I just found out about your two Bettas. Wah! I am so sorry! That is so sad and I know how fond you were of them. Do you think it was old age?? It seems like nothing really helped them, and it certainly wasn't for your lack of trying to help! I think you did right by a quick euthanize. I wouldn't have been able to stand watching that happen either. big ole bummer. I just found out now. I've not been around much. I broke my right foot and am in a knee to toe cast and can't manuver very well. I've been recliner bound since last Thursday. Let me know how you are doing and if you plan on geting more? Kelli

From: Leslie 3/05/02
Subject: Re: TO: LESLIE! SO SORRY!
Sorry to hear about your broken foot! Ouch! I cried for a day or so over the betta boys and even said a little prayer for them at our church's chapel (I go once a week). Anyways, I am very sorry that they couldn't have lived forever...they were so very beautiful. Even my mom loved them and she is not what you would call a lover of fish! She only liked Blue, Rainbow, my dwarf gouramis, and my angelfish. I don't know...I just have to believe there is a special "heaven" of some sort for them....especially those who were beloved pets and brought joy to their owners. We think that about our dogs and cats, so why not our fish, huh? As far as it being old age that got them, well, I think that was a major part of it. They got into the same area of the tank one day and of course got into a hell of a fight, and I just believe there were internal injuries from that fight that I couldn't fix. Rainbow's fins were shredded that day and he never looked the same. In the days before he died, his pretty red, white, blue, and purple fins were sloughing off everytime he moved. And Blue....he was definitely suffering. I don't doubt that for a minute. He responded partly to the antifungal medication the first time, but as soon as the Bettamax was finished (and I let it sit in the water for an extra day), he got an even bigger clump off fungus right at his anus....he couldn't poop. His stomach swelled and it was just pitiful. He did not even fight me when I netted him. Both guys went right to sleep. I still have Gunshot, Cochise, and Damien, so I'm not lacking in the male betta department. Thanks for writing me and I hope your foot feels better!

From: Ted 3/05/02
Subject: Proper amount of salt for a medicinal dip...
I have read here and in other places that a medicinal salt dip is a good idea when moving fish into a tank. How much salt do I use per cup of water? Thank you.

From: Clint 3/05/02
Subject: No No No - only if it's sick
Don't do a dip for a healthy fish. The medicinal dip is about 3 teaspoons for a quart. But thats for extreme cases of fish sickness. If they are healthy theres no need to put them thru the shock. The shock is what kills the parasites but its not a good experience for the fish either. You can add a teaspoon of salt per gallon to the regular aquarium to prevent parasite infestations for any fish. It is a good preventative at that dosage. Clint

From: Leslie 3/05/02
Subject: Re: No No No - only if it's sick
Yeah, I've only used the salt dip twice. Once for a severe case of ick on a male betta. I put him in that warm saltwater and I swear you could see the white stuff coming off of him! Then I put him back in his tank with the regular amount of salt as well as ick maracide. He was immediately better after the salt bath. This is a very hyperactive fish and he was barely swimming until after the dip. Then he started zooming around as usual. In about 4 hours he was eating again and has been ick-free since. The other time was also on a male betta who had a huge glob of fungus next to his anal fin...from an injury. I put him in the salt dip and that big glob as well as some slimy stuff I hadn't noticed, came right off. I would never use a salt dip except in extreme cases, but it does work well!

From: Karen 3/05/02
Subject: Re: Proper amount of salt for a medicinal dip...
A dip before putting them in the tank is going to cause more stress to the fish than it is already going through. If a fish is ill a medicinal dip might help. If you have a quarantine/hopsital tank 1/2tsp - one tsp salt per gallon may help. Acclimate the fish slowly as some do not adapt well to salt.

From: Lynanne 3/05/02
Subject: Re: Proper amount of salt for a medicinal dip...
Although a concentrated salt dip will rid the fish of external parasites, it also disrupts their slime coat and is very stressfull to the fish. Add that to the stress of a new environment and they are more likely to succumb to diseases already in the tank. I'd agree to skip the salt dip and observe them in a quarantine tank before adding them to your main tank.

From: sherry 3/05/02
Subject: cysts on rapheal catfish
I bought a spotted rapheal catfish about a month ago. He seemed fine when I bought him and is doing well in his new home. A couple of days ago I noticed he had 4 small white "bubbles" on his stomach. Each on is about the size on a pin head. I don't think it is ich or velvet disease. This is not something I've ever seen before. He is acting normal, eating well, and the other fish in the tank all appear fine. Does anyone know what this might be?

From: Leslie 3/05/02
Subject: Re: cysts on rapheal catfish
I just looked at my spotted Raphael and he doesn't have any of these bubble things. Could it be eggs?

From: sherry 3/05/02
Subject: Re: cysts on rapheal catfish
I don't think they are eggs, they are too far apart and there are so few of them. Some people tell me it is probably velvet disease but these spots seem to big and bubble like for that.

From: roby 3/05/02
Subject: Re: cysts on rapheal catfish
i had the same thing on some peppered corys, but i never understood what it was and so i had to take them out of the tank because i was afraid it would infect my fish. but i wouōd like to know too what it is and if it can be cured.

From: Leslie 3/05/02
Subject: Re: cysts on rapheal catfish
Maybe you should quarrantine him for a coouple of weeks and see what happens. You could try adding some Maracide to the water. All of the Mardel products are great, but I think Maracide would treat your raphael if hhe has an external bacteria. Let me know if you find out what it is!

From: Eric 3/05/02
Subject: would mirrors help?
I have 5 white clouds. I was wondering if putting mirrors in the back of the tank (on the outside) would make them feel better. I know they're schooling fish, and I should have more, but I don't want to over load my tank. This message board rocks! You guys are so cool. Eric

From: veadra 3/05/02
Subject: Re: would mirrors help?
I've heard of people using a miror as a backdrop to the tank, it helps schooling fish especially when there are just 2 or 3, 5 is an ok size of school, although the more, the merrier!

From: Leslie 3/05/02
Subject: Re: would mirrors help?
I don't know, but it's an interesting concept. Would like to know what answers you get about that because if it's something that works, maybe my tanks won't have to be as loaded in the future! The only fish I've ever used a mirror with is one of my male bettas since he's in our computer room and not near any of the other males.

From: roby 3/05/02
Subject: Re: would mirrors help?
how big is your tank? and how many other fish have you got in?

From: roby 3/05/02
Subject: breeding angels
i have a pair of breeding angels in my 55 gallon community tank and they've layed eggs so many times(on leaves, on the tank side) but they've never been able to last more than 24 hours. once i took out the leaf and put it in a small tank which was oxygenated, but they died after 48 hours. should i put the parents in their own tank(and if so how should i set it up), or should i take out the leaf again and what should i do to get it right this time. should i put a sponge filter in the tank? thanks alot

From: john 3/05/02
Subject: Re: breeding angels
did the eggs ever hatch? If noz, then maybe you have two females. If they did hatch, then maybe i can help. Just list the other fish you have in the aquarium. (p.s. if the seller told you they were a male and female when you bought them, it doesnīt mean they are. Itīs hard to tell a female angel from male. That`s why people who want to breed them usually buy 5-6, then you see which ones pair up and are successful).

From: roby 3/05/02
Subject: Re: breeding angels
yes they did hatch and i bought them separately and luckily they paired. in the community tank they've never hatched. once i put the leaf in a nursery tank with an aerator and they did hatch, but a danio jumped in and ate them all. another time i put the leaf in a small tank with an aerator and they hatched, but died after 24 hours. i don't know whether to move the parents before they breed or to try and raise the fry artificially, but i don't know how to do that. the other fish in the tank are 2 angels(much smaller), neons, serpae, 2red tailed sharks, 3yellow labs, a pair of firemouth(but they've just been added and have never been there ofr spawning), 3 african knifefish, 3 corys, 2 clown loaches and 3 small plecos. The othe fish don't bother the pair much because the male is the largest fish in the tank and he is huge(he's one of the biggest angelfish i've seen even in shops). Thanks

From: Kelly 3/05/02
Subject: Is my platy pregnant?
I'm not sure how to tell. I think I read something somewhere about a dark spot to look for. I have 2 females and 1 of them has a dark spot under the skin just behind her belly. She is also a little fatter than my other platies. I got her 3 weeks ago, and she was like that when I put her in the tank. I would love to have babies in my tank, but am afraid the other fish would eat them. I have angels, a dwarf gourami, cories and zebra danios with the platies. I want to get a net if she is pregnant so that I can be prepared. Thanks so much for teaching me everything I need to know about fish! I read the board every day, just to learn something new.

From: roby 3/05/02
Subject: Re: Is my platy pregnant?
is she getting fatter? if she is(and you'll notice) then she is pregnant. i never put my fish in the net it always stresses them out and somehow i seem to get tons of babies. you need lots of plants they can hide in at the bottom, and once you see them fish them out and put them in the net. watch out for the zebra danios, once 1 jumped in the net and ate all the babies. when i have danios in the tank, i use a small tank with an aerator and put them in their and do partial water changes(make sure the water isn't too cold).

From: Kelly 3/05/02
Subject: Re: Is my platy pregnant?
Thanks, I have a 2 gallon I can put them in if I see them! There are lots of plants to hide in along the sides and back of the tank, so maybe I'll get lucky and they'll make it until I can get them moved.

From: roby 3/05/02
Subject: Re: Is my platy pregnant?
forgot to say!my tank has a built in filter and i find alot of my babies in there. so just check in the filter sometime. once i found 30 in there!!!

From: roby 3/05/02
Subject: quarantine tank
hi, could someone tell me how i should set up a quarantine tank. i've never had one but as i'm really into this hobby and want to get serious about it i've decided to set 1 up. if you could just let me know what to put in it, type of filter(will a sponge filter do?)gravel, plants or none at all. and for how long do i have to keep the fish in there before transfering them to the main tank. thanks

From: Leslie 3/05/02
Subject: Re: quarantine tank
A quarrantine tank is an excellent thing to do for your fish and for you! The tank just needs to be a small one, and bare (no plants, ornaments) unless this causes extreme stress on the fish...some seem to lose their sanity when they can't hide. But you want to be able to observe the fish without anything blocking your vision. Keep feeding to a minimum and any equipment you use such as nets should be used only for this tank. Try to keep the tank is a quiet place with subdued lighting. You'll need a filter (your choice) and heater, just as if you were setting up a new regular tank. As far as the length of time to quarrantine, I have read 4-6 weeks, but this is a subject of debate. I usually hold them (when I DO quarrantine) for about 2 weeks. If they are not showing any signs of illness by that time, I am of the opinion that it's more stressful to keep them in a small tank alone when they could go to thhe regular tank and have the calming (hopefully!) effect of being around other fish and in a more natural environment....which in turn would maybe keep the new fish from having stress-triggered illnesses. Also, never, ever use the water from the store. Dip the fish out with the net. Hope this helps!

From: roby 3/05/02
Subject: Re: quarantine tank
thanks alot. it's been very helpful

From: Elli 3/05/02
Subject: To Karen
Have I lost contack with you Karen?

From: Karen 3/05/02
Subject: Re: To Karen
No, I am here. Did I miss something? If so please let me know.

From: Cheney fish 3/05/02
Subject: My cories spawned
Well the good news is that my juli cories spawned. The bad news is that I was not prepared for it at all so most of the eggs have already been eaten by their tank mates. Sigh oh well at least I got to witness it and boy was it interesting.

From: roby 3/05/02
Subject: Re: My cories spawned
same happened to me, even with peppered corys, but i never got to see them spawn.

From: Leslie 3/05/02
Subject: Re: My cories spawned
My peppered's, emeralds, and albinos all have spawned, but the most frequent is the emerald. She lays eggs (a lot!!!) about every 4-5 weeks and the male is right by her side fertilizing them. I've been unprepared everytime, but I hope to get at least a few eggs next time. I'd love to have more corys!

From: SharonG 3/05/02
Subject: surprise! baby platty
I started my 5 gallon tank about a month ago, and with everyones help lived thru the cycling. I have a betta and a mickey mouse platty...I had two plattys but one was nipping the betta all the time so I gave it to a friend with a 20 gallon tank, and he seems to be happy. Anyway, Mickey turns out to be Minnie. It scarfs food like a vacuum cleaner and I thought she was fat. But today I noticed a little 1/4 inch platty hiding in the rocks and plants. I only see it once in a while...But she is still big. Do you think she will have more? Do they only have one at a time, wait awhile and have another? Are the rest eaten? I hope the adults they don't this one. Should I keep the light off so the others can't find it? Any suggestions would be great.

From: roby 3/05/02
Subject: Re: surprise! baby platty
yes she will have more. they don't have them all in one go. Look for more because she's probably had alot more than one, even though some may have been eaten. i used to find some in the filter. if you have a nursery tank take the baby out and put it in there, or if you have another small tank put it in there with an airstone. anyhow look for when the female gets thinner, it means she's had more babies. good luck

From: anne 3/05/02
Subject: clown loaches
Hi! i got 2 (1") clown loaches to get rid of snails on my plants. i think they have eaten most of them now. i also have 2 dwarf gouramis, 1 red tailed shark and a pleco. i am giving the gouramis flake food. Should i be giving the loaches any special food? i would like them to look for more snails but if they're all gone would they be ok just searching the bottom of the tank for flake food. There is plenty of algae on the plants. Pleco doesn't seem to eat that much of it. i never see the red tailed shark eat anything and he is 5" long already. Will the shark be a problem to the loaches, since i know he chases red and once and a while he does chase them. So far they're not stressed because they can hide and are so small. Any suggestions about food for loaches and their relationship with the shark?

From: Joe 3/05/02
Subject: Re: clown loaches
I have two Bala Sharks and 2 Loaches (along with some others) and they get along just fine. They chase each other sometimes (playing I think) but have gotten along fine with no casualties or injuries for 3 months in a 30 gal tank. I feed both flake food and they seem to like it fine. Hope this helps.....

From: Sarah 3/05/02
Subject: Re: clown loaches
I don't know about the shark but I've got 3 clown loaches and they go nuts for flake food. They'll also eat anything off the bottom.

From: roby 3/05/02
Subject: Re: clown loaches
the shark shouldn't be a problem to the loaches. i have 2 red tailed sharks and 2 clown loaches and they don't even look at eachother. the loaches and the sharks will eat the flake food. when i got my loaches they were small too, but they grow pretty fast. don't woory about sharks and loaches. sharks are usually aggressive to their own species

From: Mike 3/05/02
Subject: Question to AJB or other plant experts.
Hi AJB, I have been exchanging emails with you about the CO2 yeast-sugar mixture setup (still trying to make it last more than a week). I just wanted to ask you if a change in C02 level - my tank goes from 7.4 to about 7.0 which is not too bad for fish - can shock cryptorynes Wendtii Green. Lately I noticed that the bunch is losing leaves... I think they call it crytocoryne disease ? Is that something I have to cure. I know that light intensity/temp change can shock them, right. I added more light too. But now I am not sure what is causing the meltdown. I am worried that I might lose all of them even though I see quite a few young leaves popping out. I must say I like this wendtii Green very much but it seems to be fragile.

From: AJB 3/05/02
Subject: Re: Question to AJB or other plant experts.
I don't know if my co2 level changes throughout the day- I don't check it. I'm sure it does. I do check it every now and then, but it happens less than once a month. Correct me if this is wrong: So you have plants in with some Wendtii Green, and you have light and co2. They are still dying and you don't know why. >>Are they all the same plant? Do you fertelize? I'll start off with those.. AJB

From: big nig 3/05/02
Subject: a new tank to save my fish
when i added baby piranhas to my tank i thought they would give me more time to give away my other fish .. well even at only 1 inch they are little killers .. yesterday i bought a 20 gallon tank added instant bacteria and it came with a little heater and biowheel .. well i dont know if i should add my beat up irredecent sharks and remaining bloodfins to the new uncycled tank ??i think they may die ..but if i leave then in the 55 gal with the piranahs they will die for sure.. so you can see the situation i am in any thoughts on this would be greatly appretiated

From: Joe 3/05/02
Subject: Question for Big-nig
I am not sure what to do about your probelm but I was curious of were you were able to purchase the piranhas...I have heard of others having them...I would be interested in seeing and possiblyhaving them also...Please let me know

From: big nig 3/05/02
Subject: Re: Question for Big-nig
i dont know where you are located but i purchased them from my local petshop called ocean design aquariums in chicago .. they are located on irving park road and naraganzite i bought 4 @ 4.99 a piece .. i thought that was a good price . they has about 50 of them in a tank .... it must be piranha season??

From: Joe 3/05/02
Subject: Re: Question for Big-nig
I live in Connecticut (actually just flew back in from Chicago yesterday) and I havent seen then in any pet stores. I will have to research that more and see if I can find any... Thanks Joe

From: Rachel 3/05/02
Subject: Re: a new tank to save my fish
I agree with Karen. I'd move them, but do frequent (daily) small water changes since the tank isn't cycled. I really like pirnhas. They have great faces. What are you going to do with yours when they get bigger? You're going to need one heck of a big tank! ;o)

From: Lisa 3/05/02
Subject: Re: a new tank to save my fish
you can also add gravel and water from the established tank so there's some good bacteria in the new tank.

From: Leslie 3/05/02
Subject: Re: a new tank to save my fish
Can you add the pirhanas until the others are healed, then switch?

From: big nig 3/05/02
Subject: Re: a new tank to save my fish
not really .. maybe i should have explained more .. i have a freind who can take the others but not until saturday .. and i just wanted to know if you think they would be fine for a few days in the mean time .. i dont want to stress out the piranhas that i plan to keep for a very long time .. after he takes my old fish the 20 gal will become a tank for feeder guppies .. i was contimplating getting a betta for the 20 gal???

From: Karen 3/05/02
Subject: Re: a new tank to save my fish
You can put the fish in. However I would do water changes every day to make up for the fact your filter is not cycled.

From: Sean 3/05/02
Subject: ph stabilizer/kh booster
28 gal tank freshwater at 76 degrees aquaclear filter fluorescent lighting 2 swordtails, 1 platy Hi: I'm hoping there is someone out there who can provide help to a newcomer to this hobby. I just built a 28 gal. tank from scratch (including hood). After having some bad luck with my goldfish over the past year I decided I was going to take this tank serious. I had my tap water tested (drilled well) and found that my ph level is at 6.0 with little or no carbonate hardness (now I know why my goldfish hated water changes!!) The petstore suggested I use a ph stabilizer/kh booster. I used a Hagen product that brought my ph level up to around 6.9 and carbonate hardness is fine as well. My "cycling" fish or "pioneers", as I like to call them, are doing fine so far. I have a ph test kit and plan on buying other test kits in the near future. After this long preamble, my question is: when the time comes to do a water change should I add the stabilizer to the aquarium after adding new water or should I add stabilizer to the new water PRIOR to placing it in the aquarium. The instructions on the bottle are vague to say the least. I have contacted the company but I am not sure how long it will take them to respond. Is there anything else I should know about dealing with my tap water. I really don't want to rely on an outside source of water. I would like to establish a very set and efficient means of controlling these levels and make them routine. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I have been browing this board and judging by the helpful nature of the participants, I think I may be coming back here often. Cheers, Sean

From: Karen 3/05/02
Subject: Re: ph stabilizer/kh booster
We hope you do come back often. I would add the stabilizer to the water prior to adding it to the tank. You might look for fish that like your water as is. Years ago my dad used to build his own tanks, I never have but have wanted to. Let us know how it works out.

From: steven 3/05/02
Subject: Re: ph stabilizer/kh booster
on this and other sights, i've heard it suggested to use limestone gravel/decorations to raise ph/hardness.

From: casey 3/05/02
Subject: fighting female bettas
I have 3 female bettas in a 3 gal tank, which have been there for about 3 weeks. They all seemed to get along fine until recently. The newest betta (three weeks) just started chasing the other 2. One of them will hide in a cave afraid to come out unless I am right up to the tank. They were both inside the cave last night and the aggressive was flaring and trying to tear the fins off the other one.Other times they are fine. I started treating last night with Copper-safe for possible velvet. Hard to tell if the color is fading or it's from fighting.Anyone with any ideas on why they would start fighting now? Thanks!

From: Leslie 3/05/02
Subject: Re: fighting female bettas
Female bettas can have aggressive personalities...or community-type personalities. I would assume it's a territorial thing with them because it's such a small tank. Try this: take all of them out putting the new one in a seperate container. Rearrange all of the ornaments, plants, etc. Put the 2 more docile ones back in first and wait until they seem comfortable in the tank, then re-introduce the 3rd one. If it starts acting up again, you may have to move it somewhere else.

From: casey 3/05/02
Subject: Re: fighting female bettas
hi leslie...this morning they seem fine, no fighting and all swimming around. Have you ever heard of fish being jealous of each other? I'm wondering if it's because I'm near the tank. Whenever I go near it they all come flying into that corner and it seems like that's when the fighting starts. Another question for you.. what is your opinion on taking my algea eater out of my goldfish tank (they finally got moved to a 29g this weekend)and moving it to my empty 10g? I have the same filter and cartridge, new gravel(old gravel went with the goldfish)Too much of a change? I also found a small heater which I put in my 2 gal hex with Rainbow, works great 78`, and everyone in the house is happier with the heat turned down, especially my hubby. It's so cold here lately(N.H.)the furnace has been running continually hjust to keep my betta warm. How's the idea for your own site coming? Are you thinking about it still?

From: Leslie 3/05/02
Subject: Re: fighting female bettas
Hello, Yes, I'm still thinking of starting my own site, but it's just in the thinking stages right now. My hubby and I are very busy right now...trying to adopt a little boy, we teach 2 children's classes at our church and with it being Lent, it's really hectic, and I also have a young attention-monger dog plus 2 older cats. My boy cat, he's 8 years old, got really sick yesterday. I raised him from about 4 weeks and he's like my baby. Anyways, with all that AND keeping all 9 tanks/bowls clean plus my house, the website will just have to wait. I'm happy enough at petfish. Ok, about your female bettas: their behavior is nothing but normal and I would not worry about it. I had 2 females once, Miss Charcoal and Miss Plumb. Miss Plumb was the boss, no doubt. Sometimes I used to feel sorry for Miss Charcoal because Miss Plumb would act so mean and bossy to her. But then I'd look at them again, and they were the best of buddies...getting along fine and Miss Plumb even defended Miss Charcoal on several occasions when a very mean gourami was on attack mode. Miss Plumb could take on any fish I ever put in the tank and she'd always win. Poor Miss Charcoal finally got taken down, probably by that gourami (who was later euthanized). Miss Plumb was nipping her fins really bad, but in retrospect, I think she knew her "sister" was dying and was trying to help her go. Miss Plumb lived a long time and finally died January 9th of this year from being egg-bound. She is buried in my rose garden. Your fish are just like mine as far as flying into the corner and begging for your attention....actually, they want to be fed no matter if they just ate not long before. Feeding time causes a certain type of stress or frenzied activity in the tank because the stronger fish want ALL the food. Mine do the same thing no matter what the breed. What kind of algae eater do you have and how big? It should be ok as long as you provide bottom feeder tablets and algae wafers/flakes so it doesn't get malnourished. I have a couple of those small heaters...just beware that they can overheat, so keep an eye on it. I usually use mine in a fry tank. My bettas get cold sometimes, too, but what I do is take out some of that cold water and slowly pour in warm water. They love it.

From: New 2 Bettas 3/04/02
Subject: My friend's tank..
My friend just got new fish for her eight gallon tank which used to house goldfih (goldfish deathtrap?), and she recently purchased new fish to go in her tank. She purchased four platies, four male guppies, and 5 neon tetras. The lady at the fish store told her that that was a good amount for her tank. When I saw her tank I was concerned for her that it was overpopulated, but I wanted to make sure so I am coming to ya'll. Which fish should she get rid of, if any? Help her out please! Thanks!

From: Leslie 3/05/02
Subject: Re: My friend's tank..
Good gosh! Thirteen fish in an 8G tank? I guess it's up to her to decide what to get rid of, but something needs to go or there will be another deathtrap. She could: Keep the 4 platys and 5 neons Keep the 4 guppies (which usually don't live long anyways) and 5 neons Keep the pltys and the guppies and no neons Tell her to ask the "adult" size of the fish she wants to get before buying it....1" of fish per gallon.

From: Karen 3/05/02
Subject: Re: My friend's tank..
No on the one inch per gallon. I can see her putting in a 1 inch Oscar which is going to be meesier than a one inch neon. However yes it is way overcrowded. My very general not carved in stone rules is this. A small tank with small fish (meaning small when full grown, about an inch) is one per gallon leaving two gallons free. Or 6 little fish in an 8 gallon tank. She can in fact make it work but she will have to do water changes every single day, at least 50%.

From: casey 3/05/02
Subject: Re: My friend's tank..
I have 7 tetras, a snail,dwarf frog in one 6 gal tank and they seem to do fine. My water is clear, all readings are fine. The tank is fully cycled with a bio-wheel filter and I do weekly cleaning and 25% water changes. I have added them gradually to the tank and all have done well.

From: Leslie 3/05/02
Subject: Re: My friend's tank..
Yeah, I agree that some fish will work in a small tank even though it sounds like it might be over-stocked. Everything I have read and been told is 1" of fish per gallon of water...that means at adult size. A 6" angelfish should have at least 8 gallons of water in my opinion, because, like Karen said, you always want to leave a couple of gallons free. But some fish are just plain messy and foul the water so fast that even at 2 gallons per inch, they're a lot of work. I don't think platys, neons, or guppies are like that.

From: monica 3/04/02
Subject: cycling is stressful on me--forget the fish!!
Just wanted to share with you how this cycling thing seems to be lasting forever(only 4 weeks I know, BUT...). What patience you must have while waiting. My tank is taking its own sweet time and I have no patience so this whole thing is killing me... Because I have had so much help on this site--I became a Master Gardener recently and would like to help anyone with horticulture questions (outdoor or indoor). If we can't do it on this board you can email me at propionicacid@msn.com-------- I would like to help someone for once :-),

From: Leslie 3/05/02
Subject: Re: cycling is stressful on me--forget the fish!!
Haha! I like your subject line! I have no patience, either, and never let a tank cycle completely before adding fish. That's why I try to get hardy starter fish in the beginning...patience I have not!

From: casey 3/05/02
Subject: Re: cycling is stressful on me--forget the fish!!
I know exactly what you mean. I had 3 tanks with high levels and was doing daily water changes ( plus cleaning and changing my other tanks weekly) and thought I would go crazy. Good news though, zero levls in all my one. They tend to drop fast so hold on for a little longer. Mine went from 2. down to 0 overnight.My last tank will probably never be at 0 because they're goldfish and the stupid things keep growing sooo fast that I have to keep moving them to a bigger tank.Garden pond this summer, any pointers?

From: monica 3/05/02
Subject: Re: cycling is stressful on me--forget the fish!!
what kind of site conditions for the area (sun, wind, slope?)---------

From: casey 3/05/02
Subject: Re: cycling is stressful on me--forget the fish!!
We live in N.H. so we have pretty cold weather. It would have to be a seasonal thing, although I was told if we go 3' deep it should be good all year round (something else to shovel). Mostly pine trees with the north and east sides pretty clear and level.How is your tank cycling coming? They do drop quick, thank goodness for miracles, I was going crazy doing changes x3 every day. Thank you so much!

From: monica 3/05/02
Subject: Re: cycling is stressful on me--forget the fish!!
cycling seems to be lasting forever!! Do you need info. on the pond part or planting around it?

From: Karen 3/05/02
Subject: Re: cycling is stressful on me--forget the fish!!
Well the nice thing is once you ahve a tank up and running and cycled and healthy. You decide you need another one, you can put some of the cycled filter in the new tank and jump start things a lot. Garden pond,,, yes.

From: Leslie 3/04/02
Subject: PLEASE READ!
Please scroll down to my post about marine ffish addressed to Clint or others who know something about setting up a small marine tank. I posted this morning but no one has answered. Thanks!

From: Joe 3/04/02
Subject: Stockilng a 30 gallon tank
Ok, I have a 30 gal tank and I am not sure what direction I want to go with it. I have 13 fish now that is a mix of "starter fish" that I used to get the tank going and didnt expect to last (People told me they would probably die first time around) and fish that I like. The problem I am having is, I have some fish that I want to keep (2 Bala Sharks, 2 loaches, swordtails, gouramis) but none of them really have any color and the tank looks bland. Ideally, I would like to make the tank a more agressive but since I am finding my tank is too small for what I am interested in I dont know what to do. I would like a Oscar but I know that wont fly. I did find out I could possibly have 2 Jack Demseys but nothing else can go in with them (2 pet stores told me this) and they were not sure 2 would survive (one would most likely kill the other). My problem is, should I try the Demsies or a more agressive fish (if so what kind) or keep the Bala Sharks and others I mentioned and add Tetra's or some other small fish that I can add alot of and have color? I dont know what to do, 2 fish in a tank no matter how big they get would look empty I think but until the sharks grown it looks empty now and has no color. What could I add with either to have a good amount of fish and still look like a nice INTERESTING tank?

From: Sarah 3/04/02
Subject: Re: Stockilng a 30 gallon tank
Do you like angelfish? They can be agressive, they have great character and they'd go well with gourami's and swordtails, loaches, etc...Mine like to swim all over the tank but usually in the middle so the tank doesn't appear empty. Good Luck!

From: Joe 3/04/02
Subject: Re: Stockilng a 30 gallon tank
I will have to look into those and see. I just wanted something that was either a little more aggressive (i.e. Jack Demsies, Oscars) or have a community tank with a lot of fish (both big and small) not just a bunch of Tetra's or anything. The trouble I seem to be having is all the fish I have found to like so far require more than a 30 gal tank or I can only have one or two. Just thought I would be able to find a nice in between to satisfy what I am looking for. Thank for your response. Joe

From: Timboi 3/04/02
Subject: Re: Stockilng a 30 gallon tank
JDs and Oscars are out in a 30G - they grow big pretty fast, and you'll need at least a 75G to house a fullgrown ONE of these. If you want cichlids, there are dwarf cichlids that only grow to 3-4" long: Rams, apistos, kribs, curviceps, and others. If you want to go with more aggressive fish, there are convict cichlids and firemouths (convicts generally should only be kept by themselves in a 30 because they have been known to kill fish twice their size when spawning), which grow to about 6", but you really can't. Really, you can't keep any bigger than 6" if you want them to be happy and live for a while. You have to buy fish by their potential size, not just what they are now - beware of sales-people trying make a quick buck (look up info on the fish before you buy, because it's not uncommon for people to tell you an Oscar or a JD will 'be fine in a 30G' - trust me, they won't).

From: Joe 3/04/02
Subject: Re: Stockilng a 30 gallon tank
Thanks for your help, I have found that some people are out to make a buck when it comes to giving advice on fish. I am fairly new to this and sometimes it is hard to distiquish who's advice you can trust. I have 2 Bala Sharks in the tank now that I would like to keep but I am not sure I will be able to. I heard (and have seen) them grow to 10 inches. I really like this fish though but I have them in with 8 other small to medium fish (gouramis, tiger barbs, sword tails). Now that I thought about it, I would like to be able to keep the two bala sharks and maybe add a few different types of tetra's or something small to medium in size. Just something with color and enough fish for the tank to look full and active. I am surprised, when I was little I never had anything larger than a 5 gal tank, I thought a 30 gal was VERY large. now I am finding out that its relatively small for aquariums and alot of fish need alot more room. I am almost kicking myself for not waiting a buying a 55 gal but I really thought this was a big tank. thanks again Joe

From: Timboi 3/04/02
Subject: Re: Stockilng a 30 gallon tank
It's all a learning process. I was realy excited when I got my first tank (15G) and was really gutted when it became obvious I couldn't have any fish bigger than 3" - it was a pretty obvious thing, but I hadn't really thought about it much. I've just got a 20G (can't really get any bigger than that until we buy a house). If you have the bala sharks and can swap them, you might want to do so, because they'll eventually become really crowded in a 30G, although for the time being they'll probably be OK. I don't know from personal exp., but if you're thinking of getting a bigger tank in the next year, you might just get away with it. Rams are very beautiful little cichlids, as are apistos - most dwarf cichlids will be OK in a community tank and have pretty interesting personalities.

From: Joe 3/05/02
Subject: Re: Stockilng a 30 gallon tank
I knew about the Sharks after the fact, I will probably wind up getting a bigger tank within a year if they do survive and get that big. I would like to keep them and I find them really interesting. I did read that the Sharks can grow UP TO 10" (I saw one in the store like that), BUT I also read that if in a smaller tank they will actually stop growing at a certain point (dont know if its true). I was (and still am) very surised that 30 gal isnt that big of a tank, I really thought it was. It looks that way at least... Anyway, dont want to ramble on back and forth about this. I just have found this board to be an awsome resource for fish owners to learn and share experiences. It is tough not to continue to convrerse back and forth when you find someone as helpful/friendly as yourself and others on this site. Thanks

From: Karen 3/05/02
Subject: If you want an aggressive
If you want an aggressive fish for this tank after you decide about upgrading to a larger tank for your balas I suggest the jewel cichlid. These guys are very colorful, especially in breeding colors. Easy breeders. However be sure to have plenty of hiding areas for the female when they are not in breeding mode otherwise the male willkill her.

From: Joe 3/04/02
Subject: Re: Stockilng a 30 gallon tank
Thanks for your help, I have found that some people are out to make a buck when it comes to giving advice on fish. I am fairly new to this and sometimes it is hard to distiquish who's advice you can trust. I have 2 Bala Sharks in the tank now that I would like to keep but I am not sure I will be able to. I heard (and have seen) them grow to 10 inches. I really like this fish though but I have them in with 8 other small to medium fish (gouramis, tiger barbs, sword tails). Now that I thought about it, I would like to be able to keep the two bala sharks and maybe add a few different types of tetra's or something small to medium in size. Just something with color and enough fish for the tank to look full and active. I am surprised, when I was little I never had anything larger than a 5 gal tank, I thought a 30 gal was VERY large. now I am finding out that its relatively small for aquariums and alot of fish need alot more room. I am almost kicking myself for not waiting a buying a 55 gal but I really thought this was a big tank. thanks again Joe

From: Joe 3/04/02
Subject: Question on stocking a 30 gal tank
Ok, I have a 30 gal tank and I am not sure what direction I want to go with it. I have 13 fish now that is a mix of "starter fish" that I used to get the tank going and didnt expect to last (People told me they would probably die first time around) and fish that I like. The problem I am having is, I have some fish that I want to keep (2 Bala Sharks, 2 loaches, swordtails, gouramis) but none of them really have any color and the tank looks bland. Ideally, I would like to make the tank a more agressive

From: sherrin 3/04/02
Subject: Beta questions.....
How often should I add new salt to the water? I plan to change the water in the 1.5 gallon tank at 20% every third to fourth day. Should I add a teaspoon of more salt then, or maybe less, or even every other time I change water? Obi-wan is doing really well. He is always at the front of the tank swimming around when I am at the computer. He likes to swim to any point on the tank where a person is watching him. He will just stay there and stare right back. Thank you all for walking me through the first few days of owning a beta. I am so afraid of losing this one. Sherrin

From: Leslie 3/04/02
Subject: Re: Beta questions.....
For 1.5 gallons, you will add 1 1/2 tsp's. If you're changing 20% of the water every 3rd or 4th day, add 1/3 tsp. This is about .3 gallons. If it's a little more or a little less, it won't hurt your betta.

From: Kyra Morris 3/04/02
Subject: Growth Hormones
I am doin a science project for my class and my partner and I are adding growth hormones to observe the environment and thier appetite. I would like to know if this is possible and how can I get these special hormones? Please respond A.S.A.P!!!!! Thank you, Kyra Morris

From: unknown 3/04/02
Subject: Re: Growth Hormones
i love u kyra.... ur secret admirer!

From: Sarah 3/04/02
Subject: For Leslie...From Sarah
Well, I've tested the water and here's the results: ammonia-0, nitrite-0, pH-7.5(they've adapted-3 other angels are happy), hardness-I don't know but it took 20 drops to change the colour of the water. Yes I add aquarium salt to my tanks and no redness around his gills. I checked him again the next day after I posted the message and it was half opening and today it appears normal...however....now he's got ick so I'm treating for that.Just this morning he's got two white spots on his forehead. I hope this all goes away! Anyways, leave a message if you have anymore suggestions and I'll let you know how the ick situation is in a couple days. Thanks for your help! Sarah.

From: Leslie 3/04/02
Subject: Re: For Leslie...From Sarah
Ok, the hardness calculates at about 358 which is way too high for angels. They like much softer water at about 50-100 ppm or about 5 drops! This may very well be the reason for the gill problem and what's making him more prone to other diseases, i.e. ick. There are products you can buy to soften the water. Also be careful with salt. I know it's good for ick/velvet, but angels just are much more sensitive to it. I'd use about 14-1/2 tsp per gallon and/or some Maracide instead.

From: Sarah 3/05/02
Subject: Re: For Leslie...From Sarah
OK thanks for your help. By the way I never did add all the salt you're supposed to because I didn't want to accidently put too muvh in later (ie. water changes) so I added enough for 25 gal (I have a 37 gal) so maybe this sits around the right amount in that case. Do you think it might be possible that they have ajusted to the hardness? They are very active, eat very well and just don't appear to be your typical stressed fish (except for the one and even he's active and eating well). Could you let me know what they might do when it's not so obvious that there's a problem. I caught the gill thing but it's back to normal now. They are very strange fish.....

From: Leslie 3/05/02
Subject: Re: For Leslie...From Sarah
I'll post at the top of this page because I imagine Clint's getting ready to archive again.

From: dave 3/04/02
Subject: prenant molly
I have a prenant molly who is just about to burst. I want to take her out of the tank and put her in a seperate one. The only thing I have to put her in is a 1 gallon round bowl. I have a small UGF with an airstone and pump, will this suffice? I do not have lighting or heat to put in this 1 gallon bowl. Do you think this will make a good hospital tank for the mother and the fry? I have added 1 teaspoon of salt and conditioner to the water already.

From: Michelle 3/04/02
Subject: Re: prenant molly
Moving a molly when she's very close to dropping can be tramatic and cause her to abort the fry. What other fish do you have because Molly's are fairly good about not eating their young. Have you though about just providing htem with lots of cover?

From: dave 3/04/02
Subject: Re: pregnant molly
I have her in a tank with other mollies. I have always had real grass and fake grass along with real and fake plants. There is plenty of cover, but the last batch of fry was eaten. I want to move her this time because I want the babies to live.

From: Michelle 3/05/02
Subject: Re: pregnant molly
Try getting one of those breeder nets or boxes that float in your community tank, be careful not to stress her too much or ever take her out of the water. Personally I prefer the boxes because you can see what's going on in there so much better. I would get at least a medium one, that way babies have lots of room and the mother doesn't feel cramped.

From: dave 3/05/02
Subject: Re: pregnant molly
I had one of those nets at one time. I found babies in the community part of the water, so I transferred them to the net that was placed inside of the community tank occupied only by the mollies. Eventually, they all died. I thought I was taken good care of them feeding them baby brine shrimp...but it didn't work. Thought maybe the water quality was bad...no, all test were within tolorable levels. Don't know what happened, so I don't want to rely on the nets. Would it not be a good idea as stated in my original post to put the mother in a seperate tank until the babies are born, and then place her back in the original community tank?

From: Michelle 3/05/02
Subject: Re: pregnant molly
If you are intent on moving her then at the very least you need to use a glass/container tranfer method so that she is never out of the water at all. You don't want her to lose the babies right? I use a hard breeding box. It's made of clear plastic. I don't like the net ones, they get too dirty in my opinion and I've heard about a lot of dying in them. I've had good luck with moving fry, even very small fry with the container method so you could put her in the breeder and move the babies afterwards too. That's up to you. I understand wanting them to be in a seperate place. Good luck.

From: schaf 3/04/02
Subject: Red-belly piranah needs good home (Guelph, ON)
If you live near Guelph, Ontario and would like to buy our pet piranah for a good price, please email kharker@flemingc.on.ca or shifty_schaf@yahoo.ca He needs to go to make room for new fish fry (coming soon). If you read this by March 15th/2002 and are interested in this fish, we'd like to hear from you. P.S. He is about a year old and is a good size!

From: Mane's mom 3/04/02
Subject: male betta in vase (two years) hiding in glass stones
Just a question for anyone... My betta clincked around last night into the glass stones in his vase and hid and has not been active today..but I can see him nestled deep down and he is "sleeping ??" all day. (it is cold today and 65 degrees in the house). There is the bubbly surface on the top of his bowl (someone told me he wants a girlfriend..). I've had him for two years..he is healthy and happy...it just appears that today he is hybernating??!!?? Anyone have any experience with this sort of non-activity? Thanks.

From: katie 3/04/02
Subject: Re: male betta in vase (two years) hiding in glass stones
Two years? in a vase? Congrats! SOunds like you must take great care of him:) Perhaps he is getting old and in his last stage of life...I would try to find a warmer spot for him since you can't heat the vase....and just continue to keep and eye on him for physical signs of disease...if you don't keep salt in the water perhaps you could add some...might help, and it won't hurt... on another note, all healthy bettas should build bubble nest, but he does not need a girlfriend unless you are going to mate them-he would most likely kill her if you plopped her in the vase, maybe though you could get a girl to sit beside his tank to look at from time to time. good luck and let us know how he is soon katie

From: kel 3/04/02
Subject: betta breeding and fry questions
Hello there! I am really hoping to find someone who can help me with all sorts of betta breeding questions. I am presently tending my first batch of fry. I think that there was originally about 25-40 of them, but now there is likely less than 20. I am wondering if I can feed them young daphnia (my brine shrimp didn't hatch)? I am also wondering if I can move them to a new and cleaner tank tomorrow? (They were born last Sunday). I have been using the tube food for egg layer fry and the tank gets pretty dirty. What temp is good for fry? When should they go to a really big tank? (do they need to?) I would really appreciate any help from anyone with some betta experience because I am going to breed my fish again soon and try to do things right to lower my fish loss...I have a really good breeding pair (finally) and want to see their potential. Also, how long until the fry might eat some dry food (fry bites?). What is the growth rate like? (they are still so tiny!) Thanks

From: Donte' 3/04/02
Subject: betta breeding and fry answers
If you've got about $20 to spend on your fish i have a few things i can't recommedn enough --- the first is daphnia - yes betta fry can eat newborn daphnia- after a few days anyway. Bonus is that the daphnia will clear the algea and other filterable materials from the water ( like the egg yolk and yeast taht make up the liquid fry food ) another thing is microworms --- betta fry can devore this asthey are even smaller than brine shrimp, they also have the bonus of not causeing the swim bladder disorder an over abundance of brine is famous for thrid is grindal worms - you can grow these in a bowl of peat moss,,,,they are a great juvinle food but adults eat them as well, perfect thing to condition females on. you can get all of these at http://www.livefoodcultures.com/ also try www.brineshrimpdirect.com -- here you can buy golden pearsl -- which are a tiny suppliment dry type food for babies, and you can buy unhatchable decapulated brine shrimp. These are actually more nutrious than hatch brine and can be sprinkled over the water like pellt food. the only disadvanage is that they dont' awake the prey instict that causes babies to swim after food -- but nce you teach the babies to go for dry they will fatten nicely on this stuff. if youc an maintain an constant 78 degrees thats best --- a couple degrees weither way and you will be alright, the most important thin is to keep the fish out ofdrafts --- partly cover youre tank with sandwhich wrap ( or completely cover and poke holes for air exchange ) and this willthe the surface above the water warm and humind - great fo the babies as they develop the laberyinth organ in thereheads. be very careful moveing them,,,, i'd instead take a siphon and remove aboue 24-50 percent of the wate inteh tank you have them in, each day, and replace it with fresh aged water.... moveing them into completely new water could cause far too much stress for fry. depending on how many babies you have you could be fine with a 10 gallon tank until the males are old enough to be distinguished and jarred. by the tine they are all and inch long you shoul have no more than 2 to a gallon and thats pushing it unless you've got live plant and a great filter. if yo have 20 left - i wouldn't worry, just keep them clean and let them grow. if your next spawn is lager, wait until they are large enough tolook like fish instead of tadpoles before onsidering moveing them, and then do so by takeing a cup and slowly scooping them, takeing large anoumts of old water with the babies that are moved. I hope i've helped, *S* if i have and can be of mroe assistance feel freet o mail Dana http://www.bettabids.com/mysitebuilder/Donte/Asgard.html

From: Sarah002 3/04/02
Subject: Re: betta breeding and fry questions
ah..i have a link for you I found this site full of good stuff http://www.bettasrus.com/Funstuff/index.htm

From: Kel (P.S) 3/04/02
Subject: please email kharker@flemingc.on.ca if you have betta answers. thanks so much
Thank you

From: Sarah 3/04/02
Subject: Re: please email kharker@flemingc.on.ca if you have betta answers. thanks so much
Hi there. I found this site very useful to find otu about betta breeding and how to treat the fry http://www.bettasrus.com/Funstuff/index.htm good luck!

From: jeff 3/04/02
Subject: siamese alge eaters
I have heard fo an alge eater that will clean out your gravel eventhough this is not a re placement for changeing water or cleaning the tank it is a help my prblem is i dont know what spicies it is i saw on a web site that said that is was a siamese alge eater after that i found this group can you tellme if they were right and what are the better bottom feeders reguardless of ph needs

From: Karen 3/04/02
Subject: Re: siamese alge eaters
Just keep in mind they only eat lost food not fish waste. They also need to be fed a sinking food. many starve if they have to depend on only the food that falls to the bottom of the tank. Most catfish and loaches do a good job eating fallen food.

From: Leslie 3/04/02
Subject: Re: siamese alge eaters
That's right. I have one chinese algae eater but would go with 3 or more (depending on tank size) corydoras catfish. They are very docile, the other fish don't bother them, and pH is not an issue. They're also very cool fish!

From: HappyBoy 3/05/02
Subject: Re: siamese alge eaters
Try the easiest to keep and spawn - Bronze Corydora. The Panda corydoras are the hardest to keep and here, it sells for 2.5 times the price of an ordinary Bronze Corydora.

From: Leslie 3/05/02
Subject: Re: siamese alge eaters
I have emeralds and albinos and never one bit of trouble keeping them...have had them for almost a year with only one loss due to a severe gourami attack and fungal infection in the wound.

From: big fry 3/04/02
Subject: angel fish conditions
Hi I know that angelfish like water 7 to 6 ph but my water in my area is about 8.4 i went to my friends house and he had giant angels 4 to 6 in rely beautyful golden and zebras my question is how did he do it he has a 10 gallon tank like mine I wwould like to own these wonderful fish but im afraid they might die can any one help?

From: anne 3/05/02
Subject: Re: angel fish conditions
My area has high ph levels and the only thing to lower it is distilled water in water changes or peat granular in your filter. Ifyou buy angels from your area they likely are used to higher ph. But don't get angels if you only have a 10 gal tank. My fish store advised me only to have a max of 1 angel in a 10 gal. I have a 35 gal. and i had a terrible time with 6 angels fighting and being stressed. They all died even though the fish store said i could have 6. You should have at least 2 angels together and 2 in a 10 gal are too much.

From: Karen 3/04/02
Subject: Re: angel fish conditions
Angels can adapt to a higher ph if adapted slowly. As for 4 large angels in a ten. I am guessing he bought them large or does a lot of water changes. Or what happens to us all from time to time is plain dumb luck.

From: Dr. Bubble face Jones 3/04/02
Subject: Re: angel fish conditions
Yeah, angels that big should be in a larger tank. How long has he had them in this 10 gallon?

From: big fry 3/04/02
Subject: Re: angel fish conditions
he said around 6 months now

From: roby 3/05/02
Subject: Re: angel fish conditions
i bought a tiny angel about 3 years ago and now it's giant and it was just luck because before i bought my large tank it was in a pretty small one for it's size and i never checked the ph and it just kept on growing. now it's in a very big tank with other angels which i bought when i got this tank and i regularly check the ph and all but they've never grown as big as him. sometimes it's just luck

From: Timboi 3/04/02
Subject: 20H - Kribs or convicts
Hi, I've got a 20G high tank and I'm going to stock it with either a pair of kribs or convicts. Does anyone have any exp. with a pair of either of these and will a 20 be big enough for convicts?

From: Karen 3/04/02
Subject: Re: 20H - Kribs or convicts
A 20 high should be big enough for either fish. Have not kept firemouths but convicts are hardy. If tehy like your conditions they will breed rapidly making guppies look like part timers.

From: Leslie 3/04/02
Subject: Re: 20H - Kribs or convicts
I'd go with the convicts!

From: Attila 3/05/02
Subject: I'd go with convicts too! nm

From: Leslie 3/04/02
Subject: Clint or marine person...another question!
Hello, I wish to convert my well-established 10G tank to a marine tank soon. Clint has given me some good advice and I've read most of the petfish marine tank set-up. My questions are (still): What is the ratio of fish per gallon in saltwater? Would damsels be a good choice and if so, how many? Would a lionfish or scorpionfish be a good choice (I am getting a 29 or 55G next month)and if so, how many? How about starfish and what can be put with them? My other interestes are tangs, clownfish, blue devils, butterflyfish, wimplefish, triggerfish, and royal grammas. I like yellow seahorses, but Clint advised against it with any other fish. So, if I had a species tank of these, how many could I put in? I'm not interested at all in gobys or blennys. I am a novice, but learn very quickly. Thanks for your time and comments!

From: Clint 3/05/02
Subject: Re: Clint or marine person...another question!
I wish to convert my well-established 10G tank to a marine tank soon. Clint has given me some good advice and I've read most of the petfish marine tank set-up. My questions are (still): What is the ratio of fish per gallon in saltwater? Sorry noone else is answering you. But heres some more of my input. The ratio I would use is about 1 small (damsel type) fish per 5 gallons. I DONT count the stuff in live rock as the rock filtration capacity offsets it bioload. Would damsels be a good choice and if so, how many? Excellent choice to start a marine tank, again 1 per 5 gallons but don't have just 2, they will fight, if possible have at least 3. Would a lionfish or scorpionfish be a good choice (I am getting a 29 or 55G next month)and if so, how many? Not sure if they fight or not, I don't think so. But 1 lionfish in a 29 would be excellent, but it will limit what else you can put in with it as the Lionfish considers everything that moves to be food. How about starfish and what can be put with them? Starfish would be good with Seahorses, and most small reef fish. My other interestes are tangs, clownfish, blue devils, butterflyfish, wimplefish, triggerfish, and royal grammas. Everything above except the triggers are compatible. A trigger is about the meanest fish in the world to other fish the same size or smaller. I like yellow seahorses, but Clint advised against it with any other fish. So, if I had a species tank of these, how many could I put in? If you got the dwarf variety you could have about 3 to a gallon, the bigger ones are stocked at about 1 per 5 gallons and are much more difficult to keep and feed. I'm not interested at all in gobys or blennys. AHH, come on, Gobies have personality! I am a novice, but learn very quickly. Thanks for your time and comments! If you've read my articles about saltwater you pretty much know everything I can say. I am not keeping marine tanks now. I got tired of them in about 3 years. I like spawning and raising fry etc, so the interest for me went away pretty quick once I spawned some seahorses and raised a few clowns in a breeder net. Clint

From: greg grissom 3/04/02
Subject: have breeding pairs of angels-german blue blushing for trade
i have only one strain of angels, i need to get more, i have tons of blue blushings, from breeding pairs, to dime size, will trade for any other strains, breeding pairs to dime size, e-mail me with any offers! thanks greggrissom@hotmail.com

From: Leslie 3/04/02
Subject: Re: have breeding pairs of angels-german blue blushing for trade
Hi, Are these fresh or saltwater angels? I assume they're freshwater. Where do you live and are you interested only in breeding pairs or also different strains of angels besides what you have, even though they may both be males or females? I live in Florida and angelfish are a dime a dozen here, so mostly it depends on what you'll pay for shipping. What colors/patterns are you most interested in? I can probably get you anything you want. Angelfish are great, aren't they? Along with bettas (male and female), dwarf gouramis, and Rift Lake cichlids, they are my most favorite fish. I wish my 55 gallon was empty and I could have nothing but the above-mentioned fish in it! Let me knowvia this board or my email listed above.

From: Lynn 3/04/02
Subject: Tank cleaner
What fish can I get to eat stuff off the sand bottom? I have non-aggressive fish. I've been told catfish will do the trick.

From: Karen 3/04/02
Subject: Re: Tank cleaner
Catfish will eat uneaten food but not fish waste. For that you need good filtration. However you also need to offer them their own food, what falls is probably not enough to keep them going unless you are overfeeding.

From: Lynn 3/04/02
Subject: Re: Tank cleaner
OK. Thanks. Anything is an improvement. I might try a catfish.

From: Karen 3/04/02
Subject: Re: Tank cleaner
If you go with cories they like to be in groups if you have the room.

From: Lynn 3/04/02
Subject: Tank cleaner
What fish can I get to eat stuff off the sand bottom? I have non-aggressive fish. I've been told catfish will do the trick.

From: peter 3/04/02
Subject: my fish can't really stay right side up
I have a beta and he was just sitting on the bottom of his vase today, almost like he COULDN'T go to the surface, like as if he was too heavy or something (that's how it looked). So I changed the water (kept it at room temperature), and now he's at the surface, but he's having trouble staying right side up. His body keeps trying to twist, and he has to try to keep it in the normal position. Any advice?

From: Eric 3/04/02
Subject: Re: my fish can't really stay right side up
He might have swim bladder infection. There's a medicine for bettas called "BettaMax". Try to find it in the fish store. BettaMax claims to treat everything, so whatever is the problem will probably be taken care of. For now, maybe you could add a little salt to the water. Aquarium salt or table salt, and 1 teaspoon per gallon. Also, since he's having problem swimming to the top for air, move him to another container, and fill it up with about 3 inches of water. The shallow water will allow him to get air easier. Eric

From: Leslie 3/04/02
Subject: Re: my fish can't really stay right side up
Eric is right...especially about the Bettamax and shallow water. I do believe he has swim bladder disease. Unfortunately, once these symptoms appear, a fish is very lucky to survive. BUT, go ahead with the Bettamax and use the shallow water and salt along with it. Follow the directions to the letter and don't worry about over-dosing him. If he's in a bowl and not a tank, one capsule per day for 5 days. This stuff is very messy...turns the water blue like Tidy Bowl but I and others have had much success with it. One other thing you may try which has worked for me: get a small container such as a betta viewer, put about 2-3 tablespoons (yes, that's a lot!) and nearly fill it with warm water....not too hot, but warm. Put him in it for about 1-2 minutes and then quickly put him back in the tank where you already will have the bettamax. If he seems really weak, only leave him in for one minute. He may get agitated about the amount of salt he's in. If he freaks out too bad, only leave him in for about 30-45 seconds. And definitely use the bettamax for the full duration as well as 1 tsp. of salt per gallon Hope he gets better!

From: SAL 3/04/02
Subject: Re: my fish can't really stay right side up
Is swim bladder disease contagious? It sounds like what took out my two blue dwarf gouramis. They got real weird at the end and would swim in like spirals as if it was too much for them to swim straight. Should I be concerned for the other fish in my tank?

From: Karen 3/04/02
Subject: Re: my fish can't really stay right side up
Swim bladder is not contagious, it is a symptom. Could be bacterial or food types or the way a fish is eating. Usually affects goldfish. Depending on what is causing it is what may or may not be contagious. You mention you have him in a vase. Is this one of those peace lilly setups? If so are you maintaining water changes and a feeding schedule?

From: john 3/04/02
Subject: clint again...got my fish to breed...
I got a pair of apistogramma macmasteri, a pair of microgeophagus ramirezi, and a pair of pseudropheus lombardoi(check my last post, donīt know where to get information on this fish). So, i`m off to see which one breeds first. Just to let you know. Whatīs your guess?

From: Clint 3/04/02
Subject: Re: clint again...got my fish to breed...
I'd bet on the ps. lombardoi, I assume they are an african cichlid. The apistos will be a pita but will be worth it in the long run. They are sort of picky about their water, like it soft and acidic. The rams might surprise us and go first or never, they are unpredictable. The macmasteri are a good fish to have, for trading etc, they aren't real easy to get. Clint

From: john 3/04/02
Subject: Re: clint again...got my fish to breed...
i`ll let you know how it all works out. Thanks again for the help. john

From: john 3/04/02
Subject: Do you know this fish?
It`s called pseudropheus lombardoi. The males are bluish with black stripes and the females are yellow. I believe they are cichlids. But i canīt find them anywhere on the internet. If you know about them, please let me know. Thanks.

From: Clint 3/04/02
Subject: they are kenyis, what a coincidence
They are the same fish as someone else had, pseudotropheus lombardi kenyi. Just did a search on them, theres tons of info on the net Clint

From: big nig 3/04/02
Subject: guess what i got
i have had a problem with agressive bloodfins tetras killing any fish i put in the tank .. well i think i took care of that .. over the weekend i got 4 baby red bellied piranhas .. they have already made it clear to every one that they are in charge .. the only bad part is that they ripped the fin off one of my irredescent sharks and when i get home i expect it to be dead .. does any one have any knowledge of how piranhas are ??

From: Leslie 3/04/02
Subject: Re: guess what i got
No, they're supposed to be illegal in the U.S. Are you sure you got bloodfin etetras? I have 5 or 6 and have never had any problems with them. I know they have a reputation for being community fish, but I've seen other community fish...mollies included...get pretty aggressive at times. Do you still have the bloodfins or did the pirhana eat them? If you still have them, why not just euthanize them instead of them going through the agony of being eaten? I use ice water and they shut down in a matter of seconds.

From: big nig 3/04/02
Subject: Re: guess what i got
i dont think they are illegal .. i bought them from my lfs .. open to the public in chicago

From: Karen 3/04/02
Subject: Re: guess what i got
They are illegal in the souther states and warmer states. Here in the northland they are legal since if turned loose would not survive out winters. However these are large fish requiring large tanks. Four in a minimum 200 gallon tank will probably get along if well fed. However they will turn on the other fish and each other in a smaller tank. Look up thier care on the internet, I think you will find this fish is more than you bargained for.

From: Leslie 3/04/02
Subject: Re: guess what i got
Interesting...I live in Florida so that would explain them being illegal here. I think they're cool fish, though!

From: veadra 3/04/02
Subject: tankmates with the bumblebees?
I just rearanged my tanks and I put 5 neons and a female betta inthe ten. Would these be ok with the bumblebees? I've heard that for some people they nip at anything they can catch and for others they're just fine. I'm pretty sure the betta will be ok, but not sure about the neons, after all they're little fish. I can always move them to the 33 community tank if they won't get along, but it would be crowded with all the baby mollies in there (almost 40" of fish, all small size). Oh, I also got a dwarf frog to go in with my male betta in the 2-gallon. He's so cute!