55g Planted tank (The Start)

[Bk718]

A few weeks back I managed to find a decent 55g tank setup for sale on ebay. Well after a few non stop bids I managed to get the tank for an awesome price.
The Setup included: Perfecto Tank, wooden stand, hood with light and I managed to get an eheim canister filter from the seller as well.
(ebay photo of the tank)
http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=158&pictureid=915

Once I got the tank home I began cleaning it/testing it for leaks.. Well after tank was 1/4 filled.. what do you know.. A darn crack at the brace, and as the tank filled more the gap got larger and larger until it just snapped completely. The whole top frame looked weathered and im glad it happened now and not when the tank was already up and running.
I tried contacting the seller to see if he can perhaps work with me and split the cost of a new brace.. well that *BEEP* ignored me completely..

So I went ahead and ordered a new frame with brace from ThatFishPlace.. I got an email from them today saying that it has been shipped, so i should get it by friday (so thats GREAT news)

Today i started stripping the old frame off the tank.. And lets just say WOW is it a real pain in the *BEEP*.. But after some sweat and elbow grease I managed to take all the plastic off (still need to clean the silicone off with alcohol)
http://s4.tinypic.com/icuxix.jpg

Well this is where i stand right now..
If the frame comes this friday then I will hopefully have the tank up and filled by monday. And thats when the fun begins.. New wood, More plants, MORE FUN!!!

Well until next update..

Thanks for checking out the beginning of my new Planted Tank!!

[Bk718]

And heres a sneak peek at the future wood.. (Ricky <Inka4040> and I managed to get a nice Manzanita wood package)
http://s4.tinypic.com/msyby8.jpg

(will try and include more photos in this thread since everyone sure loves photos!!!)

[247Plants]

Nice wood.

Cant wait to see more pics.

[Redneck Woman]

It's gonna be great watching this come together!!!!!!!!!:) What fish are you gonna put in there?

[Bk718]

As far as fish my stock will be the same as the 29g (angels,rams,rummies,cherry barbs,cories) but I will up the schools.

Ooo forgot to include.. This tank will be replacing the 29/10g that i am running right now.. So bye bye to those tanks within a week..

[NeonFlux]

Awesome BK. I can't wait to see it progress. :)

[ymeramees]

Bk828 (http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/member.php?u=79276)Well after tank was 1/4 filled.. what do you know.. A darn crack at the brace, and as the tank filled more the gap got larger and larger until it just snapped completely. Oih, sorry to hear that. I'll keep my fingers crossed for you.
How big is 55 g in litres? 1000? Bigger?
I will be getting new, 550 Litre tank at the end of this month, hopefully :) and it looks rahter big, when I look at yours, it seems, that mine is a tiny box.
Anyways, waiting for news and new pics as your tank comes together.

[pre98zetec]

Oih, sorry to hear that. I'll keep my fingers crossed for you.
How big is 55 g in litres? 1000? Bigger?
I will be getting new, 550 Litre tank at the end of this month, hopefully :) and it looks rahter big, when I look at yours, it seems, that mine is a tiny box.
Anyways, waiting for news and new pics as your tank comes together.55g is 208 litres. 550 litres is 148g.


As all of that wood going in there? Looks good!!

[ymeramees]

55g is 208 litres. 550 litres is 148g.
Really? Thanks.
This pic sure can fool you then. :perv:

[rich311k]

I look forward to watching the build. I love your tanks. Good luck getting the tank all straightened out.

[Bk718]

Really? Thanks.
This pic sure can fool you then. :perv:

its only 48"x21"x13"
lol good luck with your 150g tank.

[Bk718]

55g is 208 litres. 550 litres is 148g.


As all of that wood going in there? Looks good!!

lol no not all the wood. The wood is being split between Inka4040 and I. And then im further splitting it with a buddy of mine who also just setup a planted tank.


Thanks for the support Neon and Rich!! :headbang2::headbang2:

[jm1212]

cant wait to see it up and running

[jpittman_56]

Congrats on the new 55, can't wait to see it all set up, I love the look of your planted tanks!

[Hurley]

Looks great! I love the look of branches in a planted tank. I think it looks so cool. I can't wait to follow along and watch it evolve.

[Que]

What's the date on that tank? I'm sure you've checked the silicone but if it's original and over 15 years old I'd think about redoing it. I've thrown away a 12 year old 20 gallon tank with a cracked frame just because I didn't want to bother with resealing it and getting a new frame. Yours is different though. Size matters when it comes to resealing a tank. The bigger the tank the more worthwhile it is.

Psyched about yer new tank. I know it'll be cool.

Q

[ibr3ak]

About time.

[Bk718]

Thanks everyone. I am 2 psyched about getting this monster up and running.

Que I tried checking the bottom of the tank for a date.. it has some tiny paper below it saying something like "distributed by _____" but i dont think it has a date.. Ill look again.
The seller told me the tank is 3-4 yrs old.
When i was cleaning the tank I was actually testing for leaks as well and from looks of it there werent any. But either way once the new frame is on ill be retesting once again.

[Mr. Convict]

Wow nice!

Can't wait to see how this turns out!

Goodluck! :D

[Bk718]

Thanks Mr

Woohoo Got my frame just now..

[Redneck Woman]

Dang, you sure got that quick!:grinyes:

[Bk718]

Yup yup. Lucky to be on the same coast as thatfishplace.

In a few will make a trip to homedepot to see if they sell GE Silicone I

[Bk718]

Just finished adding the new frame..
Used GE Silicone I for the application, which is extremely cheap.
hmmm the smell of silicone :crazy:

Now we wait until the weekend to once again clean the tank and do a water test..

Question: it doesnt matter if you OD or add "some" silicone to the frame.. As long as its enough to hold it in place then its all good right??

[Que]

Yep... excess can always be scraped away. It's better to have more than less here as some people have had water migrate under the frame and over the glass.

Q

[rich311k]

In this case more would be better than less. I hope it tests out well for you.

[Mgamer20o0]

i seen that wood before

[myswtsins]

How did I miss this post? Yes you did get a good deal on that tank, I know cause I was watching it! =) Didn't feel like going all the way up there for it though, instead I am going to Philly to get a 72g bowfront (GREAT deal on Ebay!). :)

Congratz on the tank! Love your wood! Will you be keeping the links for your 10g & 29g in your signature? I sure hope so, they are great links!

[Rbishop]

Can't wait for the updates and pics! Good luck!

[Bk718]

i seen that wood before

lol did Rick (inka4040) show you??


How did I miss this post? Yes you did get a good deal on that tank, I know cause I was watching it! =) Didn't feel like going all the way up there for it though, instead I am going to Philly to get a 72g bowfront (GREAT deal on Ebay!). :)

Congratz on the tank! Love your wood! Will you be keeping the links for your 10g & 29g in your signature? I sure hope so, they are great links!

lol dont tell me you were the one outbidding me.. I was going to spend tops $60 on the setup but some seller there kept outbidding me.. So my friend pushed me and said ehh wants another 20 bucks.. and then that $20 jumped to $40

Yup will be keeping the links just as eye candy.. Will be sad to see those tanks go but will have this monster to work with..


Can't wait for the updates and pics! Good luck!
Thanks bob

Today I started cleaning the space where the tank will go. Got the stand already in place just have to add a few shims to level it out.

Also washed some SMS i had on the side for additional substrate.. thing is such a pain to rinse.. Still have cloudy water in the bucket no matter how many times i poured/drained..

Hopefully will have water in the tank by tomorrow/monday.. With the wood coming in on wednesday + time to let it water log, by next weekend i should have it up and planted.

[Coler]

cool - looking forward to updates

[BubbleBack_Ek9_]

I like all the pieces of wood...

[jmhart]

That would could make a really awesome center piece, full of anubias and java fern, all kind of exploding from a common center.

[Bk718]

jeff thats actually exactly what ill be going for.. An "explosion" from the center. Plus should be getting some anubias from mgamer soon so they will go to great use.

Update...
So I filled/cleaned the tank this afternoon outside to make sure everything is fine, and all was well.

Brought the tank up to my room and there it stands still empty. Reason, RAN OUT OF SHIMS GRRRRRRR!!! lol So tomorrow will have to make a trip to homedepot and pickup a pack of shims..
Just a few photos of the tank in its new place..
http://s4.tinypic.com/2vl0fog.jpg

Stock light on
http://s4.tinypic.com/2rmmbg2.jpg

[irishspy]

This is going to be fun to follow. What kind of filter are you putting on it?

[Bk718]

This is going to be fun to follow. What kind of filter are you putting on it?

Thanks Irish.

Lighting will be: 2x55w AhSupply
Filtration will be: Fluval 404 and Eheim 2215
Substrate will be mix of Black gravel and soilmaster select
And as far as co2 and ferts. co2 will be diy for a few weeks and ferts will be seachem line until i finish them up.. Then hopefully will move up to pressurized and dry ferts.

[myswtsins]

Lol, no it was not me outbidding you, I swear! :) I was just observing.

I completely understanding trying to stick to your "limits". It pays off sometimes though, I went $0.50 over my limit once and won. So you never know & that is what makes us keep going! :)

Do you plan on putting those 2x55 watt AHsupply lights in a new canopy??? :D

[DAVIDFBT]

I look forward to seeing this as my inspiration for my own 55. :) How much did you buy it for.

[Bk718]

Lol, no it was not me outbidding you, I swear! :) I was just observing.

I completely understanding trying to stick to your "limits". It pays off sometimes though, I went $0.50 over my limit once and won. So you never know & that is what makes us keep going! :)

Do you plan on putting those 2x55 watt AHsupply lights in a new canopy??? :D

Since i wont have the energy to build a whole new wood canopy for the tank Ill be placing the kits inside the stock strip. I wont be using the hood part since it really blocks the light and doesnt let it spread evenly.. But who knows what the future will bring.. perhaps build a simple wood canopy like the one on my 29.


I look forward to seeing this as my inspiration for my own 55. :) How much did you buy it for.
lol thanks David
Got it all for $100
Tank/stand/hood with light and eheim filter.
But with the repairs/spare parts, it all adds up to like $150

[Redneck Woman]

I'm glad to hear it has no leaks. Have you gotten your shims?

[Bk718]

I'm glad to hear it has no leaks. Have you gotten your shims?

I was going to wait until i get the wood to update but what the heck...

Thanks to my bro the tank was put in perfect level. (will be cutting away the shims once i fully setup the tank.. And yes had to use this many shims since the front of the tank was way out of level)
I also rinsed some extra sms i had on the side and added that to the tank as well. Filled about half way and was done for the day..
http://s4.tinypic.com/2hdbrjs.jpg
http://s4.tinypic.com/11v2zc1.jpg


Tomorrow should be getting my wood and will throw it in the tank to water log.. Hopefully the branches will stay down by friday/saturday so i can begin the scaping process.

[WaywardSon]

It's starting to get really good now - glad I found this thread. Keep those pics coming BK!

[ibr3ak]

Green water is so sexy :D

[Bk718]

It's starting to get really good now - glad I found this thread. Keep those pics coming BK!

Thanks.
I need a straight jacket. So hard to sit here with an empty tank in the other room.. Grrr will take some photos of the wood tomorrow


Green water is so sexy :D
green water? mustve been the reflection of flash/background/cloudy water
no more green water for me, i had enough of it before

[DAVIDFBT]

Yikes, I hope my stand isn't that unlevel. How will you cut the shims without cutting your own wood floor?

[Bk718]

Yikes, I hope my stand isn't that unlevel. How will you cut the shims without cutting your own wood floor?

lol it was a good 1/4" off
I didnt cut the shims yet but will be scoring it on top and then just bending it towards the stand until it snaps off.

[jmhart]

lol it was a good 1/4" off
I didnt cut the shims yet but will be scoring it on top and then just bending it towards the stand until it snaps off.


A drimmel would be a great help to sand off the edges.

[Bk718]

A drimmel would be a great help to sand off the edges.

yea a dremel would be helpful here but not sure if i have one. Will have to check the tool shed..

Got the wood today!! Just waiting for Rick (Inka4040) to pick out his pieces and then I can start soaking. :headbang2:

[Fishy_Fun]

Looking Good,
Can't wait to see this thing scaped.i was just thinking i spent more than you did and all i got was a ADA 7 gallon lol you got a huge 55:)

[Bk718]

Looking Good,
Can't wait to see this thing scaped.i was just thinking i spent more than you did and all i got was a ADA 7 gallon lol you got a huge 55:)

lol aint that something. Maybe you shouldve upgraded to a larger tank with all that $$ :silly:

Update:
Wood is soaking, some pieces are ready. Today will probably break down the 10g and add that substrate to the 55. Also will have to look around what stones i have, maybe will use a few in the scape.
slowly things will be coming together...

[Que]

Its best to do it as you are and take your time. I find it goes better that way. Fewer mistakes happen.

Q

[Bk718]

Its best to do it as you are and take your time. I find it goes better that way. Fewer mistakes happen.

Q

I couldnt agree more. Though I really want to get the tank up and running asap, im still in no rush.

Well as I promised todays tasks: Gathering stones that will work in the scape

I had a few granite stones laying which my brother and I collected a while back for his african cichlid tank. But the problem was that they were all 2 big. So i took the largest one and went to work..
It was impossible to just break the stone up with a plain ol hammer so I went BIG!! lol
Electric hammer and electric drill.
http://s4.tinypic.com/jsiv05.jpg

First made a few holes in the stone and then went at it with the hammer. Broke apart like cake. Lets just say i went 2 crazy on it and about 1/4 of the stone was trash, pieces were either 2 small or were weird shape
(trash photo)
http://s4.tinypic.com/24mc1lg.jpg

Finally after picking out pieces which will be good for the scape I took a hammer and slammed up the edges making sure there were no sharp spots..
The final result:
http://s4.tinypic.com/5oedtu.jpg

:headbang2::headbang2::headbang2::headbang2:

And heres a sneak peek at the soaking process...
Filled up a few 1L bottles with water to hold down the wood
http://s4.tinypic.com/11rce9x.jpg

[Inka4040]

Dude. Your nicest tank yet!!!!

[Bk718]

Dude. Your nicest tank yet!!!!

I know.. The school of seltzer bottles are really enjoying the tank. Do you think its overstocked??

[Redneck Woman]

:popcorn: That wood is gonna look awesome!

[bluekrissyspike]

I know.. The school of seltzer bottles are really enjoying the tank. Do you think its overstocked??


are those bottles full grown? if not i would have to say they will probably outgrow the tank. also, i'd suggest adding some live plants for them to hide in as they will be much happier that way. perhaps you can look forward to some fry cans in the future.:silly:

[Bk718]

are those bottles full grown? if not i would have to say they will probably outgrow the tank. also, i'd suggest adding some live plants for them to hide in as they will be much happier that way. perhaps you can look forward to some fry cans in the future.:silly:

not yet full grown i read that they get a max of 3liters. So i guess i have juvies.. Heres them at feeding time
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/100_3236.jpg

[DAVIDFBT]

I heard they like a school of at least 6, Bk. ;)

[irishspy]

I know.. The school of seltzer bottles are really enjoying the tank. Do you think its overstocked??

Nah. They'll only grow to fit the tank. :hitting:

[ymeramees]

...can't wait :)

It is so interesting to watch the progress and I hope, you will get your tank set up before I get mine :) because, I have absolutely no idea how to scape.

[jameshilljr]

how long have you been soaking the driftwood?

[Bk718]

...can't wait :)

It is so interesting to watch the progress and I hope, you will get your tank set up before I get mine :) because, I have absolutely no idea how to scape.

Ill probably start with the scape tomorrow. But got to say, scaping is trial and error. Especially with this amount of wood.


how long have you been soaking the driftwood?

Since wednesday evening i would say. All are sinking already except for the 2 thickest pieces. Im sure give it another day and it will all go down.

[Kashta]

That's going to be awesome, Yuriy!

I can't wait to see how this goes.

[foofooree]

Awesome! Glad I stumbled onto this! Cant wait!!

[Fishy_Fun]

Looks great

[Bk718]

well guess what time it is!!
THROW WOOD IN YOUR TANK AND KILL YOURSELF FOR A GOOD HOUR TRYING TO SCAPE IT RIGHT..

sorry lol seems i got my dose of wood and empty tanks for today.
Either way after some time i came up with this wood scape.
Bare in mind that though it might seem empty between the pieces, it will all be filled in with anubias, ferns, stem plants.
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/100_3285.jpg?t=1218338719

Photo isnt that great, i was barely able to hold up the camera lol
Well let me know what you guys think.. Comments/suggestions??

[Bk718]

did a small edit.. The center seemed 2 empty so i added another branch there.
Will browse at it a few more times and then if anything will start adding some plants.

[foofooree]

Yeah, the arrangement does seem kind of empty. Add more sticks! lol

[Bk718]

Well added most of the anubias i have.. So far it was just placing them just to see how it looks, didnt plant/tie anything yet.
Photos:
http://s4.tinypic.com/15gqepv.jpg
http://s4.tinypic.com/15ceijs.jpg

[jmhart]

Dude, looks great.


And I'm thinking a tenellus foreground.

[Bk718]

Thanks jeffrey. Im either going to use micro tenellus or glosso for the foreground.
Ive got soo many plants to choose from im getting a headache just thinking about which one would look better...


Guys I will need all your suggestions right now with every step i make.
So far 2 ppl like the anubias where they are. Next step is adding some ferns.

Ill be back to post more photos.

[bluerat]

so far so good .........where are the rest of the pics....i want to see more


youre still not having my wood lol

[foofooree]

Ferns would look awesome. Imagine a large bunch of needle leaf in the back ;)

[Bk718]

thanks blue

Foo I got a nice bunch of it but wasnt sure if i should keep it together or break it into pieces. Well i decided to try and break it into pieces and place them at random spots.
Here are the shots:
http://s4.tinypic.com/rv9ixu.jpg
http://s4.tinypic.com/x20yux.jpg

[a&j_tanks]

still alot of work...keep it up

[foofooree]

That looks GREAT so far! I bet youre getting tired of misting it eh?

[Bk718]

That looks GREAT so far! I bet youre getting tired of misting it eh?
lol misting and then cleaning the front glass for the photos :grinyes:

I guess im done with the center. Now will actually bury/tie the plants by the wood.
Really hope to get it half way filled by "tonight" (already 1am)

[derekp]

keep it together, it looks really nice. It would look neat with a HM carpet around it. ;)

[Bk718]

what are you suggesting derek?? lol
:silly: ill be saving a spot just for it.


Whats funny is that the 55g is almost half planted and i still got a crap load of plants left in the 29g..
Ehh gata go get the python from my brother..

[foofooree]

Yes, hm would look awesome ;)

[Bk718]

Filled the tank almost 3/4 of the way. Threw on an AC30 temporarily to just have some water movement and filter out the dust from the sms.

The SOB factor:
The d_mn wood didnt water log. Some pieces tried to go up, but i did what i can and placed some more stones on them to weigh them down.

Will post a photo once the tank clears up a bit. (15min or so)

[Fishy_Fun]

bummer about the wood but great looking tank so far

[jaysen]

very nice...totm and its not even filled!

[foofooree]

that sucks about the wood :( I hope it didnt ruin your planting

[Bk718]

Thanks fishy

Jay lol funny, though it would be nice to try and go for totm with an empty tank..

Foo, only 2 pieces shifted slightly, but nothing major.

Filled photos:
http://s4.tinypic.com/311p0xw.jpg
http://s4.tinypic.com/33lpbom.jpg


Checkout the crazy dirt cloud by the substrate on the left side of the tank lol
No matter how many times you wash sms its still will do its own thing and give some dust in the tank..

Well work done for tonight. Pretty happy with the results. Tomorrow evening will be the rest of the planting..

[Redneck Woman]

Great job Bk! It's looking good!:)

[foofooree]

So are you going to add more sub. tomorrow?

[Bk718]

Great job Bk! It's looking good!:)

Thanks ky, i learn from the best :silly:


So are you going to add more sub. tomorrow?
yup, i will slowly start breaking down my 29g and will use the black gravel from there to top off the sms. That will also help prevent any future sms dirt clouds..

[Kashta]

It's beautiful already. You really have an eye for this.

Wish you made housecalls and could come set mine up for me. (Heh.. lol.)

[SchizotypalVamp]

BK, your tank is beautiful

[WaywardSon]

Looking very nice BK.

[noodles62]

Looks great! Can't wait to see it progress........

[ciaobella7122]

Very exciting and amazing job! I WISH I had your talent when it comes to tanks!

[Inka4040]

Dayum! That's a good looking tank! Loving the island look. Are you putting stem plants behind it?

[Bk718]

thanks everyone.

Rick behind the island probably not, will just keep it anubias,ferns there. But on the sides the options are endless..

Well i started tearing down the 29g slowly and holy crap do i have alot of plants..
Im still not working on plant arrangement in this tank but transferring plants over so later on i know what i have/how much/ and what looks good in the tank.
Heres what i have so far, a huge carpet of blyxa (not all used)
http://s4.tinypic.com/8yyr7c.jpg

Tank is already almost fully planted and im still stuck with a 29g full of plants lol..
Plant sale here i come.

[foofooree]

A very nice carpet of blyxa indeed! :D

[WaywardSon]

Did you say earlier BK - how much and what type of light are you using?

[DAVIDFBT]

Nice bk. Where are the fish from the 29?

[Bk718]

Thanks foo, I think im going to keep the blyxa carpet instead of micro tenellus. The blyxa look is growing on me.

cfsinc, for now the light is a regular 40w strip but tomorrow i plan to add the ahsupply retrofit giving me 2x55w (2wpg)

Dave the fish are still in the 29g. Ill transfer them to the this tank after im done organizing the plants.

[foofooree]

be sure to post pics when the fish go in ;)

[satanpie]

very nice

[Bk718]

be sure to post pics when the fish go in ;)

you got it.. The fish will go crazy over the space lol especially them crazy angels who seem to want every corner of the tank..

Tomorrow will be working on hooking up the ahsupply kit.. I was going to build a simple canopy just to hold the light but I am short on wood and just lazy to do it right now. So simpler way is to install it directly in the stock strip.
Heres a photo of how it will be: (thats just an 18w bulb, actual will stretch almost half way)
http://s4.tinypic.com/2qa72bs.jpg

[foofooree]

cool idea with the light :)

[nh5]

awaiting latest pics.....

[Bk718]

Redid the lighting today:
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/100_3335.jpg

And am slowly releasing fish into the tank. So far its the easiest to catch angels and micro rasboras, then come the most difficult tetras GRRRR
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/100_3340.jpg


Wont bother posting full tank shot yet since its a mess. Moving plants from the 29, leaving many to float. Basically nothing pretty yet.

Keep a look out for a after rescape sale thread in the classified later tonight

[derekp]

the hm looks good ;)

[BubbleBack_Ek9_]

Looking good and make sure to post when the tank looks good

[saram521]

Nice angels!

[noodles62]

wow! Nice angels!

[WaywardSon]

It's certainly coming together very nicely!

[Kashta]

Ooooh, love the angels. I hadn't seen those in a planted tank before. You're giving me new ideas.

[Bk718]

the hm looks good ;)
lol thanks to you :grinyes:


Looking good and make sure to post when the tank looks good
Sure will, I fixed alot of things up. Tied the anubias to stones so now they have no chance at all of floating and added a nice Crinum Calamistratum to the back of the island.


Nice angels!

wow! Nice angels!
Thanks, the angels are definitely enjoying the extra space. Actually all the fish are swimming around like crazy lol


It's certainly coming together very nicely!
Thanks :thumbsup:


Ooooh, love the angels. I hadn't seen those in a planted tank before. You're giving me new ideas.
really havent seen angels in a planted tank?? theres a few members on here with them. One of them being rich with his awesome black angel.

And as I promised a link to my sale thread.. Plenty of plants and would love for them all to go at once. Money is going to ferts/light bulbs/ and other equipment i might need for this new tank.. Major Rescape Plant Sale (http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1565187#post1565187)

[Fishy_Fun]

:omg::eek::jaw::nilly::bowing::thud::thud::rofl::y 220e::lol2::thm::woot:

WOW TANK LOOKS AWESOME!!!!!!

[Squawkbert]

Looking good - I'm sorry I didn't see this until this AM.

If you want some aquascaping advice, check out Steven Chong's articles & threads that talk about it on APC (http://www.aquaticplantcentral.com/forumapc/index.php?referrerid=15164) search Steven Chong, Aquascaping 101 and Phi - you will quickly come to see some ways to improve the 'scape (not that it's bad, I like the island look, but there are things you can do to make it look larger, more focused - incorporate the entire tank into a unified image by reducing the number of - and carefully placing the focal points).

[Redneck Woman]

Looking good! :thm: Can't wait to see a full tank shot. I bet your angels are happy with all the room.
Have you decided what other fish you want in there?

[jameshilljr]

Great progress-looks good



...The d_mn wood didnt water log. Some pieces tried to go up, but i did what i can and placed some more stones on them to weigh them down...

I understand about the wood not waterlogging. The piece I have in my 55g still floats after soaking it for about a month.

[Bk718]

Thanks fishy

Squawk ill have a look at it later for sure. Thanks for the info

Kygirl, rest of the stock will be pretty much similar to what i have now. Only thing that will happen is the schools will be increased. I noticed that the tetras and rasboras really love the extra 18" of swimming space compared to the 30" they had in 29g.

James thanks and yes it did suck that the wood didnt water log but the great thing is that it didnt rise fully to the top, just slightly shifted. In a month im sure it all be well and then maybe ill fix up the wood placement.
----------------------------------------


Well here are some random shots of the tank. I do not have any plant scape yet since im trying to get rid of plenty of plants (please check out my thread in classified) Once the extra plants (ones floating) are gone then i can start worrying about making it look "balanced".. so thats just a warning lol

Enjoy
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/100_3462.jpg
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/100_3470.jpg
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/100_3473.jpg
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/100_3468.jpg


Though the scape isnt done, i did manage to finish the placement of all the equipment (okay most forgot to hide the co2 line). Got the Eheim running on the left side and the fluval on the right. Both give the tank nice flow so theres no dead spots. Also got to love the stealth heater, truly is stealthy :P

[NeonFlux]

Killar tank yuri nice!

[WaywardSon]

Wow BK - what a fantastic job! I've got two words for you - show tank! Can't wait to see more pics!

[derekp]

very nice. your starting to give me a run for my money :)

[derekp]

btw, whats the stocklist on the tank?

[DrNo]

Dude.... AWESOME! True art.

[WaywardSon]

derekp - where are the pics of your tank? I thought I would give you a run for your money also (lol)!!

[Bk718]

lol thanks guys, but i really shouldnt have uploaded such a messy tank. I cant seem to get rid of the floating plants!!!! grrrr

The current stocklist is
3 cherry barbs
3 harley rasboras
5 rummynose tetras
7-9 micro rasboras (seriously dont know how many)
1 bolivian ram -male
1 clown pleco
1 lonely and very adventurous dwarf cray

I plan to get atleast 5 more rummies, 3 more rasboras, 2-3 cherry barbs, 2 female bolivian rams and maybe a bn pleco.

I would get some oto cats but in my last tank they died towards the end since there was no algae around :(

[WaywardSon]

BK - the "messy" part is the cool part - that's what makes the finished product that much more spectacular - keep us posted!

[WaywardSon]

BTW - please take a look at my glosso experiment (http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=162214&page=3) when you get a chance and give me your input. I've got to get to work on that foreground - it's driving me nuts.

[foofooree]

Looks great! ps, if worst comes to worst, you can get rid of those floating plants to me, free of charge ;)

[Bk718]

lol foo for sure. Most of the floaters are already spoken for im just waiting to ship them out tomorrow.. But if theres anything left over ill send you a pm :p

[ProAquatics]

what a transformation!

[myswtsins]

Looks fantastic! I really love the island of wood. Can't wait to see more!

BTW I have 6 M cherry barbs that will need a new home soon if you are interested.

[Bk718]

Thanks Pro

myswtsins, 6 males? lol idk will see, so far i only have 1 female with 2 males and they are harassing the crap out of her.

[myswtsins]

Yea, that might be a bit much on that little girl! :)

[DAVIDFBT]

lol thanks guys, but i really shouldnt have uploaded such a messy tank. I cant seem to get rid of the floating plants!!!! grrrr

The current stocklist is
3 cherry barbs
3 harley rasboras
5 rummynose tetras
7-9 micro rasboras (seriously dont know how many)
1 bolivian ram -male
1 clown pleco
1 lonely and very adventurous dwarf cray

I plan to get atleast 5 more rummies, 3 more rasboras, 2-3 cherry barbs, 2 female bolivian rams and maybe a bn pleco.

I would get some oto cats but in my last tank they died towards the end since there was no algae around :(

What happened to your other female Ram?

Truly a nice tank there, the messy part is the best part because it gives you a blank canvas to work on. But instead of paint, an Aquarist uses plants, wood, rocks, and fish.

[Bk718]

What happened to your other female Ram?

Truly a nice tank there, the messy part is the best part because it gives you a blank canvas to work on. But instead of paint, an Aquarist uses plants, wood, rocks, and fish.

The other female died for unknown reasons. I came home turned on the light and saw her swimming in circles.. Was a real shame since i had her for so long and went through so much trying to get her to eat. Ill have to checkout a lfs tomorrow maybe ill start my new stock with the rams.

though yes the mess gives me something to work with, then again i felt like selling almost all the plants and just starting off from scratch. That way I can do everything a plant at a time and place things in their right locations.

ehh who knows. I should be getting rid of the last of the extra plants on monday. Still nagging my friend about sending me a co2 regulator, so who knows might have pressurized soon.

[WaywardSon]

Still nagging my friend about sending me a co2 regulator, so who knows might have pressurized soon.

Those red plants of mine got you going don't they BK? (lol) :dance2::grinno:

[derekp]

Great job BK. Its really coming along.

[Bk718]

Thanks cfsinc, shh about the red plants lol just have to rub them in my face?? lol

Thanks derek. Coming along but not really. Im thinking once the lighting is back to normal and co2 is at a constant level then i will probably do a big rescape once again.

Well just to kill time i took a video of the tank..
Kick back and enjoy the tank to some peaceful music.
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/th_38b3ae8c.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/?action=view&current=38b3ae8c.pbr)

[BubbleBack_Ek9_]

Nice tank i like your ram looks so coool....

[WaywardSon]

Sweet video - it's amazing to me how quickly it came together. I know it was a lot of work on your end, but boy does it look great!

[derekp]

The best results always come from the most work...well done.

[foofooree]

NICE!

[WaywardSon]

The best results always come from the most work

Amen!

[Bk718]

Thanks guys but if best results come from the most work then, i really need to do more work to have the results considered "best"

School should be starting soon and I really want to get done with the lighting/co2 before than. Am pretty close to a co2 regulator, only thing need now is a co2 tank. Anyone want to donate lol j/k

[Arturo]

Very nice tank. Great job.

[Bk718]

Thanks Arturo

[WaywardSon]

About time for some more pics, isn't it? (LOL)

[Redneck Woman]

:iagree:

[Bk718]

About time for some more pics, isn't it? (LOL)
:shakehead:

lol my tank is not like yours remember, no pres. co2 so nothing changed. The video was the latest/newest update.

[WaywardSon]

The sad part is that I have a Milwaukee Regulator just setting on the shelf waiting for it's new tank! I'm sure that doesn't make you feel a great deal better (lol)!!

[Bk718]

The sad part is that I have a Milwaukee Regulator just setting on the shelf waiting for it's new tank! I'm sure that doesn't make you feel a great deal better (lol)!!
ehh i should have one coming to me later this week hopefully (if not ill just come over there and "borrow" the milwaukee. But then still need a tank grrr

once pressurized is here and lighting is in check then ITS ON lol

[WaywardSon]

It's already ON - you are just a couple of steps behind!

I am currently assembling all the necessary components for the "Megatank 150" (LOL)!

[Bk718]

It's already ON - you are just a couple of steps behind!

I am currently assembling all the necessary components for the "Megatank 150" (LOL)!
a couple of HUGE steps behind. I mean you saw what an extra bubble of co2 can do lol

Can anyone spare me a bubble???

[WaywardSon]

Knowledge wise my "start value" is drastically lower than yours - an extra bubble or two here or there for me will only partially level the playing field!

[Slappy*McFish]

That's a great looking tank...enjoyed the video. Looks 'alive.' That's something a photo can never capture. :)

[Kashta]

Beautiful tank, Yuriy. Had to catch up in this thread and scrolled back to see your video. Kept watching the rummies swimming back and forth, back and forth. What a delight.

[myswtsins]

The video really makes the tank "feel" even more beautiful. I really enjoyed it!

Aww, someone give Yuriy a bubble! :) Can't wait to see this tank explode when you get the Co2 going. Although I think it looks great as it is.

[Bk718]

Knowledge wise my "start value" is drastically lower than yours - an extra bubble or two here or there for me will only partially level the playing field!
well with this forum your knowledge will increase in just a few weeks. Alot of information here and help. Probably the best forum on the interweb :grinyes:


That's a great looking tank...enjoyed the video. Looks 'alive.' That's something a photo can never capture. :)

Beautiful tank, Yuriy. Had to catch up in this thread and scrolled back to see your video. Kept watching the rummies swimming back and forth, back and forth. What a delight.

Thanks Slappy and Susan, I agree that the video brings so much more to the table about the tank than a simple photo (where in my case all fish hide during the full tank shot)

The rummies are really enjoying the tank swimming back and forth more than any other schooling fish in there. I wonder how it will look when i up the school slightly. One thing i cannot wait for is to finally finish redoing the room that the tank is in, so i can sit back and actually enjoy the tank more.


The video really makes the tank "feel" even more beautiful. I really enjoyed it!

Aww, someone give Yuriy a bubble! :) Can't wait to see this tank explode when you get the Co2 going. Although I think it looks great as it is.
would you let me borrow a bubble?? and how about making me a canopy lol we got the similar stands so matching it would be easy as 1-2-3 :grinyes:

[DrNo]

:bowing:

[myswtsins]

would you let me borrow a bubble?? and how about making me a canopy lol we got the similar stands so matching it would be easy as 1-2-3 :grinyes:

If I had any bubbles I would definitely let you borrow one, unfortunately I have no bubbles. :( (that so reminds me of Finding Nemo)

Your tank is even a nice simple rectangle not a stupid bowfront! (I do love the bowfront though) Lets see how my canopy turns out then you can decide if you still want me to build you one. :jaw-dropping:

[Bk718]

If I had any bubbles I would definitely let you borrow one, unfortunately I have no bubbles. :( (that so reminds me of Finding Nemo)

Your tank is even a nice simple rectangle not a stupid bowfront! (I do love the bowfront though) Lets see how my canopy turns out then you can decide if you still want me to build you one. :jaw-dropping:

lol watch you forget some tiny detail and will nail the front so it wont open :grinno:

[WaywardSon]

I'm almost tempted to send you the regulator just to see some more pics / video - keep in mind, almost!!

[WaywardSon]

Watched your video again - boy, that's sweet! I can't wait to get my "next" tank. It gives so much room for the fish (if I don't fill it to the brim with plants - lol).

[Bk718]

I'm almost tempted to send you the regulator just to see some more pics / video - keep in mind, almost!!

lol well you are "almost" teasing me, "almost"!!

my friend should be back from vacation either tomorrow or thursday so will see what will happen with the regulator. For now might give a few welding places a call to find out how would they go about me "renting" a tank or perhaps swapping a acetylene tank for a co2 tank.

How long would a 5g tank last on a 55g going at 1-2bps??

[noodles62]

Wow! Just watched your video. I seriously could not take my eyes off that ram! What a character! Love the way he attacks the bubbles! Does not seem to care much for the angels either; what a charmer! Tank looks gorgeous! When I grow up I want a tank that looks like that! LOL

[noodles62]

BK- I was read back a few pages and noted that you had trouble w/ the female ram not eating - my male is still giving me trouble - filters the sand, but never where the food is! I thought he was doing better, but after watching him closer the past couple days, I am not so sure......How did you finally get her to eat?!

[Snowy]

Nice job !! That is one GREAT looking tank.. This is definatly an inspiration for me..

[Bk718]

Thanks snowy :grinyes:


BK- I was read back a few pages and noted that you had trouble w/ the female ram not eating - my male is still giving me trouble - filters the sand, but never where the food is! I thought he was doing better, but after watching him closer the past couple days, I am not so sure......How did you finally get her to eat?!
First thanks noodles for the comments.
My first 2 female rams died from not eating right. I tried everything with them and they still went and did their own thing..
With this 3rd one, at first she was scared so i placed her in a tank of her own. I tried dry food and she didnt seem to have interest in that. Then i tried frozen bloodworms and at first it just fell to the ground, but it did get her attention. After a few minutes she went at it. So i kept feeding her bloodworms for a good week or so. Then she saw that other fish are eating dry food so i guess she decided to take a stab at it and what do you know she liked it. Had her for a few months but then came home turned on the light and see her swimming in circles. Not sure what happened but sucks to lose another ram female (which actually ate)
I suggest feeding yours some food that gets his attention, that even if it walls to the ground he still will see it and go for it. Try bloodworms (frozen first) and if he doesnt go for that give live ones a try. Take one using tweezers and move it next to the ram. See if he goes for it. If he goes for the first he will go for the future ones.

[noodles62]

Thanks BK. I have tried FBW and he watches the female eat but does not eat himself. She will eat anything! I will see if I can get live ones and give them a try......

[Bk718]

Thanks BK. I have tried FBW and he watches the female eat but does not eat himself. She will eat anything! I will see if I can get live ones and give them a try......

try wiggling the FBW by his face lol
The picky fish always are curious about small things that move.
Careful with the lives ones, making sure they dont get in your substrate

[Ajordan]

I don't know whats more impressive, the outcome of the tank or the fact that a "journal" style thread actually went from beginning to end!

Nice work!

[Bk718]

I don't know whats more impressive, the outcome of the tank or the fact that a "journal" style thread actually went from beginning to end!

Nice work!

im still at the beginning though :lipssealedsmilie:
Throwing plants and wood together is the easy part, making it work takes time.
Thanks for the support

[WaywardSon]

More pics - regulator or not - we want more pics!

[Bk718]

More pics - regulator or not - we want more pics!
so demanding lol
ill see what i can do. Perhaps another video.

[WaywardSon]

Now we're talking!

[WaywardSon]

No new posts in a while from BK - I bet some new pics are coming soon!

[Bk718]

lol no working on a video but after killing 30-40min on it, it doesnt seem to flow right. GRRRRRRR

[DrNo]

lol no working on a video but after killing 30-40min on it, it doesnt seem to flow right. GRRRRRRR

Just double-dose Excel... that seems to fix everything.

[Bk718]

haha im out of excel. Next in line is a hammer to the monitor..

[WaywardSon]

haha im out of excel. Next in line is a hammer to the monitor..

Now we're talking ... something I can relate to (lol). Take your time, maybe the regulator will come in the meantime.

[WaywardSon]

Just double-dose Excel... that seems to fix everything.

LMAO!

[Bk718]

Now we're talking ... something I can relate to (lol). Take your time, maybe the regulator will come in the meantime.

lol you better make sure i dont find out where you live. Because the day i do... you will be short one regulator.

[WaywardSon]

You'll have to rip it off the Megatank 150 by then!! That may be a little more of a chore than you first imagined (lol)!!

[Bk718]

No new posts in a while from BK - I bet some new pics are coming soon!
lol here the last video until i finally get some upgrades done.
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/55g%20tank/th_5878149d.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/55g%20tank/?action=view&current=5878149d.pbr)

[DrNo]

Dude.... SHWEEEEEET!

[WaywardSon]

Very nice BK! What's that wild looking fish you have with the strip across his face (middle of the video)?

[ibr3ak]

That's his bolivo ram, maaad video editing on a slow compoooter.

[noodles62]

:omg: Beautiful and so full of life.....I am so envious!
I would just sit and watch it all day and night. I guess I better not ever get a tank like that! I would do nothing else around the house! LOL

[Que]

Very nice.

Q

[WaywardSon]

So ... pressurized Co2 tomorrow? At least the reg?

[Bk718]

Thanks everyone for the kind words

cfs: lol nope
Tell you the truth i dont even know when. I will have to make a few phone calls

[WaywardSon]

That's cool ... the tank looks awesome right now!

[Bk718]

That's cool ... the tank looks awesome right now!
Thanks but dont even dare ask for more photos lol ill just direct you to previous shots :grinno:

I think tomorrow i might as well upgrade the lighting. Though i will be going the cheap route for a few weeks. Instead of getting the 55w 6700-10000K bulbs i will get a 5500K from homedepot for about $6. Grow plants out with that for now, then the future trim will perhaps pay for the new, better bulbs.

[WaywardSon]

Very good plan.

If I didn't think I was going to pull the trigger on the 150 soon, I would send you over the regulator to "borrow" until you get yours!

[Bk718]

Very good plan.

If I didn't think I was going to pull the trigger on the 150 soon, I would send you over the regulator to "borrow" until you get yours!

thanks but as i spoke to you before, the reg isnt the only thing on the list, also need a tank. Boy i cant wait to get past these 3 things (lighting, reg, tank) after that its show time.

[WaywardSon]

That's scary ... it looks like it looks now without those things.

I need to read some more threads ... quickly (lol)!

[Bk718]

That's scary ... it looks like it looks now without those things.
I need to read some more threads ... quickly (lol)!

Well it doesnt look "that" great. ive noticed some of the plants melting slightly. Guessing tomorrow i will also recharge the co2 making sure to keep atleast some level of it in the tank.

[WaywardSon]

Perfect - then it will be time for another movie (lol).

Stupid question, but is that your Co2 tube coming down to what looks like the front of the tank?

[Bk718]

Perfect - then it will be time for another movie (lol).

Stupid question, but is that your Co2 tube coming down to what looks like the front of the tank?

yup, i placed it in the front since the flow from the filter was in that direction, so the bubbles got pushed down and stayed down longer.. Later ill just place it back under the canister intake so get maximum diffusion

[WaywardSon]

I knew there was a reason - thanks!

[Bk718]

Just a small update..

Today my brother called me telling me that he was in the city and was going to stop by a fish store. So i asked him to see if they have some Siamese algae eaters.. Well he didnt bother looking there and once he was back in brooklyn he did me a "favor" and stopped by another lfs and for some unknown reason got me 2 algae eaters.. though they were the darn chinese algae eaters lol
So off i went to either return or exchange them for another fish.. When there the bolivian rams caught my eye. So guess who has a new fish for the tank lol
Traded them both in for a nice size bolivian, hope that shes a female. So far the finnage points to female.
Photo (still acclimating)
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/100_3738.jpg


Then stopped by homedepot and got the Phillips 55w 5500K PC bulb. Only $7. Once plugged in, my tank finally has more light!! (before had 1-55w 1-18w) Though I guess the K rating does come off a bit yellowish. Will take photos later.

[WaywardSon]

Nice looking Ram - silly question - but they are big time community fish (play well with others and all that)?

Eager to see the pics with more light!

[rich311k]

Pretty fish! Good luck with it.

[noodles62]

What a cute little ram. I hope it turns out to be a female for you...I adore my Bolivians!

[Bk718]

Thanks everyone.
Sure hope this one is a female. Already went though about 3 of them and no great success. So far this one is already eating so thats a plus.


Nice looking Ram - silly question - but they are big time community fish (play well with others and all that)?

Eager to see the pics with more light!

they are pretty good community fish. Though they are cichlids they are considered "dwarf" cichlids which are more peaceful. I had never had my ram attack a tetra or cory or even a tiny molly fry. They keep to themselves. I mean occasionally it may shoot an angelfish away from some food, but its nothing damaging.

Here are some more shots:
Older bolivian male checking out the new addition
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/100_3744.jpg

My older Bolivian male, gained alot of color once i placed this new fish in the tank
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/100_3742.jpg

The rams together
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/100_3749.jpg

And a video will be up soon (still uploading)

[DrNo]

Awesome addition! The male looks "Happy". Looking forward to the to video/full tank shots to show the yellow actinic.

[Bk718]

Heres a crappy video showing how the male is trying impress the new ram.
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/th_9179a1d5.jpg (http://s262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/?action=view&current=9179a1d5.pbr)

[noodles62]

I love it! Looks like you got a pair IMO. Love the tunes too!

[WaywardSon]

Very nice BK - great addition!

[Hurley]

Nice looking fish! Its amazing how much fatter the male ram is compared to the female. Hopefully she will fatten up quickly, especially since she's eating already.

[DarkDH]

Lookin good.

Any other new additions planned?

[Bk718]

Thanks for the kind words everyone!


Lookin good.

Any other new additions planned?
Thanks, other additions would probably be another female ram if i can find one and will up the current schools of tetras/rasboras

[derekp]

My rams did that as well when I introduced a female to my male. Good luck with yours. Definitely get some more harleys. I put 9 in my rainbow tank and I love em.

[Bk718]

Thanks Derek, so far the male is slightly bullying her. Guess he just wants to let her know who the ram of the tank is lol
I give it a few more days and then she will be all over him following each other left and right. Also hope that i can finally experience some breeding from the rams. This current one that I got looks already mature compared to the tiny ones i used to buy before. So hopefully after stuffing her with blood worms she can start producing some eggs.

[Rbishop]

Great shots and nice video!

[myswtsins]

I think the tank looks great right now can't wait to see you "improve" on it!

Yay for an eating female ram!! :woot: Good luck with her and hopefully some little ones.

[Redneck Woman]

Beautiful fish Bk!

[Bk718]

Havent really updated in a while since not much was going on with the tank. Sold many plants in the effort to get some extra $ for a few tank upgrades. One of them being a pressurized CO2 setup WOOT WOOT. I got the co2 tank already, a 20 pounder. Also ordered a Milwaukee Regulator earlier in the week and it shouldve been here yesterday/today but nothing.. guess ill hope for it to come on monday.
So the tank still stands as is. Still not happy with how it is at the moment but hopefully after the co2 is setup the plants will blow up in growth so i can once again sell and fund a few other upgrades and finally building a new look for the tank.
Heres a recent photo of the tank..
http://s4.tinypic.com/34g3d6w.jpg

[bluerat]

awww come do mine ....... its really good bk

[Rbishop]

Looking pretty good, I think!

[Bk718]

Thanks Blue and Bob

Blue you paying for the ticket?? :P

[bluerat]

i think i have 50p towards it......

[Bk718]

thats roughly $90 would have to do better than that :silly:

[bluerat]

ummmm i think you best recalculate that.............

[Slappy*McFish]

Looks killer, BK.

[WaywardSon]

Looking good - with the ominous Co2 tank in the foreground ... very nice!!

[jaysen]

wow that looks great! what can you do to improve it? you will need to get a new tank and start fresh when u get bored since that tank just looks flawless.

[Bk718]

ummmm i think you best recalculate that.............
still adds up to $90 lol


Looks killer, BK.
Thanks slappy :headbang2:

Looking good - with the ominous Co2 tank in the foreground ... very nice!!
Thanks Coy, and yes the co2 tank is just standing there waiting for a reg to go on it. Monday will be like Christmas, supposed to get so many packages.


wow that looks great! what can you do to improve it? you will need to get a new tank and start fresh when u get bored since that tank just looks flawless.
lol Thanks Jay. There are alot of things to improve in the tank. Though right not i guess it does look "good" in the photo, in person theres just gaps in things. Plants need to be moved so they can get bushy and still get all the light they need. Plus i had a melt off in some anubias so the center island looks uneven. I am slowly collecting a new plant list and trying to build the new look in my head. Once again the hardest part will be the positioning of the wood.
And as far as starting fresh with a new tank lol i dont know about that. Im still trying to sell of my 29g. The 10g i might swap for a 2.5-5g so i can keep it under the stand as a QT tank and if anything keep some shrimp/snails in there to reproduce.

[DarkDH]

If only I had a wallet to support something like this....

[Bk718]

The majority of the setup was funded by plant sales. So start small and eventually you can build/upgrade in no time.

[Hungriee]

Havent really updated in a while since not much was going on with the tank. Sold many plants in the effort to get some extra $ for a few tank upgrades. One of them being a pressurized CO2 setup WOOT WOOT. I got the co2 tank already, a 20 pounder. Also ordered a Milwaukee Regulator earlier in the week and it shouldve been here yesterday/today but nothing.. guess ill hope for it to come on monday.
So the tank still stands as is. Still not happy with how it is at the moment but hopefully after the co2 is setup the plants will blow up in growth so i can once again sell and fund a few other upgrades and finally building a new look for the tank.
Heres a recent photo of the tank..
http://s4.tinypic.com/34g3d6w.jpg


Nice tank BK, any more closeup pics?

[Bk718]

Yup got closeups give me a min to upload.
Here are a few teasers i posted in the AC planted tank group (http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/group.php?groupid=7) earlier today
http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=29&pictureid=2537

http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/picture.php?albumid=29&pictureid=2536

[Bk718]

And here are the rest:

Golden Angel is growing fast!
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/55g%20tank/100_4227.jpg?t=1221366853

Female Bolivian Ram sleeping on ET lawn (right after i turned on the lights)
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/55g%20tank/100_4231.jpg?t=1221366855

The lone Cherry Shrimp that actually survived from being a tiny baby to now being an adult female
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/55g%20tank/100_4241.jpg?t=1221366865

Left side closeup (mix of hygros/L. Aromatica and others)
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/55g%20tank/100_4235.jpg?t=1221366861

The Messy Anubias/Needle leaf fern Island
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/55g%20tank/100_4237.jpg?t=1221366863

Thanks Ricky (Inka4040) for this beauty
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/55g%20tank/100_4247.jpg?t=1221366867

And finally Anubias barteri x nana sprouting a soon to be flower
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/55g%20tank/100_4248.jpg?t=1221366868

[Que]

You need cherries?

Q

[Bk718]

You need cherries?

Q

will see what happens in the next few weeks. If i manage to get a 2.5-5g tank then why not attempt to keep them again.
Its either trying to raise a few cherries or raising dwarf crays (only got one male lol)

[DAVIDFBT]

Hooray for updates! That's a lot of Anubias.

[myswtsins]

Looks great! We should make a trade, I'll do your canopy & you come do my aquascapes! :) I love how the rams are face to face directly front and center of the tank in the full tank shot.
This tank is going to explode when you get the CO2 running!




Thanks Ricky (Inka4040) for this beauty
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/55g%20tank/100_4247.jpg?t=1221366867

And finally Anubias barteri x nana sprouting a soon to be flower
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/55g%20tank/100_4248.jpg?t=1221366868

What is the plant from Inka4040?

I have never gotten a flower on my Anubias nana! :silly: How long would you say it took for you to get a flower?

[Bk718]

Looks great! We should make a trade, I'll do your canopy & you come do my aquascapes! :) I love how the rams are face to face directly front and center of the tank in the full tank shot.
This tank is going to explode when you get the CO2 running!

What is the plant from Inka4040?

I have never gotten a flower on my Anubias nana! :silly: How long would you say it took for you to get a flower?

lol lets go!! just make sure my canopy fits the tank right away and wont need any adjustments later on :silly:
The rams are sweet, when i just introduced the female the male used to pick on her slightly and they used to lip lock all the time but now they work as a group. One follows the other one all the time. Now i just wish for them to spawn and that will be swell.

I was supposed to get the regulator for the co2 last friday/saturday. Well today is monday and still no reg. Really hope it comes tomorrow. 2 bad i will be in school and wont be able to set it up till evening.

The plant that Inka4040 gave me is called Crinum calamistratum. Its a very beautiful plant and is VERY long. Im still wondering how i will use it when i rearange the tank.

About the anubias. Last time i had a flower from this one was about 2-3 months back. Im surprised this one is sending out another one. I would love for my other bunch of anubias to give some flowers but guess they need more time to grow in.

My next upgrade which will be in a long while will be the lighting. Where did you get your GE bulb??

[myswtsins]

You WILL get your CO2 running! :)

I have had my anubias since January but it went through some rough times at the advice of my LFS. It is very happy now so hopfully I will get a flower within a couple months.

I got my GE 9325k bulb at DFS. http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=15381
If I decide not to use it (elsewhere) I would be willing to sell it to you for cheaper. I might use it on my new 29g though.

[Bk718]

wow $30 for it? I saw them on this other site for $14 or was it $17.. Just thought you had a closer source.. hmm would be interesting to see if dr foster will price match with this other site.. I have to order some prime and some flourish soon.

Im still curious on what causes the anubias to flower. Seems so random.

[myswtsins]

Yeah it is like $14-15 on other sites but they don't say that it is a GE bulb :huh:. I was in a rush to add that to my order after I had ordered and never even looked at the price, I wonder if they would price match? :)

[NeonFlux]

Nice update BK.

[DrNo]

Great shots BK! Hope the reg arrives soon :D

[Bk718]

So far i looked at the drfoster site and no where it states that they will.. Ill try either calling them or using their live service tomorrow and see if they would price match it.

Thanks guys for the support!!

[Bk718]

woot woot we are going pressurized!!!

[rich311k]

Congrats, one of the best things I ever did.

[WaywardSon]

Okay - here we go! Let's get some updated pics. You've had that Milwaukee since this afternoon - can't you see any change yet (lol)??

[Bk718]

lol thanks thanks but its not all that great yet..

So I just came home from school all happy about the co2 setup.. Got the box out and started checking out the nice regulator.. then i noticed that the needle in the right gauge is not in the same place as the needle in the left. Not sure whats wrong with it.. Anyone can help?
http://s4.tinypic.com/28bbcs9.jpg

[foofooree]

Tank looks great. My gauge on the right did that too, but after a day or two, and tinkering around with the knobs, it went back to were it was supposed to...

[Bk718]

Lets hope it does..
I still went ahead and sent an email to where i got it from.. Lets see what they say. Dont make sense. Its new.
Someone on aim just told me its a blown gauge.. but blown without even having it connected to the tank yet?

Heres the thread i made for the issue.. http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1619680#post1619680

[Bk718]

Just a small update
Tried to hook up the pressurized co2 as best as i can even with a faulty low pressure gauge. Well had it running now for a few days and results are noticable in some plants.. (got 2 more days to enjoy the regulator and then have to send it back to be replaced..)

Heres a photo of the tank 9-13/-08
http://s4.tinypic.com/34g3d6w.jpg

And heres a shot of it today.
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/Bk828/100_4379-1.jpg

Shot was taken right after a serious tank cleaning. Had to clean the glass since it was covered big time with GSA. Took out all the anubias and ferns and gravel vac'ed the island since the clown pleco sure can poop.. Placed it all back and thats what i have so far..

[WaywardSon]

Wow - looks great BK. Sweet looking tank!!

A lot of work that tank cleaning (lol)!

Co2 is certainly noticeable - even after only a few days!!