View Full Version : Please help me. Any advice is welcome.
Hello everyone. I need some help.
Back in May, my mother suggested that I get an aquarium to help me with my anxiety. She used to have five, 30 gallon aquariums when she was a teenager. Although I was reluctant, I agreed. We bought a 10 gallon aquarium -with an under gravel filter, heater, gravel, 6 artificial plants, a lighthouse and sunken ship, testing set, stand, etc.- off of Craigslist.
Of course, I knew nothing about aquariums, so I just set everything up and added water. About 24 hours later, I put the Chlorine and Chloramine remover in the water as well as Ammo Lock 2 -we have ammonia in our tap water-, and a bacteria starter.
I went to the pet store and bought a book on freshwater aquariums, but it had so many different ideas in it, I found myself lost. I did learn a few things from the book, such as Cycling the tank and New Tank Syndrome. I went back to PetSmart the next day, and proceeded to see what fish would do best for Cycling -Huge mistake on my part-. I got two Red-Eyed Tetras, and went home.
After a week of having stable water conditions, I went back and bought an Albino Catfish. All and all, I thought I was doing good, since everything was stable.
Then, a week later I bought another fish -I don't remember what kind-, and brought him home. I also brought home a pack of weekend feeders, because the PetSmart worker recommended them -Also a big mistake-. I put the fish in the tank, and all seemed well...until the next day. His nose was cover in this white mold like substance. At first I thought it was just the weekend feeder particles covering his nose, but it turned out it wasn't. I think it was Cotton Mouth. That evening I had to flush him.
After that, I left the weekend feeder in, not thinking much about it. I didn't feed my fish for about a week. I didn't realize what I was doing. All the sudden, about 12 days later, my Ammonia was high. I took the feeder out, and put some Ammo Lock 2 in.
My ammonia stayed. It didn't increase nor decrease.
Then one of my tetras got sick. His fins started to fray, and I assumed he had Fin Rot. I wasn't sure how to treat it, so I left it alone. Then about a week or two later, my catfish's fins started to fray, as well. He died within the next 48 hours. My sick tetra stayed alive for another week or two, and then he died as well.
Around the time he died, the Ammonia decreased and the Nitrites started to climb. A reddish colored algae started to show up.
All the while, the other tetra has remained fine. He was the largest of the two tetras. At times he has seemed stressed -which I understand, what with me using him to cycle my tank-, but none of the diseases have affected him. A employee at PetSmart said that he might have bullied the other fish, though I only saw him chase the other tetra a few times.
Because my Nitrites were up, I decided to do my first water change. I got a siphon -something I should have got way earlier in this adventure-, a large pot for the water I was removing, and got a huge jug of conditioned water. I did a 50% water change -By accident. I siphoned too much.-, and while my one remaining fish seemed upset for the next 24 hours, he looked better the next day.
I decided a few days ago to get my water tested at PetSmart. -The lady was a real jerk.- She tested my water, and told me that I had made a huge mistake by doing the water change. According to her, I had made my tank start the Cycling process all over again. She also said that it would take 64 weeks -That's over a year!- to Cycle my tank. As well, her readings for Ammonia and Nitrites were different than mine. Mine were 0 Ammonia and 0 Nitrite -the Nitrites were between .25 and .5 before the water change-, while she said both my Ammonia and Nitrites were up. I'm not sure if anything she said was true.
Also, some stats on the tank. The temperature usually remains between 74 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The pH is usually between 7.2 and 7.6 . My tests say the Nitrites are at 0. The Ammonia is at 0. The Chlorine and Chloramine are at 0. The Water Hardness is far too high, at around 250ppm.
My testing kit looks to be rather old, though it seems to work fine. I’m not sure.
-My one remaining tetra seems stressed at the moment. I'm assuming that this is because he's all alone?-
So here I am, really confused. I hate seeing animals stressed and sickly, and I want to do whatever I can to make up for the mistakes I've made so far. Any advice or guidance is welcome and appreciated.
KarlTh
07-12-2009, 6:11 AM
The woman at the shop is wrong; the water doesn't cycle; the filter and tank surfaces do, so changing water makes no difference at all and indeed is essential to keep the fish alive. All you can do now is keep the water changes up to keep ammonia and nitrite as low as possible and wait.
The hardness test kit result means your water is very soft. Don't worry about that for now. I don't understand why the tank water is so much harder and more alkaline than the tap water (250ppm is not "too high" - what sort of hardness is that?); I think you may have something leaching into the water, although it might just be the weekend feeder blocks. Having said that, you don't want the water too soft whilst cycling as the associated low pH does slow the process down.
The woman at the shop is wrong; the water doesn't cycle; the filter and tank surfaces do, so changing water makes no difference at all and indeed is essential to keep the fish alive. All you can do now is keep the water changes up to keep ammonia and nitrite as low as possible and wait.
The hardness test kit result means your water is very soft. Don't worry about that for now. I don't understand why the tank water is so much harder and more alkaline than the tap water (250ppm is not "too high" - what sort of hardness is that?); I think you may have something leaching into the water, although it might just be the weekend feeder blocks. Having said that, you don't want the water too soft whilst cycling as the associated low pH does slow the process down.
How much, and how often should I change the water?
Opps, I just realized I made a mistake. A few weeks ago, I had to add more water to my aquarium. I used filtered water. The results I gave you for my changing water was the results of the filtered water. Sorry.
My tap water that I use for water changes before adding a Water Conditioner is: 7.4 pH, 0 Nitrites, .25-.50ppm Chlorine, .5-1ppm for both the Chloramine and Ammonia, and 50ppm Water Hardness. I always put Water Conditioner in my changing water.
Also, does it really take over a year to Cycle?
:welcome: to AC, Zbbal!
I am glad you found the right site to go with your queries. Don't worry about your situation. You will pull through this dilemma in no time as you begin to digest more information here.:thumbsup: It is amazing how a "simple" hobby becomes a maze with obstacles in your way but in the end, this is all part of the learning experiences.
Of course, I knew nothing about aquariums, so I just set everything up and added water. About 24 hours later, I put the Chlorine and Chloramine remover in the water as well as Ammo Lock 2 -we have ammonia in our tap water-, and a bacteria starter.
The ammolock was unnecessary. The dechlorinator that binds both chlorine and chloramine however proves very useful as both substances can indeed harm and kill your fish. The brand often recommended for use is Seachem Prime but if yours covers both substances, it should be fine.
After a week of having stable water conditions, I went back and bought an Albino Catfish. All and all, I thought I was doing good, since everything was stable.
Please post a picture of this fish. Most albino catfish may not be suitable for a 10g tank. Some albino catfish turn out to be a common pleco which can quickly outgrow a 10g tank. If this was a corydoras, it wouldn't be an issue.
Then, a week later I bought another fish -I don't remember what kind-, and brought him home. I also brought home a pack of weekend feeders, because the PetSmart worker recommended them -Also a big mistake-. I put the fish in the tank, and all seemed well...until the next day. His nose was cover in this white mold like substance. At first I thought it was just the weekend feeder particles covering his nose, but it turned out it wasn't. I think it was Cotton Mouth. That evening I had to flush him.
The weekend feeders have plaster of Paris added. Plaster of Paris does influence the pH and hardness levels. Karlth correctly pointed this issue. Could you please post a picture of this fish? Your case involved bacterial infection which can be treated with Maracyn and Maracyn 2 combined.
Please do not flush the fish! It is a very inhumane method as it involves the fish having to go through the process of toxic wastes that will only slowly kill it which is rather agonizing for the fish to go through. Never euthanize a fish because it has a health problem. Not all health problems would mean the end of the fish. If in doubt with a particular health problem, please do not hesitate to ask us and we will help you as much as possible to save your fish.
After that, I left the weekend feeder in, not thinking much about it. I didn't feed my fish for about a week. I didn't realize what I was doing. All the sudden, about 12 days later, my Ammonia was high. I took the feeder out, and put some Ammo Lock 2 in.
My ammonia stayed. It didn't increase nor decrease.
Water changes are a much better route. Ditch the ammolock and forget the chemicals completely that bind ammonia, nitrite and nitrate. Those will not effectively help in your scenario.
Then one of my tetras got sick. His fins started to fray, and I assumed he had Fin Rot. I wasn't sure how to treat it, so I left it alone. Then about a week or two later, my catfish's fins started to fray, as well. He died within the next 48 hours. My sick tetra stayed alive for another week or two, and then he died as well.
This is correct. The fish had indeed suffered finrot which is caused by poor water conditions as is happening in your situation. Only water changes can rectify it. If it persists after a few days, treat with Maracyn and Maracyn 2 combined. All antibotics however will interfere with your beneficial bacteria responsible for the nitrogen cycle so at this stage, your water parameters must be monitored closely and water changes be done accordingly.
Around the time he died, the Ammonia decreased and the Nitrites started to climb. A reddish colored algae started to show up.
The algae is diatoms and happens all the time in new tank setup. At this point, the nitrogen cycle is in the middle of the whole process.
All the while, the other tetra has remained fine. He was the largest of the two tetras. At times he has seemed stressed -which I understand, what with me using him to cycle my tank-, but none of the diseases have affected him. A employee at PetSmart said that he might have bullied the other fish, though I only saw him chase the other tetra a few times.
Bullying can be an issue if your two tetras have been pecking each other however this is not really enough to kill your other tetra. The water quality would be the primary culprit of its death.
I decided a few days ago to get my water tested at PetSmart. -The lady was a real jerk.- She tested my water, and told me that I had made a huge mistake by doing the water change. According to her, I had made my tank start the Cycling process all over again. She also said that it would take 64 weeks -That's over a year!- to Cycle my tank. As well, her readings for Ammonia and Nitrites were different than mine. Mine were 0 Ammonia and 0 Nitrite -the Nitrites were between .25 and .5 before the water change-, while she said both my Ammonia and Nitrites were up. I'm not sure if anything she said was true.
She was spewing gibberish about the nitrogen cycle taking that long as Karlth mentioned. What test kit did you both use?
Also, some stats on the tank. The temperature usually remains between 74 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The pH is usually between 7.2 and 7.6 . My tests say the Nitrites are at 0. The Ammonia is at 0. The Chlorine and Chloramine are at 0. The Water Hardness is far too high, at around 250ppm.
The chlorine and chloramine are not needed if you are treating your new water with a water conditioner.
My testing kit looks to be rather old, though it seems to work fine. I’m not sure.
What brand is the test kit? Is this test strip set or liquid? When was it manufactured?
-My one remaining tetra seems stressed at the moment. I'm assuming that this is because he's all alone?-
So here I am, really confused. I hate seeing animals stressed and sickly, and I want to do whatever I can to make up for the mistakes I've made so far. Any advice or guidance is welcome and appreciated.
Your tetra will need new companions eventually but we need to address the water quality issue first.
How much, and how often should I change the water?
That would depend on how far your ammonia and nitrite can go back to zero to keep the fish alive as both substances are extremely toxic to the fish. Doing 50% daily would help though but you need to retest after doing a water change to ensure both substances are zero. Why not ask a friend or your store for their established filter media? This option can allow your tank to quickly cycle thus saving you and your fish the undue stress.
Also, does it really take over a year to Cycle?
No, it doesn't. Depending on the options you tried, it usually takes a time interval of simply one day (if you ask for established filter media) to several weeks (for fishless cycling and fish cycling).
:welcome: to AC, Zbbal!
I am glad you found the right site to go with your queries. Don't worry about your situation. You will pull through this dilemma in no time as you begin to digest more information here.:thumbsup: It is amazing how a "simple" hobby becomes a maze with obstacles in your way but in the end, this is all part of the learning experiences.
The ammolock was unnecessary. The dechlorinator that binds both chlorine and chloramine however proves very useful as both substances can indeed harm and kill your fish. The brand often recommended for use is Seachem Prime but if yours covers both substances, it should be fine.
Please post a picture of this fish. Most albino catfish may not be suitable for a 10g tank. Some albino catfish turn out to be a common pleco which can quickly outgrow a 10g tank. If this was a corydoras, it wouldn't be an issue.
The weekend feeders have plaster of Paris added. Plaster of Paris does influence the pH and hardness levels. Karlth correctly pointed this issue. Could you please post a picture of this fish? Your case involved bacterial infection which can be treated with Maracyn and Maracyn 2 combined.
Please do not flush the fish! It is a very inhumane method as it involves the fish having to go through the process of toxic wastes that will only slowly kill it which is rather agonizing for the fish to go through. Never euthanize a fish because it has a health problem. Not all health problems would mean the end of the fish. If in doubt with a particular health problem, please do not hesitate to ask us and we will help you as much as possible to save your fish.
Water changes are a much better route. Ditch the ammolock and forget the chemicals completely that bind ammonia, nitrite and nitrate. Those will not effectively help in your scenario.
This is correct. The fish had indeed suffered finrot which is caused by poor water conditions as is happening in your situation. Only water changes can rectify it. If it persists after a few days, treat with Maracyn and Maracyn 2 combined. All antibotics however will interfere with your beneficial bacteria responsible for the nitrogen cycle so at this stage, your water parameters must be monitored closely and water changes be done accordingly.
The algae is diatoms and happens all the time in new tank setup. At this point, the nitrogen cycle is in the middle of the whole process.
Bullying can be an issue if your two tetras have been pecking each other however this is not really enough to kill your other tetra. The water quality would be the primary culprit of its death.
She was spewing gibberish about the nitrogen cycle taking that long as Karlth mentioned. What test kit did you both use?
The chlorine and chloramine are not needed if you are treating your new water with a water conditioner.
What brand is the test kit? Is this test strip set or liquid? When was it manufactured?
Your tetra will need new companions eventually but we need to address the water quality issue first.
-Thank you for welcoming me to the community. Though at first I was apprehensive about getting an aquarium, I hope to make this a full time hobby. Even with all the bad things that have happened, I think that once everything is under control, it will be enjoyable.
-So I should throw out the Ammo Lock?
-I looked around in hopes of finding a picture of a similar fish, and it turns out that it was actually a Cory. Sorry. I keep forgetting the names of the fish.
-At the time when the fish was dying, I couldn't go to the store. My mom often gets sick, so it would have been days before I could get him treatment. Also, he was barely breathing, and had himself caught sideways in the largest plant. If you could tell me what treatments to have on hand, next time I'm at the store, I'll pick everything up.
-How often should I do a water change? I was think 25% to 50% a week?
-I use a Freshwater Mater Test Kit, by Aquarium Pharmaceuticals, Inc. The lady at PetSmart used strips.
-My testing kit doesn't have a date, but it has a trademark on the back of the box that says 1993. It can't be that old, can it? If it is, I'll go to the store ASAP and get a new one.
Thanks for your help.
That would depend on how far your ammonia and nitrite can go back to zero to keep the fish alive as both substances are extremely toxic to the fish. Doing 50% daily would help though but you need to retest after doing a water change to ensure both substances are zero. Why not ask a friend or your store for their established filter media? This option can allow your tank to quickly cycle thus saving you and your fish the undue stress.
No, it doesn't. Depending on the options you tried, it usually takes a time interval of simply one day (if you ask for established filter media) to several weeks (for fishless cycling and fish cycling).
I've had my aquarium since May, is it normal to take this long? I even used a bacteria starter.
Also, I don't have any friends who also have aquariums. Well, I have one friend, but they have saltwater aquariums. And the only stores I know of in my area are retailers. They don't usually have anything in there tanks, other than maybe one plant. I doubt they'd let me take it.
-So I should throw out the Ammo Lock?
Yes, I would do that. Water changes are better than the use of chemicals that will not effectively do their job.
-I looked around in hopes of finding a picture of a similar fish, and it turns out that it was actually a Cory. Sorry. I keep forgetting the names of the fish.
Ahhh....That makes this one less issue to go.:clap:
-At the time when the fish was dying, I couldn't go to the store. My mom often gets sick, so it would have been days before I could get him treatment. Also, he was barely breathing, and had himself caught sideways in the largest plant. If you could tell me what treatments to have on hand, next time I'm at the store, I'll pick everything up.
Maracyn and Maracyn 2 (for bacterial infections), Melafix (not needed for every injury case where water changes can quickly solve it), table salt (for ich cases) and, praziquantel and fenbendazole (for flukes and internal parasites).
-How often should I do a water change? I was think 25% to 50% a week?
I forgot to ask what your nitrate is. Could you please test this one? If your nitrate is detected with ammonia and nitrite at zero, your tank may have done cycling already. If not, then your test kit may be misleading as only a heavily planted setup or 100% water change can put nitrate to zero.
-I use a Freshwater Mater Test Kit, by Aquarium Pharmaceuticals, Inc. The lady at PetSmart used strips.
You're a step ahead of her.:grinyes:
-My testing kit doesn't have a date, but it has a trademark on the back of the box that says 1993. It can't be that old, can it? If it is, I'll go to the store ASAP and get a new one.
I'd look at the top cover of the box and look for the last four digits printed.
Yes, I would do that. Water changes are better than the use of chemicals that will not effectively do their job.
Ahhh....That makes this one less issue to go.:clap:
Maracyn and Maracyn 2 (for bacterial infections), Melafix (not needed for every injury case where water changes can quickly solve it), table salt (for ich cases) and, praziquantel and fenbendazole (for flukes and internal parasites).
I forgot to ask what your nitrate is. Could you please test this one? If your nitrate is detected with ammonia and nitrite at zero, your tank may have done cycling already. If not, then your test kit may be misleading as only a heavily planted setup or 100% water change can put nitrate to zero.
You're a step ahead of her.:grinyes:
I'd look at the top cover of the box and look for the last four digits printed.
-I'll pick all that up when I go to the store. And table salt? As in, table salt that humans put on food?
-Yeah, when I saw her dip the test strips in the water, I couldn't help but think, "How's that going to solve anything?"
-Well, obviously my test kit is so old that it doesn't have a Nitrates test. Now I'm sure I need a new test kit. But the only numbers I see on the box are "Product No. 34" and "2112-04-0893."
Once again, thank you so much for your help.
oscartank
07-12-2009, 8:36 AM
Pet smart staff are all jerks, normally school leavers with an attitude and enjoying a power trip over inexperienced people needeing help. Basic psycology, people feeling threatened so in turn putting other people down to there level. They are given very little training and are genrally in the job for 6months so chances are u wont run into her again anyway.
I would find some established filter media as yr top priority, smaller local fish shops should be more help full, genrally run by experienced fish keeping nuts like ourselves. WELCOME TO THE AC
-I'll pick all that up when I go to the store. And table salt? As in, table salt that humans put on food?
Yes, that's the one. Table salt is fine for use contrary to most people's beliefs. This has been debated but a few of us have used it with no issues and can save you a lot of money than the aquarium salt sold by stores which is just pure sodium chloride repackaged in a fancy box.
-Well, obviously my test kit is so old that it doesn't have a Nitrates test. Now I'm sure I need a new test kit. But the only numbers I see on the box are "Product No. 34" and "2112-04-0893."
Ahh...That's really old! Makes a good vintage collection of old equipments.:grinyes:
thesixis
07-12-2009, 8:57 AM
Hi and welcome to AC.
I tell all new fishkeepers, the best thing that they can do is find a small mom and pop store and stick with them. Stay out of the big box stores.
Good luck.
Pet smart staff are all jerks, normally school leavers with an attitude and enjoying a power trip over inexperienced people needeing help. Basic psycology, people feeling threatened so in turn putting other people down to there level. They are given very little training and are genrally in the job for 6months so chances are u wont run into her again anyway.
I would find some established filter media as yr top priority, smaller local fish shops should be more help full, genrally run by experienced fish keeping nuts like ourselves. WELCOME TO THE AC
Thank you for welcoming me. Sorry I didn't reply sooner. I was looking in my phone book for a shop. Despite what I thought, there are four privately owned shoppes in the area.
Yes, that's the one. Table salt is fine for use contrary to most people's beliefs. This has been debated but a few of us have used it with no issues and can save you a lot of money than the aquarium salt sold by stores which is just pure sodium chloride repackaged in a fancy box.
Ahh...That's really old! Makes a good vintage collection of old equipments.:grinyes:
-Well then, I'll have to buy some table salt.
-It's that old? Wow, I'm definitely buying a new testing kit. Should I buy a newer version of the kit I have now?
Hi and welcome to AC.
I tell all new fishkeepers, the best thing that they can do is find a small mom and pop store and stick with them. Stay out of the big box stores.
Good luck.
Thank you for wishing me luck!
I'm going to check all the local shoppes and see which I like best. Then I'll stick with the one I like. They're all within 40 minutes of my house, so once I get on that side of town, it shouldn't be a problem.
Yes, I'd get a new test kit that includes the nitrate.
Yes, I'd get a new test kit that includes the nitrate.
Well then, when my gets up this afternoon, I'll ask her to take me to the local shoppes. I'll pick one up, along with the other things you mentioned, while I'm out.
Thank you so much for all the help you've given me. Hopefully I can have everything settled down soon.
jenazen69
07-12-2009, 10:11 AM
Test kits are normally only good for 2 years. You need a new one. I hope one of the smaller mom and pop shops in your area is able to provide good informed advice to you. Even if they don't have a wide selection of fish, they may be willing to order in whatever you are looking for. The mom and pop shops that are really good will remember what kind of fish you keep, and will ask you what size tank, and what fish you currently have before making suggestions. I find it's best to go on fact finding missions, before buying. I go in with paper and pen, write down everything I have an interest in , ask questions from the people who work there, and then go home. I then take everything I had questions on and research them. I check the information the clerk gave me against my research, and make a decision based on a wider amount of knowledge. Sometimes the clerks know nothing about some of the fish, as they are something new or not carried on a regular basis. One thing you will want to do while your tank is cycling is decide what fish you want to keep as the fully stocked tank. Research those fish and there needs. The tetra, and corry you had both do much better in groups of 5 or more. The next thing to plan is in what order to add new fish once your tank has cycled. You will need to add just a few at a time in order to keep mini cycles to a minimum. Don't worry about all the things you may or may not have done wrong, we all learn from the mistakes. Now that you have found a source of information that is not concerned with selling you something you will find the advice is usually water changes, and routine maintenece. The only time the advice that you get will cost you anything is if you have an ilness that requires medication. I hope you enjoy the hobby once your tank is cycled.
StarStruck8
07-12-2009, 10:32 AM
Everyone else has given you good advice already, but I just wanted to say good luck and don't give up! This hobby will throw a few stumbling blocks your way every now and again, but it is very rewarding when everything is running well. :)
Zbbal
07-12-2009, 10:38 AM
Test kits are normally only good for 2 years. You need a new one. I hope one of the smaller mom and pop shops in your area is able to provide good informed advice to you. Even if they don't have a wide selection of fish, they may be willing to order in whatever you are looking for. The mom and pop shops that are really good will remember what kind of fish you keep, and will ask you what size tank, and what fish you currently have before making suggestions. I find it's best to go on fact finding missions, before buying. I go in with paper and pen, write down everything I have an interest in , ask questions from the people who work there, and then go home. I then take everything I had questions on and research them. I check the information the clerk gave me against my research, and make a decision based on a wider amount of knowledge. Sometimes the clerks know nothing about some of the fish, as they are something new or not carried on a regular basis. One thing you will want to do while your tank is cycling is decide what fish you want to keep as the fully stocked tank. Research those fish and there needs. The tetra, and corry you had both do much better in groups of 5 or more. The next thing to plan is in what order to add new fish once your tank has cycled. You will need to add just a few at a time in order to keep mini cycles to a minimum. Don't worry about all the things you may or may not have done wrong, we all learn from the mistakes. Now that you have found a source of information that is not concerned with selling you something you will find the advice is usually water changes, and routine maintenece. The only time the advice that you get will cost you anything is if you have an ilness that requires medication. I hope you enjoy the hobby once your tank is cycled.
Yeah, I don't plan to get any fish for a week or so. I want to research and make sure I'm making good decisions. I have a favorite locally owned pet store -they don't have much regarding fish, though.- It's time I find a well educated aquarist store to help me, too.
Zbbal
07-12-2009, 10:42 AM
Everyone else has given you good advice already, but I just wanted to say good luck and don't give up! This hobby will throw a few stumbling blocks your way every now and again, but it is very rewarding when everything is running well. :)
Thank you very much! Even with the difficulties I've had so far, I can see some of the rewards. My remaining Tetra, named Patootie is an interesting little guy. He's fascinating. Today I'm going to go to the store and get some peas. He seems kind of backed up, so I'm hoping that if I defrost a pea, peal it, and give him a fourth of it, he'll feel better.
Zbbal
07-12-2009, 10:51 AM
99249
99250
Here are two pictures of my aquarium. The second picture was supposed to be a picture of Patootie, but he got scared and swam away.
Shr3d
07-12-2009, 11:43 AM
Looks like a nice tank you've got there, good luck with it. I think pretty much everything that needs saying has been said, I'll just say go steady adding fish and research every one before you buy.
bushwhacker
07-12-2009, 6:33 PM
nice red eye tetra there... where is goose creek? i'm in westminster in the upstate... anytime i could help just holler
angyles
07-12-2009, 7:04 PM
I think you're on the right track now. Just remember that most of us have all had our first tank. Our massive Ich ourbreaks, our common pleco in a 10G (thank god yours is a cory ;-) and not even knowing a nitrogen cycle exists. You'll get through this with the good adivce you've recieved here, and you're local mom-and-pop-shop. Although I have to point out, even the advice you get from a M&P shop, I would run by here. This is the BEST resource for info, and I've gotten 'off' advice from M&P shops as well.
hang in there, remember water changes are your (and your fishes) friend, and once everything gets stable it's allllllll worth it...you'll see ;-)
clb2196
07-12-2009, 7:24 PM
Welcome. :) Glad you're getting everything straightened out!
Once you're at the point you're going to buy new fish, make sure you know how many they need in a group, as well as how big they get. I would say your best bet to to search for 10 gallon stocking threads on here, to get an idea, then start a new thread if you have questions.
And I'm sorry the big box store near you seems to not be helpful. for the record, they're NOT all like that. The one near me has great employees, and healthy fish. I've bought fish and inverts from them with no problem.
powerkit
07-12-2009, 7:57 PM
Wow, I missed this thread till now, but I just read thru it. So glad you found AC!!!! What a great tank and patootie is cute!!!! I'm glad yor initial troubles did not set you back, we all have speed bumps in this hobby, you seem very determined and that will pay off!!! Look forward to gettin to know you and see yor future progress!
roscoe70
07-12-2009, 8:32 PM
Man OH Man, you had yourself quite a first day here on AC. Glad things are going your way and you came to a good spot. Lots of knowledgeable people who are patient and willing to help. Welcome to this enjoyable, exasperating, simple, complex, frustrating and rewarding hobby. I've dabbled for nearly 40 years, raised and sold angels during college, bred and raised several types of discus, did salt, stopped it all for about 9 years and now back into it. And yes I still have used this resource to answer questions and probably will until I am here no longer. Best of luck and stay with these folks for assistance.
Man OH Man, you had yourself quite a first day here on AC. Glad things are going your way and you came to a good spot. Lots of knowledgeable people who are patient and willing to help. Welcome to this enjoyable, exasperating, simple, complex, frustrating and rewarding hobby. I've dabbled for nearly 40 years, raised and sold angels during college, bred and raised several types of discus, did salt, stopped it all for about 9 years and now back into it. And yes I still have used this resource to answer questions and probably will until I am here no longer. Best of luck and stay with these folks for assistance.
Thank you very much. And I plan on staying right here so I can get help with any questions I might have. Maybe one day I'll be helping someone who's new to having an aquarium.
nice red eye tetra there... where is goose creek? i'm in westminster in the upstate... anytime i could help just holler
Oh, Goose Creek is part of the Charleston–North Charleston–Summerville Metropolitan Statistical Area. Basically, I'm about 40 minutes away from (Downtown) Charleston and from the beach.
Welcome. :) Glad you're getting everything straightened out!
Once you're at the point you're going to buy new fish, make sure you know how many they need in a group, as well as how big they get. I would say your best bet to to search for 10 gallon stocking threads on here, to get an idea, then start a new thread if you have questions.
And I'm sorry the big box store near you seems to not be helpful. for the record, they're NOT all like that. The one near me has great employees, and healthy fish. I've bought fish and inverts from them with no problem.
Yeah, some of the employees at the retail store are nice. I usually don't have what I need when I come in and meet a nice employee, so I go home and come back a few days later only to have some really jerky employee be the one working that day.
I'm going to start a thread later today.
I think you're on the right track now. Just remember that most of us have all had our first tank. Our massive Ich ourbreaks, our common pleco in a 10G (thank god yours is a cory ;-) and not even knowing a nitrogen cycle exists. You'll get through this with the good adivce you've recieved here, and you're local mom-and-pop-shop. Although I have to point out, even the advice you get from a M&P shop, I would run by here. This is the BEST resource for info, and I've gotten 'off' advice from M&P shops as well.
hang in there, remember water changes are your (and your fishes) friend, and once everything gets stable it's allllllll worth it...you'll see ;-)
Yeah, I plan to run any information I get by everyone here.
Thanks for your encouragement.
Wow, I missed this thread till now, but I just read thru it. So glad you found AC!!!! What a great tank and patootie is cute!!!! I'm glad yor initial troubles did not set you back, we all have speed bumps in this hobby, you seem very determined and that will pay off!!! Look forward to gettin to know you and see yor future progress!
Thank you!
SMinNC
07-13-2009, 10:03 AM
:welcome:
Thank you for wishing me luck!
I'm going to check all the local shoppes and see which I like best. Then I'll stick with the one I like. They're all within 40 minutes of my house, so once I get on that side of town, it shouldn't be a problem.
Here are a couple of online stores you can check out, for buying some of your... stuff.
I use this one the most...
Drs Foster and Smith
http://www.drsfostersmith.com/fish-supplies/pr/c/3578
-
Big Al's
http://www.bigalsonline.com/
Zaffy
07-13-2009, 10:48 AM
Welcome to AC, Your tank looks really nice so far. keep us updated.
excuzzzeme
07-14-2009, 1:47 PM
You mentioned that the original reason for getting fish was to help with anxiety. I use them to help with seizures. It does help but not until you have it fully cycled and stable. The learning curve can be intimidating.
As Lupin so wisely pointed out, do not rely on chemicals unless it is an absolute must. Many people on here use chemicals and are forever chasing a problem. By staying away from them, you will have less items to figure out went wrong. The only additive should be a dechlorinator. Salt, when used in a responsible fashion, can help with many problems but is not a cure-all.
Slow down on and take your time with this.Your fish will thank you and you will thank yourself. By going slower it makes the whole experience easier and more enjoyable.
BTW - Welcome to AC
jlink17
07-14-2009, 2:09 PM
Welcome to AC! I have anxiety and sitting in front of my aquariums and watching the fish is really calming. You will love it and probably end up with lots more aquariums before you know it. I started with a 10 and now I have 2 10s, a 20, a 40 and a 55. LOL
Not sure if you have it or not but you may want to get a good heater for your aquarium if you are going to have tropicals and the tank water risks dropping below 72.
Hey Zbbal alot of good advice given here. I have had fish since I was bout 3yrs old im now 25 and still learning alot from others here granted I didnt know much bout keeping fish as I thought I did when I joined this site. I have hit several speed bumps on the way. Hopefully you wont hit as many as I have. I am doing pretty good now I own a 55gal and 2 20gal.
Aquariums are good for anxiety and as excuzzzeme stated also good for seizures when there established tanks. For me they help me with my anger issues. I tend to be overly aggressive mostly verbally but having my fish calm me down. Just stick with it and youll see it will pay off. Oh and Welcome to AquariaCentral.
mel_20_20
07-14-2009, 4:14 PM
Thank you very much. And I plan on staying right here so I can get help with any questions I might have. Maybe one day I'll be helping someone who's new to having an aquarium.
You will! I was where you are just a year ago. These folks here on AC have trained me to be a good *********** and I love helping others, just as everyone helped me.
I'm still learning, though, and I hope to be a real pro one day. You'll get there, too. Keep posting here, and read through threads on different topics. Learn from yours and others mistakes, and listen to the advice of these guys.
Your tank looks really nice, and Patootie is really a cutie!
You mentioned that the original reason for getting fish was to help with anxiety. I use them to help with seizures. It does help but not until you have it fully cycled and stable. The learning curve can be intimidating.
As Lupin so wisely pointed out, do not rely on chemicals unless it is an absolute must. Many people on here use chemicals and are forever chasing a problem. By staying away from them, you will have less items to figure out went wrong. The only additive should be a dechlorinator. Salt, when used in a responsible fashion, can help with many problems but is not a cure-all.
Slow down on and take your time with this.Your fish will thank you and you will thank yourself. By going slower it makes the whole experience easier and more enjoyable.
BTW - Welcome to AC
Yeah, cycling is rather intimidating.
I've thrown out all the unnecessary chemicals.
Indeed, I'm learning that. Slower is better.
Welcome to AC! I have anxiety and sitting in front of my aquariums and watching the fish is really calming. You will love it and probably end up with lots more aquariums before you know it. I started with a 10 and now I have 2 10s, a 20, a 40 and a 55. LOL
Not sure if you have it or not but you may want to get a good heater for your aquarium if you are going to have tropicals and the tank water risks dropping below 72.
I have a heater. My water usually stays between 75 and 77 degrees, and that's with my ceiling fan on high. If I turned the fan off, the water would easily go over 80. I plan to put the heater back in towards winter.
Thanks for welcoming me.
Hey Zbbal alot of good advice given here. I have had fish since I was bout 3yrs old im now 25 and still learning alot from others here granted I didnt know much bout keeping fish as I thought I did when I joined this site. I have hit several speed bumps on the way. Hopefully you wont hit as many as I have. I am doing pretty good now I own a 55gal and 2 20gal.
Aquariums are good for anxiety and as excuzzzeme stated also good for seizures when there established tanks. For me they help me with my anger issues. I tend to be overly aggressive mostly verbally but having my fish calm me down. Just stick with it and youll see it will pay off. Oh and Welcome to AquariaCentral.
Thank you. I have problems with anger myself, so I'm glad to hear that having fish helps with that too.
You will! I was where you are just a year ago. These folks here on AC have trained me to be a good *********** and I love helping others, just as everyone helped me.
I'm still learning, though, and I hope to be a real pro one day. You'll get there, too. Keep posting here, and read through threads on different topics. Learn from yours and others mistakes, and listen to the advice of these guys.
Your tank looks really nice, and Patootie is really a cutie!
Thank you very much! Patootie is a little upset right now. I did another water change, and he still isn't used to the siphon in the water. He swims away when I put it in, and then when I stop for a second he comes over to investigate.
BettaFishMommy
07-14-2009, 5:23 PM
read through this thread and as others have said there is lots to learn about the hobby, but you are definitely on the right track and i wish you and your finkids all the best! Welcome home to AC!
Oh Lord. I hope someone sees this.
I did a 40% water change earlier today. I'm not sure what's wrong, but Patootie seems rather frazzled.
Before I siphoned, I filled up the jug with water and conditioned. I let it sit while I siphoned the water. After I was done I began to gently pour the new water in, only to realize it felt kind of warm. I went to the bathroom and tried for some colder water, but with it being so hot even the cold water was warm. So I went ahead and put the warm water in. It was 4 degrees hotter, bringing my water from 76 degrees to 80 degrees. I turned my fan on the highest it could go so it would bring the temp down to normal levels. It's now at around 76 degrees again. -I realize that I probably should have left it at 80.-
Also, since he seems off, I checked the water. There seems to be a trace amount of either ammonia or Chloramine in the water. If it's ammonia, I don't know what to do. The ammonia is from my tap water. If it's Chloramine, I don't know why it's there. I added water conditioner.
A few minutes ago I add some more water conditioner. If it's Chloramine, it should be gone now.
jamesstill84
07-14-2009, 6:12 PM
And the only stores I know of in my area are retailers. They don't usually have anything in there tanks, other than maybe one plant. I doubt they'd let me take it.
My father just moved to Monks Corner, so we were there a couple of weeks ago. We saw 2 pet stores in North Charleston, but didn't stop at either of them. They might have some of the things you're needing. I didn't get the names or anything, sorry.
My father just moved to Monks Corner, so we were there a couple of weeks ago. We saw 2 pet stores in North Charleston, but didn't stop at either of them. They might have some of the things you're needing. I didn't get the names or anything, sorry.
Oh, thank you! I found a few in the phone book myself.
angyles
07-14-2009, 6:29 PM
I'm not sure what water conditioner you're using, but if you have ammonia in your tap water you should be using Seachem prime. It's also a lot more ecinomical overall cause you use 1/5 the amount. But it will nuetralize the ammonia so it's harmless to the fish.
As far as the temp goes, lets just hope it's okay. At hotter temps, fish are always a lot more active and 'speedy' because their metobolisms speed up. They seem anxious. Just remember that when you make changes to things like temp, try to make it gradual.
duyisalilaznboi
07-16-2009, 2:41 PM
yaa I agree:thm: prime really is economical, only 3-4 drops per gallon =D
A lot of people have recommended Prime.
I went to one of the oldest local shoppes in my area -They were around when my mom was a teenager.- It was amazing in there. Huge tanks, both saltwater and freshwater, with really healthy looking fish. -I did see some frogs that looked a little off, but considering I don't know much about them, I can't really say anything.- The staff was friendly, and when I told them they didn't have the API Freshwater Master Test Kit, they said they would call me when one came in.
Now, down to what I was going to say. I asked the employee for a really good water conditioner. He took me to where they were, and showed me three. Prime -he said it was really good-, some random one he didn't seem too excited about, and the newer cheaper conditioner called AquaLife Complete Water Conditioner. He said it did more for the water and recommended getting it. I bought it -It was $5.- and left.
I'm not going to open it or use it until I hear some feed back on it. I really don't want to mess up my water. Has anyone used it?
mel_20_20
07-16-2009, 7:55 PM
I don't know anything about it, but I'd go with Prime, especially if you have ammonia in the tap water. Prime will be a lifesaver.
You need to be very careful when doing water changes to make the replacement water the same as the tank water. A difference of 2 degrees one way or the other is a shock to them and causes stress which can weaken their immune system.
I don't know how serious the effect is when you add waterr that's too warm, but I know that colder water can shock and kill them.
WalMart or any pet store should have the little glass bulb thermometer that has a rubber suction cup holder. You can leave it in your tank all the time, get a reading of the temp in the tank right before each water change, then remove it to use while you are running tap water to get it to the same temperature. (I actually have two so I don't have to move it back and forth)
I run tap water into a tupperware container and adjust the flow for more or less hot water... as the water is flowing into and overflowing the bowl, I keep checking the temp in the container with the thermometer.... once it is stable and the water is flowing from the tap at a stable temperature then I fill up a bucket and put in some Prime. (the thermometer moves slowly so you want to give it time to make sure it has reached the accurate temperature)
Here's the thing, though. You're right that the tap water is warm right now. Mine is 82 degrees right out of the tap. I keep my tanks, normally, at 78 degrees, so I get ice cubes and put in the bucket with the Prime, not the tank, and stir and keep reading the temp. Go slow with adding ice, because of the time lag with the thermometer. (I plan to get a digital for instantaneous readings eventually)
Adding ice to the bucket I can get the temp exactly the same temp as the tank.
I don't know anything about it, but I'd go with Prime, especially if you have ammonia in the tap water. Prime will be a lifesaver.
You need to be very careful when doing water changes to make the replacement water the same as the tank water. A difference of 2 degrees one way or the other is a shock to them and causes stress which can weaken their immune system.
I don't know how serious the effect is when you add waterr that's too warm, but I know that colder water can shock and kill them.
WalMart or any pet store should have the little glass bulb thermometer that has a rubber suction cup holder. You can leave it in your tank all the time, get a reading of the temp in the tank right before each water change, then remove it to use while you are running tap water to get it to the same temperature. (I actually have two so I don't have to move it back and forth)
I run tap water into a tupperware container and adjust the flow for more or less hot water... as the water is flowing into and overflowing the bowl, I keep checking the temp in the container with the thermometer.... once it is stable and the water is flowing from the tap at a stable temperature then I fill up a bucket and put in some Prime. (the thermometer moves slowly so you want to give it time to make sure it has reached the accurate temperature)
Here's the thing, though. You're right that the tap water is warm right now. Mine is 82 degrees right out of the tap. I keep my tanks, normally, at 78 degrees, so I get ice cubes and put in the bucket with the Prime, not the tank, and stir and keep reading the temp. Go slow with adding ice, because of the time lag with the thermometer. (I plan to get a digital for instantaneous readings eventually)
Adding ice to the bucket I can get the temp exactly the same temp as the tank.
Yeah, I won't be doing that again. He was very stressed afterward. He's better now though.
And thanks for the ice cube idea. I'll try that.
I'm going to return this water conditioner next week when I get my new testing kit. It says it "replaces slime coat; removes Chlorine, Ammonia and Chloramine; detoxifies Nitrite and heavy metals; adds essential electrolytes; boosts alkalinity." Sounds like it does a lot.
BettaFishMommy
07-16-2009, 9:15 PM
i've never heard of that brand of dechlorinator, but it sounds like it does the job. the one you bought probably cost more than Prime though, and the dosage is most likely a larger amount per gallon. If it's a good dechlorinator i would just use it (since you bought it already) and then when you run out and it's time to get more then get a bottle of Prime.
angyles
07-17-2009, 12:34 AM
pretty much all dechlorinators will do the things listed on the one you bought. Prime performs the additional function of detoxifying ammonia. The bigger benefit, though, is the cost. When you compare that you would have to buy 5 bottles of any other brand to get the same amount of water treated, you can see where you spend a lot more. Once you're keeping your new 46, this will be more of a factor :-)
mel_20_20
07-22-2009, 12:55 AM
Listen Zzbal, when I started I was totally lacking in any skills, as was everyone else here.
I made just about every mistake one can make, and struggled, labored, lost fish, and my marbles:nilly: (nearly), lol, and then found this site. Even then I had a lot of learning to do, and experience to gain. I had so much help from the folks here on AC.
We really want to help and want you to know that you are just like the rest of us. We all had a beginning and we all made mistakes, and that's how we learn isn't?
When we make mistakes, and we do because we're human, we learn not to make the same mistakes, and we learn how to prevent them by reading about other people's mistakes and experiences.
We can learn by doing some research on our own, but also by reading the threads here and taking advantage of the vast experience of the fish gurus here. Many of these folks have been doing this for years and years, and have fabulous tanks and fish. They know so much more than most of the people at the pet chain stores and even the local fish stores, and they have no agenda, nothing to sell, just the desire to help you.
You've come to the right place. We all mean well, though sometimes we may not say things as tactfully as we intend. I don't think anyone here means to be unkind. I think we're all here because we love this hobby and want to help others enjoy it, too.
Hang in there. Keep asking questions. Keep up the good work. :thm:You'll be among the ranks of fish gurus, too, one day. That's what I'm trying to do myself, lol, though I know I have a long way to go. We'll get there.:)
Listen Zzbal, when I started I was totally lacking in any skills, as was everyone else here.
I made just about every mistake one can make, and struggled, labored, lost fish, and my marbles:nilly: (nearly), lol, and then found this site. Even then I had a lot of learning to do, and experience to gain. I had so much help from the folks here on AC.
We really want to help and want you to know that you are just like the rest of us. We all had a beginning and we all made mistakes, and that's how we learn isn't?
When we make mistakes, and we do because we're human, we learn not to make the same mistakes, and we learn how to prevent them by reading about other people's mistakes and experiences.
We can learn by doing some research on our own, but also by reading the threads here and taking advantage of the vast experience of the fish gurus here. Many of these folks have been doing this for years and years, and have fabulous tanks and fish. They know so much more than most of the people at the pet chain stores and even the local fish stores, and they have no agenda, nothing to sell, just the desire to help you.
You've come to the right place. We all mean well, though sometimes we may not say things as tactfully as we intend. I don't think anyone here means to be unkind. I think we're all here because we love this hobby and want to help others enjoy it, too.
Hang in there. Keep asking questions. Keep up the good work. :thm:You'll be among the ranks of fish gurus, too, one day. That's what I'm trying to do myself, lol, though I know I have a long way to go. We'll get there.:)
Ah, thank you. You've been very kind.
And yes, this really is a learning experience.
Also, you were helping me with water changes. I just wanted to say that I think I got it. I got the temperature as close as possible on my last change by using crushed ice, and all seems well with the tank. Patootie seems a little stopped up, so I've been feeding him 1/8 of a pea a week. It hasn't seemed to do much, though. Maybe I bought the wrong type of peas? They are Sweet Peas, and the package says they have salt on them. I tried to get just straight up frozen peas, but I couldn't find them. Otherwise, I can't tell if something is wrong with him or not. Nothing physically seems wrong other than him being stopped up, my water is okay from what I can tell -still waiting for my LFS to get my new API Master Test Kit in-, and he's still eating fine -I'm feeding him only once a day because I'm afraid if I feed him more it might worsen whatever is making him stopped up.- What concerns me though, is that he hardly moves. He'll hover in one spot for hours, and only move if I get near the tank.
Once again, thank you. You've really encouraged me.
mgarrido
07-22-2009, 1:28 AM
Always remember go step by step, don't run and take your time... that's the key. I used Prime for years without problems, now i use a carbon bottle and i love it ;).
RDTigger
07-22-2009, 1:29 AM
Oh, thank you! I found a few in the phone book myself.
wal-mart carries some important things.. but keep their selection in mind. You won't find SeaChem's products in there... I use Prime, Nourish, Stability.
wal-mart deals in quantity, and while there is nothing wrong with business, I like to see more quality. that being said a cheap air pump and dirt cheap thermometer in your WChange bucket do wonders when dechlorinating and conditioning water to go in your tank. If anytime youare changing out a large % of your tank you will be affecting that same % of the ENTIRE tank... toxins and even the temp are factors as you saw..
i think there are certainly some options in N. Charleston around Northwoods Mall.
RDTigger
07-22-2009, 1:35 AM
Always remember go step by step, don't run and take your time... that's the key. I used Prime for years without problems, now i use a carbon bottle and i love it ;).
I include a nylon stocking full of carbon with my WC bucket too..:thm:
mel_20_20
07-22-2009, 1:39 AM
You are so welcome! I'm glad to help.
Look in the frozen food section and find english peas. Usually there will be smallish packages, maybe 12 oz or so. The frozen ones are better and need to have the skin off and be slightly mushy from the microwave.
You could also get some garlic, either the whole cloves and chop them yourself or the jars of minced garlic (I get that) that they usually have sitting on an end cap in the produce section near the onions and potatoes.
If you nuke an english pea and rub garlic on it, or put some garlic juice from the jar on it, it will be very tempting to your Patootie. Fish love garlic and it is very appetizing to them.
Ask someone at the grocery store for the frozen english peas. I know sometimes I'm searching for something and look right past it until someone points it out. I don't think the canned sallted pea you have tried will hurt him, but I think it's better not to have salted peas for him.
Keep up the good water change schedule. I know you can't test it confidently without your test kit, yet, but assume that his water needs to be changed very frequently.
Until his tank is cycled and has all the beneficial bacteria needed to handle harmful byproducts, and you have the liquid test kit to keep a watchful eye on the parameters, I would do water changes every day, at least 50%, as Lupin suggested.
Pristine water is of utmost importance to his health, especially since he seems to be a little off in his behaviour and this may indicate he's not feeling his best right now.
You are so welcome! I'm glad to help.
Look in the frozen food section and find english peas. Usually there will be smallish packages, maybe 12 oz or so. The frozen ones are better and need to have the skin off and be slightly mushy from the microwave.
You could also get some garlic, either the whole cloves and chop them yourself or the jars of minced garlic (I get that) that they usually have sitting on an end cap in the produce section near the onions and potatoes.
If you nuke an english pea and rub garlic on it, or put some garlic juice from the jar on it, it will be very tempting to your Patootie. Fish love garlic and it is very appetizing to them.
Ask someone at the grocery store for the frozen english peas. I know sometimes I'm searching for something and look right past it until someone points it out. I don't think the canned sallted pea you have tried will hurt him, but I think it's better not to have salted peas for him.
Keep up the good water change schedule. I know you can't test it confidently without your test kit, yet, but assume that his water needs to be changed very frequently.
Until his tank is cycled and has all the beneficial bacteria needed to handle harmful byproducts, and you have the liquid test kit to keep a watchful eye on the parameters, I would do water changes every day, at least 50%, as Lupin suggested.
Pristine water is of utmost importance to his health, especially since he seems to be a little off in his behaviour and this may indicate he's not feeling his best right now.
Ah, I will ask for English peas and get some garlic. The ones I had were frozen as well, but like you said, I think he needs ones that don't have salt. His belly looks a little bloated and -excuse me- his poo is a dark greenish black color, so I'm definitely going to Wal-Mart in the morning. -The joy of living half a mile from Wal-Mart.-
I'm a little scared of changing the water everyday. Patootie is always freaked out after the change. And it can't be the water, because I now know how to get the temperature the same and the water has been treated with the dechlorinator. Anyways, I will try me best to do it daily.
thesixis
07-22-2009, 7:45 AM
Hey Z
Keep up the good work!!!!
The best part of this great hobby is meeting new people. Just take your time, read, ask questions and HAVE FUN!!!:thm:
Hey Z
Keep up the good work!!!!
The best part of this great hobby is meeting new people. Just take your time, read, ask questions and HAVE FUN!!!:thm:
Ah, thank you.
corrieberry
07-24-2009, 6:54 PM
When you do your WC do you have the lights on and music playing etc? I don't know about music so much, but I've found everyone in my endlers tank get really jumpy when I do my WC and turning off all the lights and trying to be as quiet and unobtrusive as possible is one of the ways I keep them calm(er). In a small tank there are fewer places to hide - it probably doesn't help that you are feeling nervous that he is going to get anxious about it so you're possbly overcompensating, or thinking his behaviour is changing. Everyone does that - if you look over in the coldwater section you'll see tonnes of threads by me where I'm stressing about whether or not my fish have parasites etc. It'll take a while, but eventually you'll become so blase about WCs that you'll get it all done in ten minutes and forget that it just happened.
When you do your WC do you have the lights on and music playing etc? I don't know about music so much, but I've found everyone in my endlers tank get really jumpy when I do my WC and turning off all the lights and trying to be as quiet and unobtrusive as possible is one of the ways I keep them calm(er). In a small tank there are fewer places to hide - it probably doesn't help that you are feeling nervous that he is going to get anxious about it so you're possbly overcompensating, or thinking his behaviour is changing. Everyone does that - if you look over in the coldwater section you'll see tonnes of threads by me where I'm stressing about whether or not my fish have parasites etc. It'll take a while, but eventually you'll become so blase about WCs that you'll get it all done in ten minutes and forget that it just happened.
I don't play any music while doing the water changes, but I do have some lights on. I have to take the aquarium light off to get into the tank, but I have a lamp light I shine in the tank as well as my ceiling fan light. It isn't very bright, though.
And yeah, I'm quite jumpy about water changes. I'm doing 40% water changes a day on the tank, and it's hard to siphon everywhere and not empty the whole tank. I pinch the end of the hose so I can move it, but still, it sucks so fast.
He's still getting used to the siphon being in the tank every morning, but he's slowly adjusting.