Controlling nitrates in fish only setup

[DLeung10]

Are 10 percent water changes every 2 weeks enough to
control nitrates in a "properly stocked" 38 gallon tank ?

Should nitrate removal resins be used ?

[gcvt]

It depends on what you have in the tank and how much you feed...among other things. Do you have a nitrate test kit? If so, what was the result of your most recent test? What kind of filtration are you using?

[DLeung10]

GCVT,

Setup will be new.....starting up a fish only setup using a 38 gallon tank.

Using 1-2 power filters I already have. Not looking to spend 100
dollars on a protein skimmer at this time as I will not be using
live rock.

Some people say 20 percent a month, some say 10 percent once a week, some say 20 percent every 2 weeks, etc, etc...

Looking to "properly stock" with 2 clowns and another 2 fish
that will get along with the clowns.


BTW, your reef tank looks awesome !

[gcvt]

Yep, 20%, 10%, 35%....everyone has their own opinion :) The only way to really know how often to do water changes is to test for nitrates. When they begin to rise, do a water change and test again. Pretty soon, you'll figure how often and how much water to change to keep your nitrates in check.

Thank you for the compliments on my tank :D

[ben72227]

if you're NOT going to use live rock, then I highly suggest a protein skimmer.

[DLeung10]

Would a used Prizm skimmer and a Aquaclear power filter be
enough for a properly stocked fish only 38 gallon tank (with dead rocks) ?

I might be able to find a used Prizm one for @40 dollars