How many SAEs for a 55?

[tfish]

I am working on eliminating a brush algea problem in my 55. Currently, I have increased my DIY CO2 so that my pH has dropped to 6.6 (my kH is 5). I have begun adding Flourish, KNO3, K2SO4, and KH2PO4. I am doing 50% water changes every 3-4 days and will do so for another week. I will then go back to just one 50% water change a week. I have been trying to get some Siamage Algea Eaters to help me combat the problem. I also wanted to get them simply because everything that I have read has said that they are great algea eaters and I don't have many other fish to combat algea. All I have in my 55 right now is two ottos with bulging bellies! :D (No kidding -- it looks like their little tummies are going to explode! They have grown so much since I got them! I wish the other ones were as hardy. I originally bought 10. Many died the first week. :( )

Anyway, I have searched high and low for these SAEs at local LFSs. Well it just so happens that another fishy lover donated some of his SAEs at one of my local LFSs. The manager called me and put them on hold for me. He said that they are ~3 1/2" long and cost $4.99. I've looked on the net and I have not seen any for sale that big! My questions now is, since they are that big, how many would be good for my 55?

Thanks for any tips!

[djlen]

Yes, they do get that big. Two of them will do it. Make sure they're true SAE's.
Watch that pH.....you're pushing over 37ppm. 6.8 for a kH 5 would be safer.
Len

[tfish]

Yes, I figured 2 would be good. Thanks!

I am also working on the CO2. I knew it was a bit too high. Quick ? -- What happens when the ppm is too high?

Thanks!

[djlen]

That high a concentration can stress fish. You might see them breathing heavily at the top. Extremely high concentrations can kill fish. I've talked with people who keep their CO2 in the mid 30's with no "obvious" adverse reactions, but the general consensus is 25-30 ppm is the optimum level for plants and fish.
Len

[nvision]

if you can spare more time, try to look for smaller ones. i've had several saes which grew over 3" long, and starting from that size they tend to get more lazy on eating algae. personally, i think shrimps and ottos make a good combo, but for saes, they work pretty well but needs a large enough tank to grow in.