"For mature aquariums only"

[irishspy]

Hi all,

In several cases, when I've been researching fish, I've seen the caution "for mature aquariums only." Most recently in the case of the Dwarf Chain Loach (Yasuhikotakia sidthimunki). My question is, what does that mean? Most often, I've seen the answer given in terms of tank age (six months to a year), but it can't just be a matter of time.

Is it a water chemistry stability issue?

 

[Lupin]

Water conditions are stable for a long time with no extreme changes detected, that's it. 3-4 months usually.

 

[dvd_wightman]

Water conditions are stable for a long time with no extreme changes detected, that's it. 3-4 months usually.

Agreed. Generally, if there have been no problems for 3-4 months after the aquarium has been setup, then you can add these fish.

 

[rsanz]

Yeah, it's a matter of the tank's bacterial colony being establish, and water chemistry stability. It usually takes a couple of months for the tank to be well-established.

 

[H3D]

Water conditions are stable for a long time with no extreme changes detected, that's it. 3-4 months usually.

I would say more like 6-12 months.

 

[BoredAgain]

I would say more like 6-12 months.

I'd say this as well, but I've also heard 1 to 2 years. On this subject, you'll likely get a different answer from each person.

 

[Canuck]

IME, I'd agree with H3D.

 

[H3D]

IME, I'd agree with H3D.

Thanks Canuck you the man!

 

[Star_Rider]

If I had to place a time on it.I would lean towards H3D's time..but NTS can last for over 1 year..
remember that some subtrates, new tanks etc may leach material out for some time..usually within 1 year it has leached out ..but if you do not do regular maintenance it may take longer as the water changes are how you remove these items.(remember some places recommend water changes every two weeks)
a mature tank is a tank where the conditions have been able to stabilize over time.

 

[PEMfish]

H3D has it summed up in time.
Bacterial, water chemistry, leaching materials, are all things that will even out and become stable, or non-problematic. But theres always owner habit too look out for. You must keep these things stable, and find the butter zone for that fish before getting it.