Damsels etc.

[ForumPete58]

I ended up losing 3 damsels that I had in my tank. I have moved into a 30 gallon tank. I have purchased testing kits for specific gravity, pH, ammonia, nitrates, and nitrites. I have checked the specific gravity and it is 1.021, my pH is 8.2, but my ammonia is a little high still. I am curious how I can lower my ammonia and keep my two new damsels alive at the same time. If this is not possible I am willing to take my new damsels back to the store so they do not die. Although the people at the store told me that they thought they would be alright. I had a question about specific gravity. After I do a water change, how do I know how much salt to add. I need to know now much salt raises the specific gravity a certain amount. I hope that makes sense.
Thanks,
Matt

 

[Ray Pollett]

It does not sound like your tank has cycled fully. I would take the damsels back to the store. There are other ways to cycle tanks without fish that are more humane.

SG should IMO (In My Opinion) be 1.024 to 1.026. You mix the water and salt in another safe container with a powerhead running. You measure the SG there after an hour or two than put the water into the tank when the SG is correct. Usually about 1/2 cup of salt mix per gallon will get you close , then adjust.

I personally change 10-20% of the tanks water every other week.

Ray

 

[Kurt]

I would let your salt content rise on its own from evaporation. And add the the top up water of correct salt content. This way it is done slowly. I also find that when I make new salt water the specific gravity tester shows higher after the water warms up to tank temperature.