no, leave the biowheel in there. it doesn't need to be messed with.
you don't have to replace the filter pads until they get clogged up, then you can rinse and swish them in old tank water and put them back in. you only need new ones when the old ones start to fall apart. it will save you some money.
No, and believe me, I am peering at them as if under a microscope! I'm trying not to freak out, but I really didn't think having an aquarium should be this hard! :rant2:
i used to have a higher then desirable pH in my tank. I tried altering the pH to exactly what my fish (in the wild) were used to. it destroyed my tank and most of my fish died. I haven't never done it again and my tanks have been in perfect condition since. just use the pH that your tap water is... a stable pH is MUCH MUCH more healthly then a wavering, dangerous pH.
I would continue doing small water changes everyday for the time being, (eventually, back to about 1/3 water change a week) maybe add a little aquarium salt (helps when fish are sick)... perhaps you have an illness of some sort like an internal parasite. thats tough to diagnosis especially when your fish are already hitting the dust.
either way, if all your fish end up dying, don't give up on the fish hobby... it can be a ********, takes practice, alot of reading and knowledge, and a little luck sometimes, but you'll get the hang of it again and its worth it!!! best of luck to you and your lil' guys.
