Overstocked? Under-cycled?

D

deborah0407

AC Members
Feb 7, 2007
9
0
0
57
Hi everyone-

I started a new tank about a month ago and I have already learned I did not cycle it long enough without fish. We let the 55g tank run for about 72 hours before stocking it.

We ran into a battle of ich and lost some fish but now we have two clown loaches (LFS said they are best in pairs), 5 tiger barbs, 2 platy, 7 mollies, 1 smart ghostshrimp, a dwarf froggie, and a glass catfish. Hub and I are arguing- I say we are overstocked for the future growth of our fish and he says we are just fine (he wants to add an algae eater and some fw clams).

Our water readings have remained stable-we test once a week and hub does a 10% water change weekly.

Are we on the right track? Any advice greatly appreciated!
http://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/aktion/action-smiley-066.gif
Debbie
 
Hi, I think your population is Ok if you increase your water changes to 20-25% weekly. What was the time frame in all these additions to the tank. You might have a little unbalance since your tank did not have a strong enough cycle.
(also, don't trust the LFS 100%, ask here when ou can ;) )
 
I incorrectly stated how long the tank has been running- it has been two months and in that time we have added approximately 3-4 fish at a time, spread out over the past two months.
 
deborah0407 said:
I incorrectly stated how long the tank has been running- it has been two months and in that time we have added approximately 3-4 fish at a time, spread out over the past two months.
Click to expand...

This is better than 1 month but that's alot of addition in a short time. I always do 2-3 fish / month in a new tank, but that's me... there is no exact law in fishkeeping;)
Start larger water changes and test your water.
Tells us your results.
 
Mgamer20o0 said:
what are your test readings and what kind of test are you using?

it takes more then putting water in the tank and letting it sit.
http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=84598
Click to expand...

I stupidly read the pamphlet that came with the tank and followed its recommendation of running the filter for 48 hours before adding fish. We put the water in, let the filter run in the first three days, and then added three fish and a couple of plants the first week...gradually adding more over the past two months.

To test the water we are using Tetra easy strips and our nitrate is safe (0-10ppm), nitrite is 0, hardness 100ppm, alkalinity in ideal (100ppm) and ph level is normal at 6.8 - we also test the ammonia using Quick Dip by Jungle and the level is ideal (0).
 
Thank you...I'll definitely increase the water changes and let you know how it goes!
 
I think you have room for additional fish, but stay away from the clams. If they die, they can ruin the tank and create a very bad stink.
 
your tank isnt overstocked, but you should reconsider some of your stock.

tiger barbs are much to boisterous for glass catfish. glass catfish are the most peacful fish there is, almost to peacful for their own good. all fo the fish in your tank will easily outcomete it for food. glass catfish also NEED to be kept in groups of at least 6, with more being much better. otherwise, they may begin to waste away in your tank, not only from not getting any food, but because they dont have any of the same species.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
AquariaCentral.com
Top Bottom