Nitrate Issues

Sukai · 05-01-2007, 08:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BJP

Unplug the tank for a while. If you're properly stocked it shouldn't be a problem outside of letting bio media like wheels dry out which should be avoided. If you are overstocked mother natures going to catch you when you aren't prepared. I keep hydrogen peroxide (H2O2, water with an extra oxygen molecule) around for emergencies but try never to stock to a point I need it for basic survival.

They survived the first one so that should say something. Koi have different stocking rules than the "one inch rule" all that taken into consideration (I did all the math) I still have about 20 gallons "left" (in my 50 gallon tank) I turn the tank off to feed them. This allows them to eat more of the food then they would have otherwise. That also helps to keep is cleaner.

Sukai · 05-01-2007, 08:55 PM

What exactly do you use the hydrogen peroxide for in emergencies? Do you add a certain amount to the water?

BJP · 05-02-2007, 05:31 AM

I haven't had to since 1993 but basically if the fish are gasping at the surface and in need of an immediate oxygen source it can help. I also add it to my hot water tank once every month or so to kill off anaerobic bacteria with the oxygen addition instead of using bleach. It has some other uses in water treatment systems that I'm not as familiar with relating to oxydizing out iron I believe in some systems.