new here 1st tank YIPPEEE

nyrmel · 05-16-2008, 02:59 PM

Ok First this is my First tank that is mine, we had a tank when I was a kid some years ago well lets not date ourselves. I do have a wonderful koi/goldfish pond in the backyard that has been going strong for 7 years. However I want to be able to view fish year round from indoors and after the sun goes down. I have a 30 gallon tank that I had a few dozen hermit crabs in til a couple years ago. I have wanted to set up this tank for fresh water fish for about 2 years and now I think we are ready. Last week we cleaned up the tank bought gravel and the tetra whisper filter/heater and air pump all set for the larger tanks than the 30 I have. (never hurts to have bigger and better right

). My son and I set up the tank with gravel water some fun little action bubbles things (my son loved picking them out) We have had the filter and heater and water pump running since mon. some nice live plants arrived from dr's fosters and smith tank is looking pretty good test strip comes up as ideal in all 6 catagories it checked last night. Was a little cloudy when the plants went in Wed. night but was cyrstal clear by thursday afternoon. (I did read some other posts and replies asked for more info I hope I have the basic's covered)

Now for the questions:
at someones advice I stole a few cups of water and rocks from the pond filter to help "start"the tank
is there anything else I should be doing before I go pick out the new additions (like those that swim and have fins and such

)
I really want and love the look of tetra's neon and cardnial's for sure but what goes well with them? I saw some really cool looking guppies at Petco that are darling. And I feel like I should have some form of algae control but not sure what would work well? also any ideas for some other fish to consider or to strictly avoid I always thought snails looked cute too but am scared because of some posts I read. I would like to start stocking this weekend but would welcome any advice you can offer.
THANKS
Nyrmel

RJRofFL · 05-16-2008, 06:36 PM

Hi Nyrmel, and welcome aboard to this great forum of knowledgeable, friendly and caring folks. We're all just as excited as you are.
Rest assurred you will be given good advice.

Notice (in my signature) I have a tank similar in size, and the inhabitants are all healthy, happy and peacefully co-exist. I would surely suggest a similar assortment for you.

However, (please), before you introduce any fish, read the article on "cycling" the tank first. IMO a week sounds a bit too short for the "good" bacteria necessary to develop. Remember, you want to introduce your new finned friends to a safe and healthy enviorment.

Might want to invest in a liquid test kit (around $30) as strips generally are not that accurate and often dry out over time. The liquid kit will more than pay for itself in time.

Others, I'm sure, will offer you additional advice and tips.

Any future questions, just give a shout.

Meanwhile, good luck and keep up the excitement.

Bob

nyrmel · 05-16-2008, 06:59 PM

Thanks for a reply I know a week seems small but I am already showing an increase in the good N without seeing any of the bad or noticeable A (gonna shorten it since I cant spell with a darn and never could) I have been reading the posts in here for about 2 weeks and I do have a liquid kit that I used the first day and when I added the plants on wed. I am not sure but it seemed to get a jump on the good N after I added the pond rocks and water. I should also mention I guess that I have clear tap water that never contains Clorine or anything else nasty (tests cleaner than some bottled waters) LOVE Lake Tahoe although I did add a small amount to help releive any stress on the plants of the bottle fosters and smith sent I have not added any chemicals to the tank. I would prefer not to though I did ask at the store what things I should have on hand just in case. Please anyone everyone let me know what you think I like the group you have listed as far as the ones I can picture but can guppies and tetra's get along. I love the coloring and with the dark blue teal substate and purple walls I really think would be something to look at The tank is also set up in front of a full length mirror (where I had room) and it is currently reflectingall the plants. Ill post pics of my plants when I figure out how as well as finned freinds once they come home.