LPS not much help

oogpister · 05-18-2008, 11:49 PM

We have recently received a tank (36"x18"x12") I believe it to be a 30breeder? Never had an aquarium before. It has a penguin 200 biowheel filter, and a heater and an airator. Today we bought 2 large bags of gravel, a few silk plants, and some decorations my son liked. I was told that after washing out the tank (vinegar and water?) we needed to add gravel, plants and decos. Set up filter, was told no need to heat water yet. I guess then we will cycle the tank. Was told to add beneficial bacteria (out of a bottle). So what is next? I know I have reading to do on cycling. Which post is the simplest one to understand? I have read about feeding the tank, seeding the tank... What do I need to test the water? Its obvious that my LPS is not knowledgable enough.Maybe someone could direct me to some previous posts? And then we'll talk fish....what kind, how many....oh, and I took in some of my tap water, they said the ph was very high (8 something) but that was all they told me. is there something else ? Really, step by step instructions would be best for me.

nyrmel · 05-19-2008, 01:34 AM

I am still fairly new here but have been searching like crazy I just brought my fist couple fish home to their tank yesterday and had one get sick. Everyone here is really helpful and informative. There is a section called articles in the upper left hand corner of I think every page on the site just under the logo that says articles. As I understand it there are many differing opinoins and theroies about the perfect way to cycle or do anything to a tank. but it does list several basic areas that give background and basic needs to take care of bussiness. (I think I have been sent there about 4 times this week my turn to pass the favor) but the cycling in there is a step by step what needs to happen and how to see if it is.
Other than That Let me be the First to warmly welcome you to this very wet and finny site and make sure you look up one of tommyguns posts and vote for it so everyone else can find us too. like I said I am new here too but everyone here is more than willing to hold your hand while you dive in, or dip you toes in daintily and squirm and squeal in delite at the refreshing atmosphere

Also everyone here will swear you need a full master water test kit (I am still learning to tell what the answers mean but if you have questions people in here seem to want #'s) Water quality is the best indicator of tank/fish health (I have read that I think in 9 out of 10 posts about someone asking for help with an issue) there are also several stationary posts that say getting help in the forums that list the things you will be asked when asking for help. just as a second spot to look. Happy Reading and make sure to keep everyone updated on how things go.... I like to talk fish too.

Jay · 05-19-2008, 06:57 AM

Welcome to the forum oogpister

Well said nyrmel !!

Another neglected tool on the site is the search feature, located to the far right of the articles link. Just type in a keyword and it will take you to posts or threads about that topic.

Regards,
Jay

oogpister · 05-19-2008, 11:41 AM

[quote=nyrmel;60313]I am still fairly new here but have been searching like crazy I just brought my fist couple fish home to their tank yesterday and had one get sick. Everyone here is really helpful and informative. There is a section called articles in the upper left hand corner of I think every page on the site just under the logo that says articles. As I understand it there are many differing opinoins and theroies about the perfect way to cycle or do anything to a tank. but it does list several basic areas that give background and basic needs to take care of bussiness. (I think I have been sent there about 4 times this week my turn to pass the favor) but the cycling in there is a step by step what needs to happen and how to see if it is.

YES! that was the direction that I needed. Thank-you very much! Off to get my test kit! Also found link to site that will help my son understand what we are doing and why. very excited. We are already discussing what type of fish we will keep in our NEXT aquarium...

nyrmel · 05-19-2008, 01:35 PM

Oh hadn't found that Link yet. I understand the Son Mine was Extremely put out when I would NOT buy fish the same day we bought the heater filter and such (I don't know alot but knew that much) was the link in articles I will have to check it out. But see I said people will pop in and help you I havent tried the search bar yet but that is the second time i have seen it mentioned and Jay realy know his stuff I like the info he gives back. Let me know if I can help you out further maybe we can be the parents with over eager boys group lol

Take care and let the good times roll

Judge · 05-19-2008, 07:51 PM

Welcome Oogpister to the best FTF there is. The info is reliable from very friendly people and the site here is easy to navigate. We have good articles and like Jay said, the search tool is wonderful. I use it almost daily just to learn about all kinds of stuff. We are glad you have decided to join us and if we can help please let us know.