newbie

[angel]

This is my first foray into an aquarium in about 20 years.I have a 30 gallon tank, gravel substrate,all the proper accoutrements, I think.As I am reading all of these posts,I'm becoming more and more nervous.I have a heavily planted tank with about 10 fish.Everything seems to be going well,but I am concerned about nutrients.I don't know how and what to do with them.I test for nitrites, nitrates,K H, PH.What else am I supposed to do? Please don't make fun of me,I just want to do the right thing.
Angel

 

[GreenStuff]

Re: newbie

I think the best thing you can do, Angel, is read. Read as much as you can and in particular read Tom's EI method.

You'll want to start with many fast growing plants and keep the tank clean.

I'm sure others will jump in if you list what you have in "proper accoutrements". Are you using CO2, how much light, etc.

 

[angel]

Re: newbie

Thank you GreenStuff for replying to my post.I'm using a 24inch 20w fl bulb[probably not enough].AquaClear 110 filter, NutraFinco2,FloraPride and StressCoat with weekly 30% water changes.I have about 10 stem plants and 8fish[algae eater,angels,neon tetras.Will post stats in a couple of days when I get the correct ones.
Thank you in advance to anyone who replies.

 

[jonathan11]

Re: newbie

A water sample examined by the local water system would be helpful. Mine ran about $10.00, but some I understand are free. Also, the substrate that you're using? Not familiar with the type of CO2 you're using, perhaps someone on the site could help advise? Tank temperature? Avoid the most common cause of beginner's problems- DO NOT OVERFEED. A small pinch once or twice a day should be fine. They'll do quite well, and your tank will remain clear. There are websites that will describe the definition of GH, KH, PH, and their relationship to one another. And as previously stated, read Tom's EI article, it's gospel. Hope this helps. Good luck!!

 

[turbomkt]

Re: newbie

You're right about your lighting. 20W on a 30g is pushing the low end. If you can add another 20W you'll be in a position to keep the most common plants going.

Also...as you read about Tom's EI, you'll find that he addresses high and low light tanks. If you just double your lighting, you won't have to worry nearly as much about nutrients.

If there's anything about the EI you're not sure about, it's simple enough for you to post here and get an answer from someone who has been around longer, maybe even Tom.

 

[angel]

Re: newbie

Thanks to all who have helped me-perhaps I'll be able to manage it after all!I received my water analysis today from the town[they came and picked it up for me,and called this afternoon with the results-all for free]It's less than I wanted, but it will have to do.Fe-.01,manganese[sp?].01,aluminum-.0172, NO2-.05, copper-.11[high I believe],ph-7.60.
I wanted more, but this was all I was given.My substrate is gravel, and the tank temp is 75degrees.Everything seems to be going well, but I'm afraid that it may just be beginner's luck.
Thank you for past and future help


Angel

 

[Tom Barr]

Re: newbie

Well given the way things are going, what is it that you desire with this tank?
I can give you advice on hiow to improve it and make it grow plants better, whether or not you use CO2 or not......EI is for new folks with CO2 and folks that want to work their tanks good using CO2.

I generally suggest a good plant specific substrate, these last forever pretty much. More lighting can be added. Tap seems fine.
Main thing: KH, GH and pH for CO2 and to see if there's enough KH/GH in there.

When you add more light, there will be more demand (and effects form usage) from CO2 and nutrients.

Regards,
Tom Barr