I’m finally done final exams so now I get to set up my “big” fish tank. It’s actually only a 23 gallon, but it’s a step up from my 5 gal. I’m getting my first few fish tomorrow (tank has been filled and running for 3 days) and just wanted to check if my plan sounds ok to more experienced fishkeepers.
1. I will get either 4 male guppies to start with, or 2 male guppies and 2 male platies, depending on the stock at the LFS.
I’m going to move some filter material, gravel and decorations from my established 5 gallon into the 23 gallon, to help start the cycle. I have a Seachem ammonia alert and will also be testing the water daily to make sure there aren’t any dangerous spikes. I’ll also have a few live plants. As a general rule, should I do a partial water change if the ammonia level rises above 1.0 ppm? I was going to wait until a few days after I add the fish to put in the filter material and gravel so the good bacteria don’t all die off before there is any ammonia for them to use. Will this work?
2. After the cycle is finished and levels are safe, I would like to add the following fish:
5 dwarf neon rainbows
1 male krib
3 small cories or 2 otos
Will the krib be ok with the guppies, or will they become a snack? I was going to get a krib pair, but I think I’ll wait until I’m more experienced to try breeding.
Also, would a female betta be compatible in this tank? I don’t know much about them. Would she be happy alone and would she leave the other fish alone? I just thought a female would be colorful and add some personality.
Any suggestions are welcome! Thanks.
1. I will get either 4 male guppies to start with, or 2 male guppies and 2 male platies, depending on the stock at the LFS.
I’m going to move some filter material, gravel and decorations from my established 5 gallon into the 23 gallon, to help start the cycle. I have a Seachem ammonia alert and will also be testing the water daily to make sure there aren’t any dangerous spikes. I’ll also have a few live plants. As a general rule, should I do a partial water change if the ammonia level rises above 1.0 ppm? I was going to wait until a few days after I add the fish to put in the filter material and gravel so the good bacteria don’t all die off before there is any ammonia for them to use. Will this work?
2. After the cycle is finished and levels are safe, I would like to add the following fish:
5 dwarf neon rainbows
1 male krib
3 small cories or 2 otos
Will the krib be ok with the guppies, or will they become a snack? I was going to get a krib pair, but I think I’ll wait until I’m more experienced to try breeding.
Also, would a female betta be compatible in this tank? I don’t know much about them. Would she be happy alone and would she leave the other fish alone? I just thought a female would be colorful and add some personality.
Any suggestions are welcome! Thanks.
