richard7467

i've been reading through many of the threads posted here and I am picking up alot of tips, the last thread I read was about filters...now i've got undergravel filters that appear to be working and later today i'm going to introduce the canister filter 9once i've fixed the leaks on the valves), now heres my dilema it has three stages first one has ceramics in the next has carbon and the last being for a plain filter. What i'm trying to lead up to is do I use the carbon stage when i'm first setting up and how would it effect the cycling process? your thoughts please

susitna-flower

HI RICHARD7467, WELCOME TO FISHLORE!


I would suggest taking the carbon out and replacing it with floss, sponges, or more (any biological media) bio stars, rings, balls. Don't fall for those medias that promise to absorb ammonia, or phosphates, as these end up being a problem. You can use peat in the canister (in a bag), if you have high ph and want to lower it naturally, only do this though if your tap water is 7.8 or above and you want to keep fish that like 6.5 for example.

What are you cycling your tank with? Fish, or are you doing a fish less cycle? Enjoy the forum, and tell us all about your tank plans.....

richard7467

thanks for the advice i'll take the carbon out and replace with one of the items you recommended i'm cycling the tank fishless once the cycle happens I was planning on initiating the tank with some zebras and possibly some Cories do you think this is a good or bad idea if good how many I have a 40g. Thanks for the warm welcome and advice!