dilligaf789

Hey guys, I have two perculla clowns that were added to my tank 2 days ago (my first and only fish) and one in particular is spending alot of time pecking at the surface for air. Its a brand new tank that has been running for two weeks. I added a pouch of bio-spira prior to adding the fish. I'm sure the water is getting enough air... I have a HOB cpr aquatic bak pak protein skimmer and filter in one, maxi jet 600 powerhead, and a 12" airstone. Also, I have live sand and artificial decor, no live rock.

my readings:
salinity = 1.023
temperature = 79
pH between 8.0 - 8.5
ammonia = 1
nitirte = .25
nitrate = 10

Martinismommy

Why do you have an airstone in the tank?

twinston

the level of ammonia and nitrite is high and thats because your tank is still cycling. im pretty new to SW, but the only thing i can think of for you to do about a 20-25% water change to try and reduce both ammonia and nitrite. i dont know much about clowns, so im not sure if they are hardy enough to cycle a tank.

defcon11

They can be hardy enough, but damsels are cheaper and much hardier. Right about the water change, and lose the fake decor and get live rock. Fake stuff is for freshwater. Your tank will cycle much faster, not to mention the added benefits of critters and grazing area for fish.

NirvanaandTool

x2 to this
Definitely do a nice sized water change immediately cause your ammonia and nitrites levels are decently high and save for some cured live rock.
The live rock acts as a biological filter and will help the tank cycle in no time if it is cured.
Just make sure the rock is cured - if it isnt it will only just add more ammonia to your tank.

nemo addict

did you make sure the decor was reef safe when you put it in as it can release toxins in to the water this could also make your fish gasp for air as you would be poisoning them

i would remove clowns in to a QT tank with skimmer and power heads then set main display up properly and let cycle and then put clowns back in ,
and invest in live rock and live sand