Nitrate Levels for Corys

My new 29 gallon tank cycled about 3 weeks ago and I will be adding panda corys this week (they'll be my first batch of fish).

My nitrate levels are really high right now and I'll be doing a big water change tomorrow. What level of nitrates should I aim for?

Thanks!

 

What’s ‘really high’? Generally Nitrates have to be extremely high to hurt most fish.

 

What level of nitrate can you achieve without excessive work or expense?

Cleaning the filter and substrate to remove organic waste is probably more important for fish health anyway.

 

Off topic : Get more than 3 Pandas.

 

Generally below 40ppm nitrate is recommended. I try to keep my nitrate closer to 20ppm. Just curious you have any plans for top/middle fish or just corries only?

 

Generally below 40ppm nitrate is recommended. I try to keep my nitrate closer to 20ppm. Just curious you have any plans for top/middle fish or just corries only?

Yes, I'm either getting some sort of raspbora or neon tetra. My centerpiece fish is going to be a dwarf blue gourami.

Which do you recommend- tetras or raspboras? And which type of raspbora would you recommend if you think that's a good choice?

What level of nitrate can you achieve without excessive work or expense?

Cleaning the filter and substrate to remove organic waste is probably more important for fish health anyway.

Most likely 20ppm. I am going to test nitrates today and do a 50% water chance.

Off topic : Get more than 3 Pandas.

I ordered 6 last night

What’s ‘really high’? Generally Nitrates have to be extremely high to hurt most fish.

Last time I checked, my nitrates were at around 40ppm. I'm doing a 50% water change today.

 

Yes, I'm either getting some sort of raspbora or neon tetra. My centerpiece fish is going to be a dwarf blue gourami.

Which do you recommend- tetras or raspboras? And which type of raspbora would you recommend if you think that's a good choice?

I like tetras, but not neons. They're plagued by health problems. Serpae tetras, black neon tetras, and lemon tetras are some of my favorites. I'd recommend at least 8 of one species.

Speaking of health issues, dwarf gouramis have their fair share also. You might get lucky, or you might want to consider a small group of honey gouramis instead.

 

Ideally, 20 or below. As mentioned tank maintenance is key. Also, plants will help. I even use pothos house plants, stick the roots in the tank and lay on top of the glass. They suck up the nitrates and grow very well.

Good Luck!