Cycle question and fish help~

[go9ma123]

Finally got the ADA aqua soils yesterday. (they delayed me 2weeks since, they were lazy to order from their HQ...) I have 20g tank and setting up for shrimp tank. I did put soils on my tank and cycled about 25hours. Got rid of some dirty stuff that was floating on top of the water and took out some dirty water. I really do not have time to go to fish store this week expect later today. Water seemed to be little more clearly then last few hours. Any ways no plants yet until 3rd or 4th day until water gets little cleaer. I heard when you cycle putting fish do help. So I am getting 3-4 minows in fish store later on. Is it good to put them in like 26-27hours after setup? Also, after 20-25days, if my water is good I'm trying to put shrimps in. But, these minows gotta go. I got a fish tank that has 3 flying fox, 2 alage eaters, and 5 guppies. Is that safe to put them in? Any setting info can be very thankful.

[Shadow]

Actually you should start planting now and lots of them. Then cycle it together with the vegetation for about 2 or 3 weeks, unless you use mature filter media. If you happen to measure the water pH for the first few weeks you will see pH as low as 4.8 ~ 5 . It will slowly stabilize to about 6 (end of 3rd week)

By the way, your water will get muddy/claudy every time you disturb the substrate. Not sure with ADA aquasoils II though. That is why plant now

[go9ma123]

Ah, I have some java moss right now but, rest of the plant is coming this friday or saturday. Can I still add the fish today?

[Quixotic]

Well, since you asked, strictly personally (and please don't take it the wrong way), I prefer the fishless cycling way. Here is an FAQ from Practical Fishkeeping on fishless cycling, http://www.practicalfishkeeping.co.u...article_id=113.

If you must use fish, use those that are hardy and not as sensitive to water parameters. Minnows should be okay I think, should not be a problem introducing them now. They would do okay if moved to your community tank.

However, it is said that ADA aquasoil actually leeches ammonia. Therefore, it may take longer for the nitrogen cycle to complete. But if you could perform the ammonia/nitrite tests after 3 to 4 weeks to confirm that it is safe (readings should be 0), then introducing the shrimps is not an issue.

[go9ma123]

Well, since you asked, strictly personally (and please don't take it the wrong way), I prefer the fishless cycling way. Here is an FAQ from Practical Fishkeeping on fishless cycling, http://www.practicalfishkeeping.co.u...article_id=113.

Wow~ Great link!
Also, thanks again for your great info.