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Thank you. I had noted in my original post that I have a non-planted tank. But I didn't realize that API offered a TWC (only) product, I will consider that. I agree that only what is essential is best, I do not like to add treatments or chemical filtration.

Noted, thank you. Of course there are a wide variety of opinions on amount and frequency of water changes, but generally, yeah, more is better.

Hi, I'm going to make the switch of my tap water conditioner from API Stress Coat+ to Seachem Prime, as I see often recommended here and elsewhere. 15-gal freshwater, non-planted, well established with good and stable parameters over time. Fish seem happy and healthy. I typically do a 5-gal...

Thank you for the replies, appreciate the explanation regarding the lighting and nutrient balance. This gives me hope for a relatively easy fix. After reading this, I researched more on lighting, and discovered I am likely having the lights on WAY too long. I have adjusted my timer from 10...

Hello, asking for suggestions to deal with what I think is black beard algae in my 15-gal (Fluval Flex) planted tank, primarily on the plants. It has been up and running for about 3 months now with stable parameters (see below). I have been "scraping" some off of the leaves between my fingers...

Yes, it's a mesh bag of carbon. In the bottom cutout is a mesh bag of bio rings. Not an ideal setup at all, IMO, even if you swap the positions. You're right, the foam IS the media, primarily. This is why I'm searching for opinions on alternative media basket inserts, to replace "big foamy" lol.

Thanks for giving this some thought. Your food coloring idea is a good one, I may try that, although the back of the tank has a dark coating on the outside. Somewhat translucent, but not clear like the cutaway photos make it look. And you're right, if some amount of water takes and fills the...

I once had a 35-gallon tank with a canister filter. Tight, sealed, easy to understand the how the water flows, and how to stack the media. Now, 20 years later, I'm setting up a Fluval Flex 15 gallon. I've inserted 2 photos to help with my description of the "stock" setup. They are cutaway views...

Byron, thank you for this well thought out reply. I will be studying your suggestions, along with those from some others, and am now likely to be steering away from Neons, Cardinals, Glowlights, etc. I am lucky to have a couple of aquarium shops (beyond the pet chains) here in Maryland, as well...

Yes, I've scrapped the idea of Cories. Would Neon or Glowlight Tetras be a better choice than Cardinal Tetras, or would they have the same issue with the short tank length?

Re: the GH and KH, yes, they are in degrees. I understand the varying opinions on a "centerpiece" fish, and the reasoning. My personal preference, at this point, is a single Honey Gourami. While I love Cories, I will opt for shrimp instead, as they are recommended in a smaller group than...

I like the idea of a "center piece" fish. Would a honey gourami do well on its own? I also like the suggestion of some floating plants. Thanks!

Re: the volume measurement, the dimensions I gave are the overall. The Fluval Flex 15 has a divided off area in the back for filter/pump/heater that takes about 3" away from the width, and goes full height. It also has a bit of a bow (top-to-bottom) of the front glass, and the water level would...

Thanks for the great info! The tank dimensions are 16"L x 15"W x 15"H, pretty much a cube. And very good food info - looks like I need to study up on the ingredients. I'm familiar with overcrowding concerns, and the (very general) 1" per gallon rule. 12 tetras or 12 rasboras (but not both) eat...

Thanks for the welcome. From my county website, average values are gH=7, kH=4, pH=7.2

Hi, back in the hobby after 20 years or so, I won't mind if y'all consider me a newbie;). I have a Fluval Flex 15-gallon with heater which I am currently cycling (fishless). It is NON-PLANTED, sparsely decorated with a few plastic plants and a resin ornament. The gravel is the only natural...