A Walstad Tank...

[WhistlingBadger]

In my experience, once the plants are growing vigorously, your tank is effectively cycled, and you can gradually start adding fish. Of course, waiting a bit longer is never a bad idea.

 

[connorlindeman]

In my experience, once the plants are growing vigorously, your tank is effectively cycled, and you can gradually start adding fish. Of course, waiting a bit longer is never a bad idea.

I think i'll wait a bit. Maybe a few weeks.

 

[WhistlingBadger]

I think i'll wait a bit. Maybe a few weeks.

Nothing wrong with that.

 

[connorlindeman]

Day 6 update picture:

Evaporation is a problem so I'm going to have to make a lid of some sort.

 

[JuiceBox52]

Day 6 update picture:
View attachment 309955
Evaporation is a problem so I'm going to have to make a lid of some sort.

I use cling wrap for makeshift lids

 

[connorlindeman]

I use cling wrap for makeshift lids

Thats actually a really good idea!

 

[WhistlingBadger]

For a few bucks you can probably get your local glass shop to cut a couple pieces to fit the top. Sand the edges to avoid losing fingers during feeding times, and you're good to go. More permanent than plastic wrap and cheaper than a commercially made lid.

 

[connorlindeman]

For a few bucks you can probably get your local glass shop to cut a couple pieces to fit the top. Sand the edges to avoid losing fingers during feeding times, and you're good to go. More permanent than plastic wrap and cheaper than a commercially made lid.

That's a good idea too. I usually use acrylic but that bends and ends up looking bad.

 

[WhistlingBadger]

Yeah, acrylic and thin plexiglass don't work because they always end up warping over time. You want real glass.

 

[connorlindeman]

Tested the tank and all the numbers are good.
Day 7:

 

[WhistlingBadger]

Looking great, Connor!

 

[connorlindeman]

Looking great, Connor!

Thanks!

 

[davros]

That's a good idea too. I usually use acrylic but that bends and ends up looking bad.

You can use use those materials -acrylic,, lexan, perspex, etc but they need reinforcement. i usually use then for the removable feeding lid portion but attach another piece at 90 degress (ie vertically) that is at least 1.5 inches high. This resists sagging and also acts as the handle. I tend to use material thick enough to tap for machine screws for attachment.

 

[connorlindeman]

Day 13 Pic

Added a Nerite a few days ago.
I really want to add some more pygmy chain swords.

 

[connorlindeman]

Pond snails may not look like much, but up close they are actually very meticulously designed creatures.
I got a nice macro video of one of the pond snails in this tank. Thought I would share.
Video is best around the 30 second mark.