ading more fish

[baz]

Hi
I'm ten days into cycling my 18 gal tropical tank. I have 3 neon tetras, 3 cherry barbs, and 3 platties, despite having contracted white spot (which i am treating with king british white spot terminator), things seem to be going well. My ammonia levels are now 0, nitrites still quite high. I change 20% water every other day, then add medication.
How long before nitrites fall, and what type of fish do you think would get along with those mentioned above?
I would rather get fish to suit my water, which is soft ph7, and they be healthy and happy.
I have sand and gravel so do you think bottom feeders would be ok with gravel?
Many thanks

 

[kgrehm]

In your 18 gal. tank it may take a bit for the nirites to go down. That is the longest part of the whole cycle. How long have you been treating for the white spots? You have pretty compatible fish. Cherry barbs are one of the calmest barbs and mollies arent to aggresive. YOu have to be careful that you dont over crowed your tank, but some different tetras would look nice!

You can have a bottom feeder with gravel. I am sure that it doesnt make to much of a difference to them. HTH

 

[-cAtFiSh-]

get some more neon tetras for sure. you should have at least 6 for them to be happy. and they look better when there are lots

 

[Inchworm]

Hi baz

A small school of corydoras catfish would be great in your tank. They do need sand or small gravel that has no rough or sharp edges. Basically, they dig in the substrate to find bits of food and you want to avoid damage to their barbels by having them cut or abraded.

Corys are friendly little fish that need to be kept in groups of 3 or more. Here's a link with information about them:

http/www.planetcatfish.com/catelog/calli...ra/g_thumbs.htm

 

[reiben]

yes.. neon tetras would look cool in bunches... bottom dwellers are cool I always liked them... and dude its your tank ... you be creative

 

[boozybears]

Hang in there with the cycling! I just finished cycling my 25 gallon tank about a month ago... it took nearly 2 months for amonia and nitrites to get down to '0'. If possible, resist the urge to buy anymore fish until your levels are safe. I know it's hard but your fish will thank you!!

Good luck!! You're half-way there!!
Val

 

[modernhamlet]

People have given pretty good companion fish for your tank. Just please make sure that there is 0 ammonia and 0 nitrite before you add them. Also, you should probably wait until 2 full weeks after the ick is completely gone before adding any new fish.

Good luck with your tank! Keep us informed on your progress.