Control Algae, Debris Etc

[the_lock_man]

Thanks - will do a 50% one now and keep on with them until I can test with the API kit.

The advise on here has been great and I think I will go the snails or shrimp route when my tank is fully cycled and running well.

Definitely wait until you're cycled - shrimp in particular need excellent water quality.

 

[Aqua Tom]

Ok the bad news is that you need to be doing daily 50% water changes, The good news is that with a 60 litre its not such a big chore. I do weekly 50% water changes on my 180 litre & will be doing the same when I get my 450 litre up & running, now that will take some time.

 

[PudPud]

Am I right in thinking the 50% daily water changes are just until the cycle is complete and ammonia/nitrite levels are as low as they should be?
So once the tank is established I would only be doing smaller water changes (approx 1/5th) once a week or so and only do more often if levels raise or if something shows up on my water tests for example.

 

[Overload]

Yea that's the idea, though some people still do a 50% weekly change, especially with planted tanks.

It would be worth referring to the thread I mentioned earlier its pretty detailed.

 

[Aqua Tom]

Am I right in thinking the 50% daily water changes are just until the cycle is complete and ammonia/nitrite levels are as low as they should be?
So once the tank is established I would only be doing smaller water changes (approx 1/5th) once a week or so and only do more often if levels raise or if something shows up on my water tests for example.

Exactly right.

 

[PudPud]

Just a quick update to say 1 x 50% water change done yesterday and tank already looks much clearer this morning, in fact almost at the crystal clear look it was on day one! I will continue with these daily 50% changes until api kit arrives and I can check ammonia etc properly.
Thanks again for the help

PS - have decided on 2 x small apple snail for bottom of tank and the amano shrimp recommended (when levels are stable) - have checked online that they wont hurt each other