new tank...new fish need help

[david27]

I agree with cichlidmaster lots of filtration, as for other tank mates perhaps look outside the cichlid family this way you eliminate some potential conflicts.

In terms of getting a compatible pair how about a pair of homeless oscars they tend to be quite plentiful. This way you give two large oscar's a good home rather than leaving them in a shop. It also means your tank will look full rather than 2 baby oscars rattling round in a 4 ft tank whilst they grow.

David

 

[thecichlidaddict]

People can't seem to break the habit of measuring filtration by GPH. It's like measuring a cars speed by it's horsepower, it is only one of many aspects to filtration.

What kind of filters are your two externals anyway?

 

[birdman]

they are Jebo's

specs are here:
EXTERNAL AQUARIUM FILTER W/ BUILT-IN PUMP: This is a serious 30W aquarium filter/pump with highly efficient filtration for longer operation. Also ideal for individual filter media layer to suit your specific water treatment. Features: Highly efficient filtration for faster breakdown of harmful substances: mechanical, biological, adsorptive and chemical; Practical filter baskets with handle for easy filling and quick cleaning. Supplied complete with hoses, pipes, valves and other items to connect to or use with your tank or pond. Operates at mains 240VAC supply Dimensions: 300mm x 230mm x 230mm. Weight: 3.5kg.

i kno allot of that is crap....but my mate uses it and rekons its awesome.

 

[thecichlidaddict]

By all means, add more filtration, it certainly won't do any harm, that's for sure. You certainly don't need to rush into it, your Oscar is only 3" long.

Personally I would not spend the money if I already had the filtration that you do.

Whichever way you go, just keep in mind that filtration takes mulm out of the aquarium (though it is still in the water system) and converts toxins into less toxic forms, but otherwise it does not actually clean the water. The only way to clean the water is to replace it with fresh, clean water. You can have a dozen filters on the tank, but if you want to prevent problems like hole-in-the-head as cichlidmaster was referring too, then you need to do regular water changes regardless. I just want to clear that up because too many people think that overkill in filtration can make up for a lack of water changes.

Good luck!

 

[cichlidmaster]

I agree that water quality is in direct proportion to water changes!!

That is why I pointed that out in my last reply. The only good way to effectivly keep nitrates at zero or reduce nitrates is thru good water maintenance!!

birdman, please also remember the majority of my filtering recommendations were for adult fish as well!!

While I also agree that keying in on gph/lph is only one componant of filtration, it IMO is one of THE top considerations since it directly applies to tank volume turnover rates.

Without a high turnover rate in a tank containing large cichlids the mulm and other debris will not be as affectivly removed thereby adding to the waste load and causing an increase in nitrates as well as possibly nitrite spikes.

 

[thecichlidaddict]

No worries master, I wasn't implying that you thought otherwise, I was just restating the fact so that it was not overlooked

See, on my larger cichlid tanks I like to use a dual filter setup. I like a low flow canister filter for biological because lower flow rate gives the bacteria more contact with the toxins and oxygen, and those filters hold so much media (love the eheim classics) I also like a high flow hanging filter to help with that physical waste you are reffering to (aquaclear 500 for me)

I don't count GPH or how many times per hour my aquarium is cycled, partly because my experience let's me know how much, more by instinct then anything, but also because the Eheim throws it off - I get by with a much lower flow rate because of it.

Cheers!

 

[cichlidmaster]

I wasn't implying that you thought otherwise

Didn't think you were

I always enjoy hearing others opinions!!

I agree that the eheim canisters are great filters, but a bit pricy which is why I suggested the magnum.

I also agree that a slower rate to allow water to come in contact with the bacteria is great.

My ideal filter recommendation would always be a wet/dry set up for the larger C/A American cichlids as nothing can compare, but not everyone can afford these.

Most of the keepers I know use either the large eheims with external filters or a wet/dry set up.

I use the experience factor as well for determining whether my filtration is adequate. I also use this method for water parameters as I have not kept a water test kits in my operation for many, many years.

Of course, since importing stingrays I now have the kits as water parameters are very important with them, but I digress!!

Whatever way birdman decides to go tho I am sure of one thing......he will get a lot of enjoyment from the oscars!!

 

[ukjay]

what do u mean by a wet/dry set up ??