sad news.

No, I don't think they would be harmful if applied according to directions. Last year in my newness I went a bit overboard with (most likely bogus) starter bacteria and then got fungus on two guppies and one axolotl and I tend to believe that it was related to the amounts of starter I was putting in the water, but that is just another of my theories. :rolleyes:

I think that the "can't hurt, might help" logic is valid as long as one is sure about the "can't hurt" part.

-Eva
 
I always make sure i put the correct amount in. Don't want to stuff up.
I had to put 45 drops in or a teaspoon of the bacti stuff.
I will test the water again tomorrow and see if it has started to help or not.
Mitch.
 
Excellent, thank you - I am reading avidly!

-Eva
 
Well I'm going now gotta watch the end of the cricket.
Nite xx
 
Hi Mitchell,

If its of any consolation, i am planning a full scale investigation into whether commercial culture starter kits are effective. However i can only commence it sometime early march. I would definitely post any findings i have here (as well as photos).

I intend to perform a hanging drop evaluation, culture and staining as well as basic microbiological biochemistry testing. I am curious to assess if there are indeed bacteria present, whether they are viable, and if they have nitrifying properties.

I suppose you can also test a small amount of the culture to check its chemical parameters - the usual ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, pH. Im sure live bacteria need to feed as well. If i find none of the nitrogenous 'fodder' present, im highly suspicious its bogus.

Cheers.
 
I'll put this as a new post because the subject has changed now.
 
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