Question: Tank Help

[CalumR]

Hi, just setting up my fish tank (150L) in preparation on getting some Axolotls. I treated the water with instant PH7 and ran the filter for 2 days. I turned the filter of last night and when i woke up i noticed the water was very cloudy and what looks like mold covering the whole of the floor. can any one tell me what has happened?

Thanks Calum

 

[Jenste]

do not use chemical additives to alter pH in your tank - - a stable pH that matches your tap water is more beneficial than constantly fluctuating pH.

Also, you should NEVER turn your filter off - a filter is where you grow a beneficial bacteria colony that feeds off ammonia/nitrite. Turn it off and the bacteria quickly dies from oxygen deprivation because water is not circling over it.

I recommend googling the "Nitrate Cycle" and how to Cycle a fishtank. Right now your filter is just moving water around, it takes weeks to build a bacteria colony capable of filtering your water. Do not change your filter cartridge until it is literally falling apart and even then only change it in parts or you will destroy the bacteria colony that all filtration systems strive to build

 

[larn]

as Jenste suggested you should look into the nitrogen cycle.

One very important thing to remember is never listen to what the pet shop tell you (unless it's an independent shop run by specialists) Your tank needs to undergo a long cycle if you want them to live in a healthy environment.

 

[digger]

Hi just my little bit of advice,
The best way to cycle your tank is naturally, you should never use chemicals in something you are placing your axies in, the best thing i found is to place a piece of meat in the tank with the water and any
decoration you intend to use, leave the filter running and if possible increase the water temperature. Once the water starts getting cloudy remove the meat and reduce the temperature, allow the bacteria to take over and complete the cycle, once the water is clear again your tank should be ready, any doubts just get your water checked at your local fish shop, they will normally do this for free. If all is ok you can then safely add your axie.
hope this is of some help.