Thanks to all the people who gave advice yesterday. As of this morning all water parameters are returning to normal, did a third 5 gal water change and all surviving animals are doing well and looking normal.
When it rains it pours, the stock pump crapped out on me this morning. The impellor was badly worn after only a couple months run time what a disappointment. I ordered two new MJ 1200's and a lockline Y to mod the tank somewhat. As a temporary fix I took apart a Regent powerhead and used the impeller out of it in the stock pump. Works well. Had to change the rubber end bushings then it dropped right in.
Also ordered new test kits. More chemi pure and carbon. I'm running 3 bags of fluval carbon and two bags of chemi pure in the back. The sponge is going to be removed tonight and only put back in on water change days to catch larger chunks. Then it will be removed washed and not put back in until the next water change. What would you guys do with the ceramic media? It's been in since day 1 should I leave it in or remove it at some point? Until I get some input on this one it will remain in the tank.
Again, Thanks everyone!!
Brad
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