8g Biocube nitrates up

Dearth · #1 03-12-2013, 03:01 PM

Have you considered a hang on filter like Aquaclear? While its not a protein skimmer it would help in getting rid of some of the larger floaters out

Borderjumper · #2 03-12-2013, 03:32 PM

I too would be really careful dosing in a tank that small.. Try just upping your water changes and it should resolve itself.

pinkreef · #3 03-12-2013, 03:41 PM

hi shelly,
i would stick to really small fish like your neon goby
the 6 line needs to swim a lot, i would trade him in for something tiny
(besides they are on the aggresive side imo)
barb

i love smilies

jacamarorchids · #4 03-13-2013, 02:17 AM

Oh Pinkreef, I have already tried to warn her of your sixline problems....

pinkreef · #5 03-13-2013, 03:06 PM

JUST AN

YOU PROBABLY WANT A PEACEFUL TANK WITH BEAUTIFUL FRIENDLY
CREATURES

Skimmerking · #6 03-13-2013, 03:15 PM

with a 8 g tank there isnt any reason to have Nitrates. if you have a 5 gal empty pail of salt. do a water change with that 5 gal will really take the nitrates away doing small water changes will not take care of the Nitrates.
I would doing like 75% and then check your nitrates in 1 day to see if you are having it rise again. if it is then start looking at what you have in there for live stock and how much you are feeding.

Shelley · #7 03-14-2013, 02:38 AM

Thanks to all for posting. I am taking all advice into consideration for sure. Yesterday I took a sample in to LFS for nitrite/ammonia test as I don't have these in my kit. They were zero, as were nitrates.

Six line, yes pinkreef, I've been warned. Was told originally it was a good choice and I did the unfortunate "go with your heart" response as I've seen larger ones of these while snorkelling in the past and just love the colour/shape. After purchase, I was warned and I did more reading. Will not make any moves just yet.

If I did a 75% water change, wouldn't that be a shock to the tank's inhabitants and the establishing ecology?

Thanks for the don't panic advice. That's where I tend to go right now as I'm unfamiliar with all of the chemistry pieces and don't want to be irresponsible or kill anything. As I get used to the tank I think this panic will abate!