Hoi Polloi

Now the three fish that came with the aquarium are in the tank. I do want most people would likely do. I go to the local fish store (LFS). Especially, reading that the bloodfins like more of their company. I explain the situation and the LFS advises to bring in some water for testing. Later, I perform that task and when complete, I ask, "Can I get some fish"? The reply is No. The water needs to be better. A major water change is recommended - which is performed. I go back to the LFS but it closed. I have my water from the aquarium and decide to go to LFS#2. While they test the water I shop around for some decorations. LFS#2 advises that my water is not terrible but not great either and they too advise no fish purchases until the water is much better. It is suspected the substrate is holding a lot of fish poop and despite the water changes, it recontaminates the water. Each week, I clean the substrate with each water change and I see major improvements in water quality. It is amazing, the three original fish have survived. To be continued...

It all started when a relative gave me a 29 gal tank. I never got it going despite buying a few items for it. Eventfully, I returned it and they in turn sold it at a garage sale. Some time later, another relative, who did not have any time for their aquarium, talked me into getting it. Two times someone tried to give me their aquarium and succeeded on the second try. The second tank is an older 46 gallon bow front that came with three fish. A golden gourami, red fin shark rainbow shark, and a lone bloodfin tetra. A crash course ensued on taking care of these swimming thingys. To be continued...

I've seen a few posts about Cory's dying and I include me on the list of unexplainable Cory deaths. Being new to the aquarium scene, I had four out of six die which I attributed to my inexperience. Then I bought two more (wanted to get the two other Cory's classmates), one died. I didn't bother taking the fish back but I was beginning to suspect the Cory's were not as easy to take care of as I was reading. Not wanting to give up and before I bought more, I tested my water, all was in order. So, I bought three more. They went into the quarantine tank - nice and cycled too. All seem well, lively fish, no apparent illness, etc. Then a few days later - two went to fish heaven. Went to back to the LFS with dead fish and my water. It tested well, explained my tank setup, they were at a lost and offered a replacement which I declined and received store credit instead. Now ALL the other fish I have bought have survived and others have commented that my fish look good and active. The two original Cory's are doing find - it's getting them classmates that is providing difficult. My next adventure is to a different LFS and before I buy, ask if the two stores have the same supplier.

Bolivian Ram smiling and waving. Had the fins done at the fish salon for this photo. (*Previously posted)

Newly acquired Bolivian Ram.

A mystery snail "walking" along the sand.

Red Eye Tetra

Smiling Bolivian Ram

Decided to join the forum and include a photo. Perhaps, I'll include a journal of some type here, since I inherited an aquarium and had a crash course on taking care of the swimmy creatures (Much information from this site and the Co-Op). Cheers!