Brian

Risk and Rewards. I use a lot of UGFilters with power heads so sand isn’t an option in those tanks. I also run HOB and/or canister filters and if ever had one running that had picked up sand and now is grinding and ruining the impeller you know why I don’t use them on those tanks. Also if you get the tiniest piece under a mag float or a scotch brite pad while cleaning the glass. Game over - scratches. Some plants have a hard time getting a good root base established in sand. I guess I’m just not a fan.

With the fish. ? Nothing.. Cut about 5 acres and trimmed. Yard work most of the day. Beautiful day to be outside.

The Aquarium Co Op heater is only available in 100 watts.

Return it to the store. My room is 68-70 and my aquarium co op heater heat my 46 gallon bow front and my 40 gallon to 78-80 no problem.

What about any of the African Tetras? Not sure if they like harder water or not. Also what do you consider hard water? maybe Rasboras?

Wait until lights out for 30 -45 minutes or place food inside a pleco cave/hide. I haven’t seen many fish go inside them looking for food. Good Luck

Shop Aquariums Co Op and purchase test strips. When I used them I just rinsed 3 or 4 times tap water and let air dry.

I remember as a kid (old timers) talking about feeding dog foods to their fish. Especially pond fish.

Is this really possible? Just use a small amount of eggs. Different size measuring spoons. Just increase the size of the spoon until you get to amount you are happy with. Of freeze the extra?

Looks like Corydoras aeneus.

I think if no harm is done to the animals- Then whatever it takes to get that next person into the hobby …….. Different Strokes for Different Folks I guess.

I have had really good luck with LifeGard Aquatic products.

Just would like to take a minute to wish all the father’s (of human and maybe fins, fur and feathers- you get the point) a Happy and Blessed Father’s Day.

Congratulations. Good luck. I would try to get it a friend (another Discus) soon. Looking great.

I like black. But I think it depends on the fish.

I guess one way to gain control of silicate in tap water is with a reverse osmosis (RO) filtration system. Many reef-keepers use RO/DI water to mix saltwater and freshwater top-offs. I’ve never tested my own water. And have really thought about it. Now I’m wondering if a carbon block filter would work…. Maybe a inline carbon filter on the supply line?

I agree.

I’ve used under gravel filters since I was a kid. With proper maintenance (gravel vacuum) these filters can run for years. You will find once the plants settle in they will thrive.

That’s what it looks like to me. I bet you have more…. Sorry

I don’t want to go into why, how much you have and how much you need. I once made a (DIY) pond filter with a bucket. I used cheap (fabric store) stuffing and then sponge and then a box of lava rocks for grilling.

Depends on fish-size of the fish and the size of aquarium. Find what works for you the best…. Find what is easiest and most convenient for you. Be honest, if it easy, fast and efficient we are more likely to do it. And you might find each tank might be different.

I have used Rummy Nose and Cardinals with my Discus. 18-24 of each along with the Discus.

I think each person-fish-aquarium is different. Also I never start and stop HOB and Canister filters just for feeding. I have turned air down on fry tanks. Never off. If you ever forget to turn it back on you will be very upset with yourself. Good Luck

I would keep the fish and provide it with a great home until you can’t. Maybe at some point you can purchase a larger tank? But I think you have several years before you need to worry about it. When that time comes you can no longer do the best for the animal you can re-home him. Let’s be honest, if you take it back to the store…. What future will the animal have? Good Luck

Just be careful. Some places have laws about removing things (rocks- stone- branches- plants) from city/county/state parks and recreation areas. I once picked up a branch to use as a walking stick on a hike and while leaving I was reminded the stick needed to stay in the park.