So after a 4 - 5 gal water change 2 days ago, I went ahead and tested the water this morning. I'm still struggling to get the nitrates down.
The tank has two racks of filter media, I'm running filter floss, purigen and 1 unit of chempure in one rack and the included sponges in the other (top sponge, charcoal, and phosphate sponge).
pH 8.0
nitrite 0
am 0
nitrate 20?
I'll do another water change in the A.M., with the LFS water and I'll also be taking a sample with me to get a second opinion. My tank is clear, there is absolutely no hint of algae, I found a dead Nassarius snail and removed him from the tank, but other than that, I am stumped. Everything looks healthy and actually looks great since the installation of the LED lighting!
I'm feeding once a day, and on appearances, everything looks fine.
I have a Percula, Royal Gamma and Firefish all of whom seem to be happy. Although on another side note, I saw my Fire Shrimp sprint out of his hole and try to "Grab" the Gamma? I'm assuming he was just being territorial?
Anyway, I appreciate any input or additional ideas to get my Nitrates down.
Thanks again,
Mike