Restarting a tank ...

[Lazysummerhome]

Hi all! I used to be on here as Snake_apartment , reference to the almighty Grindcore band Man Is The Bastard. I couldnt figure out my login so I am back with a Grateful Dead song ref.haha. Anyway , I have a 12 gallon fluval edge live planted. Only have two neons and a pleco. As for plants I have some swords and grass and such. I have no extra light or anything. Everything seems fine and it’s been going 3 + years strong. Considering re starting it. I’ve gotten some algae and I think the soil may be ready to be replaced. Any advice on this ? I may want to take a new approach to how I plant it. I don’t know. Maybe just a fresh breath. What are your thoughts ? What else can I do ? Any advice on saving the fish . Etc.

 

[earhtmother]

My first immediate question is what kind of pleco?

 

[Lazysummerhome]

Not sure. I’m a n00b for sure. Small little brown and tan chiller. He’s small. Like 3 years old and only about 2 inches long.

 

[earhtmother]

Ok that sounds more like a bristle nose than a common to me because of it's size at 3 years but there are others on here more learned than I. I've been sold a few commons for Bristles which in your small tank would be disastrous. I'll leave the rest of your questions for the experts

 

[King Fisher]

I think if it was a common he'd be around 8-9 inches after 3 years. Pics always help and are welcome.