Hello ALL!!! Yet another Noob!! Packed with a question already.

[mattman0182]

I just got a 29 gallon complete with heater and filter. I set it up 2 days ago and put the chemicals to make tap water safe for fish. I want to make sure everything is A-ok before I put an animal in the tank. On my next day off I will go to the store to have a test of my water done.

I have one problem though: When I was younger I was given an adult piranha. He lived for about 6 months under my care. Now that I am older and have done research, I am more capable to give one better care.

I was planning on either going with baby red bellies (1 or 2), or just having a community tank. The decision has become very hard for me to make.
And yes, Piranhas are legal to purchase in Maryland.

I will ultimatly make the decision on my own, but any advice is greatly appreciated.

 

[mgamer20o0]

they get too big for a 29 gallon. they also do better in groups. i think they max at around 12 inch maybe a little smaller. first of all read up fishless cycling. buy your self a test kit and hold of buying fish. basically you need to get your tank read for fish. bacteria grows that breaks down ammonia and nitrites which is harmful to fish and may kill them.

 

[fort384]

Welcome to AA!

Read up on the nitrogen cycle and fishless cycling, as mgamer suggested. The water may be safe for fish now, but without the nitrifying bacteria established, adding fish will make your water unsuitable for life within days.

Check out these resources to get you started.

http://www.aquariumadvice.com/articles/articles/24/1/Nitrogen-Cycle-/Page1.html

http://www.aquariumadvice.com/artic...ks-for-your-fastest-fishless-cycle/Page1.html

http://www.aquariumadvice.com/forums/f15/fishless-cycling-for-dummies-103339.html

 

[mattman0182]

Wow Thanks for the links!! I will definatly want to do it the right way.

I do have another question related to that of the Piranha idea. I do believe they have a rather slow growth rate. Say I get 3 or 4 of the little tiny guys..how long do I have until they need to be moved to a larger tank?

Sorry for such stupid questions and thanks again in advance!!

 

[snoopiie]

Its not even when do you move it to a bigger tank, its usually better to start them off right in the right size tank, go experiment and get make a community tank for your self and enjoy it and learn.