New 2 your Aquatic World...

[MyrtleTheTurtle]

mark that puffer wouldnt last the hour, bring him over and we can watch a feeding frenzy!!

 

[missileman]

Here is how I count the tank full rule.
1" per gallon= good, no extra filtration needed.
up to 1-1/2" per gallon= need extra filter and at least 30% water change each week, or more as needed. test water at least every 3 days.
NEVER GO ABOVE 1-1/2" per gallon. (my personal rule)
Now here is how I count my fish.
Don't measure the tail, only the main body. Most fish count as 1" per 1" ,long skinny fish like khuli loaches count as 1/2 the measurement. dirty fish like most catfish including plecos count as double the measurement. extra fat fish add a little bit to the measurement.

 

[MyrtleTheTurtle]

currently running 2 filters, a big one that came with the 55.. and a small one that came with the 10. How often should i change the filter catridges? Any ideas on a good temp range? How fast will these fish actually grow? I have been doing 35% water changes about every month or so.

 

[missileman]

I change the catrdridge about every other month and stagger the changes.
IE... if your filter has 2 cartridges change 1 after a month and the other the next month. I suggest you put the 10 gal filter back on your 10 gal and get one for at least a 30 gallon or better to supliment the one you have.
Common plecos will grow very fast, almost as you watch them. They would love a slice of zuchini every now and then as well.
I don't know how fast the balas grow but I have had a couple for about 2 months and they have grown about an inch.
PS never change the bio-filter (sponge or wheel) just lightly rinse it in used tank water when it starts to get clogged up.
PSS: I do partial water changes on all of my tanks every week. A python gravel vac makes it a very easy, clean and quick job.

 

[MyrtleTheTurtle]

the 55 filter is a double wide, (coincidentally i bought the tank from a lady who lived in a double wide) .. im gonna give the zuchini idea a shot, sounds like fun.. also was given advice about getting feeder fish for my tiger, terror and devil as a monthly treat. Not only amusing but he said it brings out there natural instinct as a true killer. Everyone else in the tank is 2 big and fast to swallow. I hold a accountability formation every morning (my mini schnauzer keeps watch during the day) and so far so good havent had any deaths in a while. Just hoping i can establish a balanced eco system here.