redsea's 20g Freshwater Build

[simplicitysarah]

I recharged mine after it was really really brown.. i don't remember the exact length of time but maybe 2 months.. curious to hear other people's answer

[Ian086]

Originally Posted by redsea

I have a quick question tonight!

How often do you guys change your Purigen? I currently have a pouch of it in my filter, which I believe is good for 100 gallons. Thank you!

I have two bags(100g) in my canister. I haven't charged mine in about 4mths. It really depends on the load in your tank. I would say mine is ready to be charged very soon. I will check it today during my PWC. As was said, not until it's really dark brown, almost black. Take yours out and give it a rinse in old tank water. It could be good for another bit....

[redsea]

Thanks for the input both of you, I appreciate it.

[Rivercats]

I too change mine when the beads turn very dark which varies from tank to tank depending on alot of different factors. I've actually gone up to 6 monts in tanks with low bio-loads before and have had to do it as often as 2 weeks when in a tank with heavily leaching tannins. You basically just have to watch it and change it as needed.

[Ian086]

Are you going to change it for new or recharge it??

[redsea]

Thanks Janis!


Ian- I am not sure yet, maybe I will try to recharge it. It seems like a daunting task though.

[Ian086]

Originally Posted by redsea

Ian- I am not sure yet, maybe I will try to recharge it. It seems like a daunting task though.

Nah, it's simple. I have no choice really, as I pay a lot for Prime and Purigen over here. It might be financially better for you to recharge it. Less papers for you to deliver....haha!!!

[redsea]

Swordtails would not be a good choice for this tank, would they (especially with the Guppy?)?

I love these over at Liveaquaria, but I don't think they will work. Am I correct in my thinking?

Tropical Fish for Freshwater Aquariums: Koi Swordtail
Thank you!

[Rivercats]

The problem with Swords is they have a high bio-load and what few people know is male swords can get 5+ inches and really need a large tank. Too often people see the cute little guys in a fish store and don't realize how big they can get.

[Ian086]

Originally Posted by Rivercats

The problem with Swords is they have a high bio-load and what few people know is male swords can get 5+ inches and really need a large tank. Too often people see the cute little guys in a fish store and don't realize how big they can get.

I agree, it's not aggression that's the issue. It's the bio-load.....

[redsea]

Originally Posted by Rivercats

The problem with Swords is they have a high bio-load and what few people know is male swords can get 5+ inches and really need a large tank. Too often people see the cute little guys in a fish store and don't realize how big they can get.

Originally Posted by Ian086

I agree, it's not aggression that's the issue. It's the bio-load.....

Thanks both of you for your help! Maybe these guys will be an option for my future bigger freshwater tank.

[redsea]

What are your guys' thoughts on three or so White Skirts to go along with the Blacks?

[redsea]

One more fish question......I have been looking at Bolivian Rams, and may go with those as opposed to the GBRs, any thoughts? Thank you!

[redsea]

Oh, I realize a pair of GBRs is innapropriate for this aquarium, but is a pair of Bolivians equal unacceptable? What about two females?

Thanks!

[Rivercats]

IMO just getting a single male GBR or Bolivian would be the way to go in this tank. They would be peaceful and not cause any issues in a smaller tank being singles. Two females can exsist together alot better than two males but there will still be bickering especially if you get a more aggressive female.

[redsea]

Ah, thanks Janis!

I know a LFS has some Bolivians in stock currently, but don't want to purchase one yet if the tank is not ready.

[Rivercats]

You can add a Bolivian sooner than a GBR although IMO they aren't as pretty. I actually think the female Bolivians are prettier due to their pink bellies.

[redsea]

Hmmmm, so much to think about! I may just stick to the original plan of a GBR, and plan for around June so the tank is more established.

I am very indecisive!

[Rivercats]

Better to wait and get something you want than get something now that your not going to be happy with in the long run.

[redsea]

Very true.

I am definitely going to wait for the GBR. I like Bolivians too, but have decided on a GBR for this tank. Patience certainly is a virtue!

Thanks a bunch! I REALLY appreciate it!