The two powerheads would work just fine and the HOB would be good for mixing your new water.wilson said:
None need to be acclimated but you may wish to "dip" the LR in some salinated selzer water for a minute or two before placing in the main tank to get rid of unwanted hitchikers. If pre-cured LFS rock, it may not be necessary.
Actually in a 20 gal, 3 would be a safer number. The two clowns would be fine but only one of the other two.
This ones more a personal choice with many but personally I find it much easier to aquacape placing the smaller pieces on the bottom. Push them into the sand so they are stable and then stack the larger pieces on top. Finding crevaces that fit well together will wedge the rock making it more stable.
wilson said:
Providing the sand has any viable bacteria in it, it will. FWIW, what you are talking about is basically bacterial colonization in which any decaying matter will accomplish the same thing and cost you zip. Adding bagged wet sand IMO, is a complete waste of money. If you are able to add sand from another established tank or properly seeded sand chalked full of life, that's a different story and usually well worth the money albeit pricey.wilson said:
There is no difference in appearance between LS and dead base sand provided they are both the same type... ie oolitic aragonite or the like. The "Life" is a combination of micro/macro fauna and bacteria. Anything added to the tank that either allows creation of or colonization for, will transfer to the lifeless sand or rock.
Unless it is a proper titanium heater (which I suspect it isn't), I would replace it as soon as possible. It will most likely corrode and cause you problems. If it is titanium, just get a suction bracket from the LFS. Should only cost a few bucks
DOH!!wilson said:
Sorry about that. I have no idea what themometer you have now but if it just floats about you can also get a suction bracket for that as well to keep it in one place. Make sure it is positioned in an area away from PH's and the heater to get an accurate reading tough.It is possible to make a skimmer but you need to make sure it is constructed properly or it will not work efficiently. I have not seen any DIY plans lately I could recommend but a google search should give you some good results. If after finding some decent plans and it turns out to be a little duaghnting, you might be better off just purchasing one which is what I would recommend in the first place.
If you are refering to the original list of fish, no. With or without a skimmer that many fish given adult max size and eating behavour would not be advisable. I would only get the mated clowns and one other for a 20 gal tank unless you opt for different fish.wilson said:
I would look for an alternate LFS or shop online. I would not recommend either of these skimmer your LFS has. They are very inefficient and not worth the money. If cost is a factor, I would suggest saving up and buy one that will do the job properly. As I said though, even with a skimmer you still need appropriate water changes and must be mindful of the watse producing bio-load. Having a skimmer will not really change that.
