Recent content by TheXevv

Thank you. That is good to know. Sent from my SM-G900V using Aquarium Advice mobile app

I have another question, this time it's about platys. When I was at the local pet stores, they all had Dalmatian Platys. I can't seem to find them on the aqAdvisor. I really like them. Are they a new genetically engineered fish like the Glofish?

Not new to owning an aquarium, just been away for 9 years. I just haven't had to cycle a tank in many years. I took a break from my aquariums after my Iridescent sharks died. My kids were very young and took all my time, so I decided to wait until they got older. My sharks did live 15 years and...

I did a lot of running and getting prices of what I need for my aquarium. I'm at $260.56 for all but the fish and decorations. Are decorations necessary during the cycling process? I figured I could get those over a period of time while the tank is being cycled. Sent from my SM-G900V using...

Thank you everyone for your help. I hope to get started on getting my aquarium supplies soon. As of right now, I'm just doing research and looking for best prices for everything I need. Then I'll start putting money back to start buying the more expensive items. :fish2:

I don't have the aquarium set up at all. I tested water straight from the tap. I don't have an aquarium test kit yet. Just a pool test kit.

I tested the city water Hardness is 400 ppm PH is 8.4 Total Alkalinity is 240 ppm If it wasn't for our water softener it would be a lot harder I imagine.

I'll consider the otos. I should note, that I won't be getting them right away. But will at some point.

Is there anything I can do to soften the water? Maybe mixing some distilled water and ph down. I'll test my city water asap. I had to add PH down to my pool water at initial set up.

We're on city water, which is horrible to say the least. Very hard, very high alkalinity, as well as chlorinated. We have a whole house water softener just so our soaps actually sud up. Will this be a problem for aquarium use? I had to fight tooth and nail to soften it by adding water softener...

I'm thinking of going with silk type fake plants. I did have real plants long ago in an already established tank. I only used a fluorescent plant light made for aquariums. Unless you think real plants will be better? Sent from my SM-G900V using Aquarium Advice mobile app

I don't have any fish yet. I'm planning ahead for the fish I want. I have to buy filters, sand, etc. And cycle my aquarium first. All I have is my tank and stand. The only aquarium that has all but the chemicals is my 20 gallon. That will be for tiger barbs at a later date. Sent from my...

If the Boesemanis aren't a good idea, is there another fish that could work and is rainbow or brightly colored? I want colorful fish that are fun to watch. I do like cichilids, but I can't fit too many in a 55 and I could only have just those if I went with them. My kids each want to pick out...

Since I've been away from the hobby for 9 years. What chemicals am I going to need for my aquarium? I don't want to buy anything that is unnecessary. I do know that a master test kit is a must. I just recently threw away all my very expired chemicals. Some of which, I'm don't think are made...

I never thought about using blasting sand. My husband has some, but I don't think it's enough to cover the bottom of a 55 gallon tank. I also don't want to use black. I was thinking of a more natural sand look. My 20 gallon tank has natural colored gravel. They aren't pea sized, but also not...