Brian_Nano12g
Aquarium Advice Addict
Hi guys,
So I finally got my Nano Cube 12 gallon deluxe from Dr. Fosters & Smith the other day. So far all I've done was set it up for freshwater and add the gravel and decor. I also added a 50w Marineland Stealth heater & Tetra Whisper air pump (which I also all got from Dr. Fosters & Smith for a great deal). So as I wait while my tank is in its cycling process, I've been thinking of some stuff to buy to maintain the health of the aquarium for its future inhabitants.
Aside from the basic water conditioning stuff that I have already, I found a master test kit available from Walmart (free shipping to in-store pick-up) for less than $18. The description doesn't mention what brand but the reviewers on there say it's an API test kit! I've seen these test kits at Petsmart and Petco for around $30! I'm going to order that kit from Walmart today! *Note: If you guys decide to get it from there too, there are 2 kinds listed (1 Tetra Laborett and the other has no brand indicated). However, I determined from the reviewers on both that the No Brand (which some say are API) include the test for Nitrate and the Tetra Laborett doesn't.
Here's the link: HERE
NOW, I NEED HELP WITH A FEW QUESTIONS:
1.) I read from the Nano Cube manual that I should change the sponge and activated carbon monthly. Do any of you with experience with Nano Cubes buy the OEM replacements (such as: link) or do you buy this stuff in bulk and cheaper somewhere else? If so, do you have to cut the sponges to fit correctly and add the carbon into the mesh bag? What are some methods and tips you can pass on for this?
2.) For managing PH levels, what product(s) do you recommend? I know that some of the fish I want are a bit finicky with PH levels so you're help will be appreciated.
3.) Recommendations for managing water softness or hardness?
Any and all input will be greatly appreciated
BTW, I posted a youtube vid of my new setup. If you want to check it out, please feel free. However, keep in mind, I know that the majority of Nano Cube / Bio Cube owners do not set their tank up like mine...LOL I'm for the real basic and simple-clean-look. Although I appreciate real plants and the more "natural" look with moss and not having an airstone, I in fact, like the non-messy fun look. So here it is, the newbie setup (btw, my girlfriend made the video so I didn't choose the song)... enjoy :
YouTube - My New Nano Cube 12 Gallon DX - Cycling Day 1
So I finally got my Nano Cube 12 gallon deluxe from Dr. Fosters & Smith the other day. So far all I've done was set it up for freshwater and add the gravel and decor. I also added a 50w Marineland Stealth heater & Tetra Whisper air pump (which I also all got from Dr. Fosters & Smith for a great deal). So as I wait while my tank is in its cycling process, I've been thinking of some stuff to buy to maintain the health of the aquarium for its future inhabitants.
Aside from the basic water conditioning stuff that I have already, I found a master test kit available from Walmart (free shipping to in-store pick-up) for less than $18. The description doesn't mention what brand but the reviewers on there say it's an API test kit! I've seen these test kits at Petsmart and Petco for around $30! I'm going to order that kit from Walmart today! *Note: If you guys decide to get it from there too, there are 2 kinds listed (1 Tetra Laborett and the other has no brand indicated). However, I determined from the reviewers on both that the No Brand (which some say are API) include the test for Nitrate and the Tetra Laborett doesn't.
Here's the link: HERE
NOW, I NEED HELP WITH A FEW QUESTIONS:
1.) I read from the Nano Cube manual that I should change the sponge and activated carbon monthly. Do any of you with experience with Nano Cubes buy the OEM replacements (such as: link) or do you buy this stuff in bulk and cheaper somewhere else? If so, do you have to cut the sponges to fit correctly and add the carbon into the mesh bag? What are some methods and tips you can pass on for this?
2.) For managing PH levels, what product(s) do you recommend? I know that some of the fish I want are a bit finicky with PH levels so you're help will be appreciated.
3.) Recommendations for managing water softness or hardness?
Any and all input will be greatly appreciated
BTW, I posted a youtube vid of my new setup. If you want to check it out, please feel free. However, keep in mind, I know that the majority of Nano Cube / Bio Cube owners do not set their tank up like mine...LOL I'm for the real basic and simple-clean-look. Although I appreciate real plants and the more "natural" look with moss and not having an airstone, I in fact, like the non-messy fun look. So here it is, the newbie setup (btw, my girlfriend made the video so I didn't choose the song)... enjoy :
YouTube - My New Nano Cube 12 Gallon DX - Cycling Day 1