AA’s, Demi’s. and mac's Tank Competition

[Demi ^_^]

AA's and Demi's Tank Competition!

AABatteries and I are going to have... A TANK COMPETITION!

We are both getting fish tanks on the 25th December (Christmaaasssssss!) So we decided to have a competition on who’s tank will look the best and compare notes and updates about our progress ;))

In my case, Christmas is tomorrow, so I will get a teeny-tiny-head-start in the competition... Well actually not really, because I haven’t got anything mapped out, where as good all Batteries has everything planned LOL

We hope to have heaps of fun with this competition and we both hope everyone enjoys reading about it too! <3

Merry Christmas everyone! :19:

[AABatteries]

Cool. If a would've made at this thread, it would've been about one paragraph. Good job Demi. thumbs2:
I'm going to post my plans in a few minutes.

[Demi ^_^]

Merry Christmas everyone!

Yup, in the great Aussie outback, it’s Christmas today!

I opened my biggest present... MY TANK!

I measured it LOL and it was about 85L! Yaayyy!
That’s about...erm...uhhh... 22 Gallons!

Its footprint is:

L = 30”
W = 12”
H = 14”

It is a really nice long tank! It came with a terrific wooden hood and stand, not to mention 2 filters, a 100-watt heater, a bucket full of gravel and 5 pieces of large dried-out coral.

Its such a lovely fish tank! Not a scratch or gouge to be seen, despite it being used before!

The gravel can be easily be mistaken for sand. The grains are tiny and cream in colour – it looks very cool! I have 2 pieces of coral in their at the moment and 3 small fake plants.

THE BAD NEWS:

I didn’t notice the gravel was embedded with millions of Malaysian Trumpet Snails UNTIL the gravel was in the tank... Before our eyes, each snail suddenly got up and started to move around the tank! CRAAAAAAAAAAPPPPPPPP! <crys>
Grr! Now I have millions of these ugly-disgusting MTS in my tank! They had not been in water for atleast a week! I need to figure out how to get them out <sobs>

Heres a piccie of my tank... It looks bad, but believe me lots of plans are being mapped out for this tank!

http://i39.tinypic.com/b4x150.png

[KingFisher]

Congratulations, Demi. I wouldn't worry too much about the snails, they help keep dead spots from forming in the substrate. Also, they will stay hidden for the most part when the lights are on. thumbs2: thumbs2: thumbs2:

[Demi ^_^]

Not these ones! They are all over the glass and make the tank look... ICKY! LOL

Besides, they don't appeal to me at ALL - Sorry to those MTS lovers LOL :)))

The water is still pretty cloudy, but the filter thats in there was seeded, so the tank should already be cycled - or almost anyway!

We plan to add a goldfish or two to carry on the cycle until we know what fish I want :)) Then when we are done with the Goldfish, the darlings will be released into an enclosed haven... in otehr words a nice huge pond with other goldfish! LOL

[AABatteries]

Awesome, now I don't have a head start with the seeded filter any more, but I have the water.

[Demi ^_^]

Awesome, now I don't have a head start with the seeded filter any more, but I have the water.

Hehehehehehehe :))))) You have the advantage of not having millions of MTS to pick out! LOL

Believe me if I ahd of known the filter was seeded I would have warned you LOL :hmm3grin2orange: :hmm3grin2orange:

[Northernguy]

Merry Christmas Demi !:sock:
Its a beautiful tank!:22:

[Rue]

Have fun setting up your new tank!

Looking forward to more pictures...

[AABatteries]

Hehehehehehehe :))))) You have the advantage of not having millions of MTS to pick out! LOL

Believe me if I ahd of known the filter was seeded I would have warned you LOL :hmm3grin2orange: :hmm3grin2orange:

I'd love to have some of those snails. :19:
So far for Christmas I've a $1000 computer, so did SpaceBison. And we got Rock Band 2. Later comes the fish tank. And some other stuff.

[AABatteries]

Okay, guess I'll post my "final" plans for the tank.

Equipment
================
Lighting: 2x39w t5
Filter: Whisper 60
Heater: 100w
CO2: DIY system
Thermometer: Glass in-tank (plan to get a digital one someday)

Stock
=================

1 gold gourami
1 blue gourami
10-15 cardinal tetras
3-5 corys of some sort (probably panda or Agassizi)
3 ottos
1 female betta (maybe)

Misc. + Plants
=================

Substrate: Eco-Complete
Plants: 2 Amazon swords, 3 Java ferns, Java moss, & a 12 plant pack from http://aquariumplants.com

[AABatteries]

Okay, got my tank set-up. Had a few problems setting it up. The injured blue tetra didn't make it. I spilled a bucket of water on the floor. Other than that it's doing great. Really no purpose to take a pic, the water is cloudy. It should be cleared up in an hour or so. I'll take some pics then.

[Raven43]

This competition is really interesting. I love seeing how you guys are doing this step by step.

[AABatteries]

Think I'm going to take a pic and see how it turns out.

[Demi ^_^]

Okay, got my tank set-up. Had a few problems setting it up. The injured blue tetra didn't make it. I spilled a bucket of water on the floor. Other than that it's doing great. Really no purpose to take a pic, the water is cloudy. It should be cleared up in an hour or so. I'll take some pics then.

<grins> You are SO lucky! You have everything organised! LOL

We rang the LFS today in hopes of getting that goldfish or 2 to get the cycle continuing... but NOOOOOOOOO! <scowls> My LFS decided boxing day is a holiday! LOL

The snails are everywhere, I am really getting annoyed with them!

The water in my tank is still cloudy :(( Tomorrow we definately should be going to the LFS <grins>

My stocking idea sooo faaaarrrrr:

2 Bolivian Rams
12 Rummynoses
7 Panda Corys

:1luvu:

[AABatteries]

My water is pretty much all clear now, only took a matter of hours, you'll see it in the pics.

First up, the old 20g tank...
http://img503.imageshack.us/img503/4549/20g30g009cn2.jpg

http://img237.imageshack.us/img237/4375/20g30g010yw1.jpg

[Demi ^_^]

Yaaayyyy PICS!

BTW everyone, me and AA's have agreed that round 1 will end on 25th Febuary 2009! XD

[AABatteries]

The new...

http://img237.imageshack.us/img237/2031/20g30g003ao2.jpg

http://img237.imageshack.us/img237/5314/20g30g005dy8.jpg

http://img503.imageshack.us/img503/7639/20g30g006gz6.jpg

http://img503.imageshack.us/img503/5258/20g30g007ic5.jpg

That's all for now, all the residents are shown. The big sword in the recent pics is actually the tall and less 'filled' one in the other pics. And the one in not, so, good shape in front of it is the one that was short and 'full'. I'll be taking pics every day or so. I can only have 4 pics so, the FTS will have to wait, once I get replies from 3 different people it will be posted. xD

[AABatteries]

Parameters
________________________
pH: 7.0
Nitrate: 5.0
Ammonia: 0.25
Nitrite: 0

[AABatteries]

Okay, 2 different replies now!

[Demi ^_^]

Wow, nice healthy fish AA!

[AABatteries]

Thanks, and one more reply from somebody but me or Demi.
EDIT: Going to look for some plants tomorrow, getting a dwarf hairgrass, for sure. I'll probably get my corys in a week or so.

[Raven43]

So, what's your next step?

[AABatteries]

YAY!!! We have a 2nd post, that gets us a full tank shot(FTS)!!!

http://img387.imageshack.us/img387/3884/20g30g002oc5.jpg

My plans for the next month or so.(listed in priority)

#1 - More plants
#2 - Get a small school of corys
#3 - Make DIY CO2 system
#4 - More plants xD

[Demi ^_^]

I need the whole deal LOL

I need to (Not in order!):

- Replace 2 fake plants with real plants (Elodea Densa/etc)
- Find a nice piece of driftwood
- Buy fish
- Find away to kick out the Malaysion Trumpet Snails
- Buy a thermometre
- Find some nice flat rocks (Aquascaping plan!)
- Fix up background

I think thats what I need to do... Or thats all I can think of at the moment anyways!

[AABatteries]

&#176;_&#176; Elodea, thats the floating plant in my tank, well what's left of the original. The rest of it up-rooted and disinigrated.

I can get my drift wood for free. xD Got a river/stream near my house, with tons of driftwood. Hey, I could make a business out of selling that stuff. xD

[Demi ^_^]

I too, am lucky in the driftwood-thing :D We have alot of local dams/bushes/streams full of the stuff! I just need to look for that perfect piece!

[AABatteries]

Same here, everything good requires going in knee deep in freezing cold water. And it is actual freezing.

[wolf_eyes]

Nice looking tanks you two! I can't wait to see them grow

[AABatteries]

Thanks, hopefully I'll be allowed to make my tank "grow" tomorrow, as in my parents will take me to get more plants. xD

[Demi ^_^]

The icky snails I hand-picked from the tank:

http://i43.tinypic.com/5zfjet.jpg

I disrupted the whole tank and made it all cloudy again during the operation :(((((

And this is how desperate I am:

http://i43.tinypic.com/2itmq2v.png

YUP! So desperate I have lettuce and cucumber in my tank – in the hopes the snails will attach themselves to the vegetation so I can re-locate them!

[labnjab]

I got about 200 of those in my 55, their great for moving the substrate and eating any excess food, but I'm gonna start trying to reduce the population, cut them down to maybe 100, lol

[AABatteries]

I need some!!! Lol.

[labnjab]

The funny thing is I put 10 in my 55 goldfish on purpose and 10 in my 55 community on purpose to aerate the sand , and the community has well over 200 now and the goldfish has maybe 10 or 15, and this is after 6 months. I don't know why there are some many in one tank and not the other

[AABatteries]

Maybe one's water condition was right for them to breed?

[mac]

Hi Demi and AA.

Nice idea to have a comp. I might to that if I had some one to do it with. But mind you I will be getting the tank in January. So I need to have some to compete with at that time.

As for the snails sorry to here about them. They are a real pain.

Good luck.

mac

[AABatteries]

Or you could join it. xD

[mac]

Or you could join it. xD

You mean join you guys?
If so then okay. I will jump on board.

Lets think. No tank yet. But I have plans already set up. And I have various components all ready gather together.

Thank you very much for letting me to join. I am a bit busy right now so I will be spermatic right now, just doing things around the house. I will post some things soon about my plants.

Cheers,
mac

[Demi ^_^]

Yaaaayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy! This is gunna be even more fun!

I'll PM a mod to see if we can change the title :)))

[gm72]

Done for you!

[mac]

Thank you Demi and Gm72.

Much appraised. I will start Post if i can tonight and tomorrow. Which is my Birthday so I will have some spare time I hope, because I am resting from a 80 km walk and doing large amounts os driving, and sifting of gravel to get my sand for my 100 gallon tank, plus I am working tomorrow afternoon.

mac

[Cameron]

Nice idea, and thread guys its gonna be hard for my thread to keep up :( Oh well yours is probably more interesting and funner to read along.. GO CHRISTMAS TANKS!

[AABatteries]

Okay, just came back home with some dwarf hairgrass, a rotala indica, and a lloydia. (Or least I think those are the names.) I'll get pictures soon.

EDIT: It's not rotala indica, I actually think it's moneywort. And idk about the lloydia, I think it was mis-labeled too. I'll probably need some help identifying it.

[AABatteries]

Here are today's pics...

FTS
http://img220.imageshack.us/img220/9078/30g001th3.jpg

Left, with the new plant. The mystery plant is the one on the far left that is sorta purple. Could anyone identify it for me?
http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/7263/30g004rr7.jpg

Middle, if you noticed, the rock in the middle that is leaning on the other rock is now completely covered with green algae, IMO it looks cool, as long as it stays there and not everywhere else. Other than the algae, nothing new here.
http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/2162/30g005wu2.jpg

Right, the dwarf hairgrass and moneywort are the 2 new things for this side.
http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/1815/30g006iq2.jpg

[Demi ^_^]

Wow! AA the tank is looking great!

Its soooooooo unfair LOL, I can't go to the LFS until tomorrow because my dad, his mate, my brother and his friend are out fishing in the tinny :P I wish I could have gone - but nada - not enough room in the good-ol-tinny. I wish he could've gone fishing in the big boat - then I could have come!

<grins> Good news for me though! All cloudiness gone! The tanks water is crystal-clear and the tank is looking brilliant!

I am still sick of those darn snails... <grumbles> :14:

[wolf_eyes]

I could be wrong but the purple/green plant looks like wendtii crypt, maybe the red version?

edit: Might also be a red temple.... I'm going to plant geek to figure it out lol

[mac]

Hi guys,

Right now I have a few minuets of time spare to write up my info on the tank.

The tank is going to be 100 gallons. 48 inches x 20 inches x 24 inches.
Now I deiced to change the size of the tank from a normal size 100 gallon. The reason is I want to make it more of a deep tank with logs and rocky caves for the Loaches. But have some length and width for the Rainbow fish.


So far I have the filters all ready for the tank. The same with the Lighting. And again the same with the Plants. The plants I will be having in the tank are Giant Hygro Crypts as many types as i can find, Java Fern, and Anubis.

As for the fish I have 7 Lake Kutubu Rainbows, 4 Golden Zebra Loaches, Kulie Loaches, and a Red-Tail Shark. As for some of these fish I may be re-homing some. Just not to sure about what to do with the stocking.

Right now I am planing on what to stock the tank with. I want to do a tank with fish from only Asia. But as for the planting I don't care where the plants are from.

Well when I was holday only yesterday I managed to get this sand from one of the lakes.

http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/images/tb_upload/2306.jpg (http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/view/2306/)

It is very fine grade. Very fine grade. And it is free.

http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/images/tb_upload/2307.jpg (http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/view/2307/)


Well that is all for now. I will do a up-date with better and further particulars about my plans soon.

Cheers,
mac

[Demi ^_^]

Sounds great Mac!

My stocking list has changed a bit, but I am still not definate... It seems all these fish stick to the bottom of the tank, but oh well!

2 Bolivians
5-6 Kuhli Loaches
10-12 Rummy-nose Tetras

I think the above should do well, as I have a great filter and plan on doing 50% weekly W/C's!

[cer]

AA Batteries tank is beast!

[mac]

Sounds great Mac!

Thank you.


My stocking list has changed a bit, but I am still not definate... It seems all these fish stick to the bottom of the tank, but oh well!

2 Bolivians
5-6 Kuhli Loaches
10-12 Rummy-nose Tetras

I see no trouble with your stocking list. What I would do though is change the Rummy Nose to the ones I suggested to you in the Tetra section. The Glass-fin Tetras seem to hang more around the mid to top section of the tank.

And in a school are quite nice to watch.


I think the above should do well, as I have a great filter and plan on doing 50% weekly W/C's!

I see no trouble at all.

mac

[mac]

Your tank looks great AA.

And sorry about your snails Demi.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

AA Batteries tank is beast!

If you mean best, I must agree!

But you wait, AA! I am going to the LFS tomorrow, so hopefully my tank will look awsome when I get back and start creating!

BTW Mac doesn't have his tank yet and already has some mean ideas - so I am looking forward to that tank and that competition!

EDIT: Thanks Mac! I am off to research now!

[AABatteries]

If you mean best, I must agree!

But you wait, AA! I am going to the LFS tomorrow, so hopefully my tank will look awsome when I get back and start creating!

BTW Mac doesn't have his tank yet and already has some mean ideas - so I am looking forward to that tank and that competition!

EDIT: Thanks Mac! I am off to research now!

=D My tank shall win!

Also, mac, you're so lucky, getting a 100g tank. I'm jealous.

[mac]

=D My tank shall win!

Also, mac, you're so lucky, getting a 100g tank. I'm jealous.

Don't be jealous.

IMO and IME the bigger the tank the harder they are to land scape. I have no trouble doing 18 gallons - 30 gallon tanks. But with larger tanks I have trouble.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

More recent pics:

http://i41.tinypic.com/2ypf504.png

http://i44.tinypic.com/rhu07s.png

http://i42.tinypic.com/10fqctf.png


Grrrrr... Darn snails!

[mac]

Just a question Demi,

Are you going to have this tank planted or not? Just wondering?

IMO and IME the snails can be a nice pain in the neck. But given time and some carful thinking you can get the problem solved.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

I don't know yet..

Maybe lightly planted with Elodea Densa and other easy plants..

[mac]

I don't know yet..

Maybe lightly planted with Elodea Densa and other easy plants..

IMO and IME I find that planted tanks are great to look after.

The plants help to keep some of the toxic waster down.

Edit: Just a quick look at the pics. I would vacuum the snail ups.

mac

[AABatteries]

Tank looks good Demi.

[mac]

Both your tanks look great AA and Demi. This will be a tuff comp.

I can't wait till my tank comes. Right now I have to get everything ready.

Well at least I wont have to wait to long.

Can't wait till I can properly join in.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

LOL, believe me Mac, by the time you get your tank, I'll still be clueless about my plans! LOL

No permanent fish for me until I definately know what I want!

I think I am doing pretty well with the snails.. I am actually beginning to see less..

My little brother now has pet snails <sighs> Yup, he badly wanted them as pets (Hes 4yrs old BTW!) So he cleaned a plastic 1g goldfish bowl and I gave him some colourful stones/gravel that I had on hand. He picked 3 snails from my tank LOL He now has them in his room and he is very happy with himself LOL

I probably picked out another 2 dozen while giving my bro the 3, so I am starting to feel confident that I may get most of them out..

[AABatteries]

You should leave just a few. =]

[Demi ^_^]

A few becomes a million quite quickly though LOL

I probably will have to though and just pick them out when I can! I don't think I can possibly get every one out by my hands!

[AABatteries]

Lol. You could, with... lots of time on yours hands. xD Horrible pun. Lol.

[mac]

As for set plans. They can be easy to create. But they can be hard at the same time.

All I do is work out the fish I like. The work out the requirements. The work ou were they are from. Then try to just get the fish from a certain place with the same Requirements.


That is why I have Rainbow fish and Loaches plus a Shark on my list with the SAE. The reason is they are mostly river fish.

IMO I would just split your fish up in two ways. South American or Asian. The decide which ones are better. But the is my way of doing things. I have learnt that Asian fish mixed with South or North American fish don't look right. That is why I tend to try and get my fish to come from a one place or places close to each-other.


mac

[AABatteries]

In the tank right now, I have Asian and South American, and they look great together. =]

[Demi ^_^]

I am still unsure on my stocking - I keep changing my mind!

Yesterday, went to the LFS. Bought a thermometre, aquatic salt and 5 feeder goldfish for the 22g tank. My little brother, Ned, (4yrs old) badly wanted a goldfish to go with his pet snails (This is in the tiny 1gallon!) So mum, not thinking correctly, let Ned choose a fancy goldfish.

He chose a stunning one, I must admit! A beautiful rosy gold one with a wide black stripe, going down his head to his tail like a mohauk. Ned called him "Spike"

As soon as they came out of the shop with the little one, I explained to mum on the way home how big they get <sigh>

The feeder goldfish are going to go into the dam/pond out the back with other feeder goldfish that I had in the 42g, when I figure out what fish I want.

Spike is also in the 22g, but he will be going to our neighbour, who has a large nice pond full of fancy goldfish - She hasn't got one like Spike, so she will be thrilled!

___________________________

Last night, Both pairs of Angels in the 42g decided they would spawn. The sharks got a huge beating, and I ended up having to net them out and put them in the 22g too <sigh>


Yes! I know I am an idiot for adding so many fish at once.. I'll just have to keep a good eye on the tank <crys>

[Demi ^_^]

You can't tell I am stressed out, can you? LOL <grins>

[AABatteries]

Any pictures? BTW using feeder goldfish to cycle isn't the best idea, they have a higher chance of bringing disease into your tank.

[mac]

Hi,
I agree that feeder gold fish can bring trouble to your tank.

But I guess it dose depend on the supplyer and his fish stock to the quality of the fish.

Hope all goes well.

IMO Demi I think I am more stressed than you right now.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

Nope, its alright. Even the feeders are well-cared for at the LFS.

They are all healthy and sleek :))

Happy Birthday to me today! I am off to go tubing and skiing! SEE YAS!

[mac]

The 100 gallon is finished. I shall be picking it up ASAP.

Now all my troubles start.:18:

Great news that all is good for you feeders. Hope all goes well.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

Thanks Mac and terrific news that the 100g is finished!

We are going to a huge dam here today to go tubing, skiing and knee-boarding! Hopefulyl I'll find a nice piece of driftwood or something ;)

[mac]

Thanks Mac and terrific news that the 100g is finished!

Thanks


We are going to a huge dam here today to go tubing, skiing and knee-boarding! Hopefulyl I'll find a nice piece of driftwood or something ;)

Man that would be fun. Hope you have fun. And good luck finding your wood.
It is amazing what you can find.

Just thinking I have not done any water sports like that for about 8-9 years.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

I am really lucky LOL my dad has a tinny and nice big fishing boat. Its a hot ay today, so its going to be awsome!

[AABatteries]

Have fun! =]

[mac]

The temp has hit 30'c. And I can't stand it. It is just hot. So have fun and enjoy the water.

Well I could not get mum to give me the keys to the station wagon. So I will have to get the 100 gallon tomorrow.

Well my trouble is to sort out my ferts and things like that for my tank.

mac

[mac]

Hi,
Here is some pics of my 100 gallon tank. I have just deiced to get a new tank stand made for it. I will be having a tank stand so it can take two tanks. One on top one on the bottom.


http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/images/tb_upload/2317.jpg (http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/view/2317/)

http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/images/tb_upload/2318.jpg (http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/view/2318/)

http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/images/tb_upload/2319.jpg (http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/view/2319/)

The tank is 4ft long, 20 inches wide 2ft tall.
A odd shape. But it will fit my angel. And the Rainbows get more room to swim, a extra 1ft.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

Wow mac! Its lovely!

Nothing new for me today. Still fish-deciding LOL

ATM I am DECIDING on plants hehe

[AABatteries]

Should've posted this 2 days ago, but I got 3 corys in the tank now. They're so cute, I'll have to try to get some pics of them. =]

[mac]

AA the Corys sound great.

Well I may have to get your opinions on this. I am doing a 50 gallon Fire Mouth Cichlid Breeding tank.

So what should I do. Should we have the comp for me with the 100 or the 50? They are going to both be planted, and set up to look good. Also I will be adding some Panda Corys that I have in one of my tanks. So I am not sure what to do. So could you guys choose which tank I will do for the comp?

Cheers,
mac

[Demi ^_^]

Ooohhh! Mac I am no good at choosing - I can hardly decide on my own tank!

But I think the 100g would be better, I have been looking forward to the Rainbows ;)

My tank is doing great. Goldfish are nice and plump, 3 live plants have been added (from a dam, mind you!) I hope the floating plant thrives because it has lovely long roots that the fish love!

[mac]

Okay the 100 it is. I may do a thread my self with my 50 gallon Tanganyika tank.

Great all is well with your tank. Do you have duck weed as a floating plant? I have not had trouble with it. But it can spread very fast. So you do need to keep it in check.

mac

[MCHRKiller]

Lovely tank mac! Your 100G has the same dimmensions as mine...I wish mine didnt have a thick trim tho it makes it look shorter seeing how tall yours looks without trim.

[mac]

Lovely tank mac! Your 100G has the same dimmensions as mine...I wish mine didnt have a thick trim tho it makes it look shorter seeing how tall yours looks without trim.

Thanks mate.
It was amazing when I got it made. The Glazier said I think I know what you mean in your plan and well the proof is in the pudding. I say a well worth $360.00 NZ.

It is quite a odd shape I know. I should have gone 5+ ft for the Rainbows but I thought width for the Loaches hight for the Angel and a extra 1 ft for the Rainbows.

Well I can't wait till dad builds the stand. Not only one stand there is going to be two stands. One taking 3 tanks which I am going to set up soon.

Well must get back to acclimatizing my new Tanganyika Cichlids.

mac

[MCHRKiller]

Not to odd of a shape...its a standard Tenecor 100G size :) I know the excitement of getting a new large tank...heck Im having a time just thinking about buying a new larger tank. Alas it wouldnt make the switchback of my stairway or fit threw my bedroom door.

[mac]

Sorry to here about your problem. maybe you might want to make your own tank in the place it will be going?

mac

[MCHRKiller]

No point really Ill be leave my parents posh living space theyve provided me with for 23 years in the next year or two:14: But I am excited to see how your tank comes along...it should end up looking fabulous!

[mac]

Well I am going to try my best.

Thanks mate.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

Darn, alot of cr#p is going on with the 42g ATM that I can't really focuss on the 22g.

Hopefully have a home for the 2 Balas at a mates house, Glowlights might go their too. So if all goes well, things will go better for me their...

Both pairs of Angels are spawning like crazy and are showing the first strokes of aggressivness.. Although I may leave it a bit, just to see if things get better with them...

Tomorrow I need to do a W/C and need to buy a sponge to try and mop up some of the algae of the tank sides and I also need to clean the gravel because it is full of gunk, poop and debris! <sigh>

__________________________________________________ _______________

Still thinking about stocking for 22g... Hopefully things clear up with the 42g so I can focuss more LOL

[AABatteries]

New plants!!! YAY!!!

Just got back from the LPS. Got an anubis and some baby tears. I stirred up the substrate a bit putting them in, so I'll take a pic in an hour or so. I think I need to stop getting plants, or I'm going to run out of room for them when they grew. Although there is one more plant I'm on the look out for, Red Ludwigia.

[AABatteries]

I'm at school right, now. But anyways, shortly after school I'm going to get some more cardinals from the LFS. I'll take a picture then.

[Crispy]

Nice tanks and competition all! Can't wait to see the finals!

Demi> most loaches can take care of that snail population.

[AABatteries]

Okay, just got back from the LFS with 6 more cardinals, I plan to get 5 more and I'm done with the fish stocking. I'll get some pics after they brighten up.

[Demi ^_^]

Sorry guys..

I am really letting this competition down!

You see, heres an update..

OK well, Copper and Grace (1 of my Angelfish couples) in the 42g have been seriously picking on Bonnie and Blade [other couple]

Today, I noticed that their fins were terribly frayed and they were so unhappy..

I ended up, fishing out the goldfish from the 22g and letting them go in the pond/dam and then scooping up my injured Angels into the 22g..

I have turned of the ligth and added salt to that tank in hopes they won't be to stressed and their fins will soon mend..

They look so scraggly and unhealthy ATM :(( I am sooo upset!

Cooper and Grace look like tehy are ready to spawn in the 42g again and I ain't very happy with them because before these last few days, my Angels have never really been aggressive... Grrr <groans>

<sigh> So yup, thats right... No plants and no planning for stocking, so sorry guys! I just have to focus on the fish I have ATM instead of planning for news ones, when things aren't going great! Fish before my wants, so hopefully in a few days I'll sort something out ;)))

Till then! Wish me luck Bonnie and Blade will come through!

[mac]

Don't worry the comp in not going down with out you. We all have been away by the look of it.

Great news from you all.


As for me. I have my 50 Tanganyika tank waiting to till the 50 is free. Then I can set up the 100 gallon. Boy I can't wait till dad builds the stand.

mac

[AABatteries]

I haven't been away just waiting, I'm going to upload the pic(s) soon.

[AABatteries]

Ughhhh... I managed to lose track of the camera. Hopefully I can find it.

[Poofaye C.]

So what does the winner get besides bragging rights?

Great thread and comp. guys!

[AABatteries]

So what does the winner get besides bragging rights?

Great thread and comp. guys!

I'm not sure. :hmm3grin2orange: Maybe a present and some points.

[mac]

From me the winner will get a 1000 points. Ohh and because my tank is 100 gallons, I will get you all to handy cap me. Ohh and I don't know how this will work but can a poll be added in to this, when it comes time to see who is the winner?

So news of my tank. The Giant Hygro which I am cultivating is growing great. Not a problem. It has doubled since I started trimming it.

As for the sand I have tested it in a tank with fish, and it looks great. The Catfish love it, and it is very easy to clean. So that is one nice free thing for my tank.

The wood is sitting out side waiting for the tank. I will take some pics of it soon.

Well hope all is coming along with your tanks?

mac

[Demi ^_^]

Yup, poll should be added at the end ;))

I am starting to plan again what I want...

Bonnie and Blade are looking a bit better in the 22g as are the Balas...

Don't have much news... Just thinking about what to do with the otehr pair of Angels... Once they look better, I may add them to the 42g and heavily plant it so both pairs of Angels get lovely green plants and territories... Hmm.. Will have to think..

What do you guys think?

[Demi ^_^]

Bonnie and Blade's fins' are starting to look much better - salt works a-trick! :19:

Should be going to LFS today or Wednesday, more likely Wednesday.. Gunna look at the fish and start buying plants XD I need to get these Angels back in the 42g if all goes well when they look better..

[SamAnthrax]

When are we going to see pics :)

[AABatteries]

When are we going to see pics :)
Whenever I find the camera. :hmm3grin2orange:

[mac]

As for pics with me no go really. I can only post pics for the empty tank, and plants wood gravel that is all. Nothing set up in the tank.

Dad has just bought a new Holden so he busy with that so I will take some time to get the stand made. O well it will be free anyway.

I must get some pics up of what I have. Please pm pm pm till I get them up.
Just finding time. As it is in February I wont be on the forum for about 6 months then I am in a apprenticeship which will mean I can be on here a bit more offend.

Well must go and tinker with my tanks.

mac

[AABatteries]

Update!

Yesterday I got a female betta. She has a white body with red fins. And the fins have a little pruple to them. I'll try to get a pic of her whenever I locate the camera. I just found her sleeping on one of the leaves floating around the tank.

[mac]

Sounds nice. Female Bettas are something to keep. And very well worth it.

Looking forward to the pics of it.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

Sounds great AA!

More crud going on with the 22g... LOL

Last night noticed that the seeded filter that was in their had totally screwed up LOL. Their was like, mould or something all over it and nothing was getting sucked up properly...

It is supposed to filter 550L P/H..

So I added the 2nd filter I got with the 22g, its not seeded though..

Pushed it in and it is doing a great job (*****/star rating LOL)

I really need help because I don't know if the cycle is crapped up or anything..

I have the filter that ain't working properly in their still anyway, so the bacteria is still ok... I don't know how this is gunna do though..

I'll go ask a question in the technical forum to see if I can get some quick answers LOL

OHH and BTW the filter that is now in their too filters 200L P/H and it is a 85L tank..

[mac]

Sorry about you problem Dmei.

To me it sound kind of like you have a kind of algae bloom, or more spores.

How long has the tank been set up? Depending you may have a good amount of cycling done.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

Ok, I am starting to get my planned stocking down and stuff! Yaaayyy!

I wish the person who is to obtain my Balas would be back from holiday soon! I just can't wait until I can totally get my hands in their, without the sharks running around in a mad panic :)

I think I am gunna do:

-Pair of GBR's
-12x Rummynose
-7x Panda Corys
-2x BN's (A female and male - only IF a friend of mine wants to give them away)

[mac]

Sounds like a good stocking plan Demi.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

Thanks Mac!

If I DO get the Bristlenoses, I will get them before anything else.. It would be LOVELY if they bred! It costs 18 bucks each for a teeny-tiny one here!

[mac]

Thanks Mac!

If I DO get the Bristlenoses, I will get them before anything else.. It would be LOVELY if they bred! It costs 18 bucks each for a teeny-tiny one here!

That sounds good.
They cost about 15.00 here. We get lot's of home breeders supplying here.

mac

[AABatteries]

I've never seen a BR around here, but I've never really looked. :hmm3grin2orange:

Anyways right now the stocking is:
1 gold gourami
1 blue gourami
1 female betta
15 cardinal tetras
3 juli corys
1 pleco

I plan on getting 2 or 3 more corys, unless I can find a new home for the pleco.

And here are the most recent pics...
http://img369.imageshack.us/img369/8886/30g11309yd8.jpg
http://img407.imageshack.us/img407/3842/ss851431vr8.jpg

[Crispy]

Demi> I like your stocking ideas. Sounds like a nice showpiece when it's done. You better step it up against these guys and show 'em what you can do!!
AABatteries> tank is coming along great! Looks like you're the one setting the bar here!

[Demi ^_^]

Beautiful AA!

Don't worry Crispy, I'll teach these 2 guys a lesson LOL

Getting ready to add live plants and lots of plants are being developed! Unfortunately my mum is quite sick with a virus ATM, so no LFS trips as of today :(((

[Demi ^_^]

Oh! And BTW I setup my 100L pond! It is full of lovely river round rocks :))

I just have to add a female and male guppy to get a colony started LOL! I hope the rocks grow a lovely crop of that lush green algae! If they do, they will be added to the tank ;)

[mac]

Beautiful AA!

Don't worry Crispy, I'll teach these 2 guys a lesson LOL

Getting ready to add live plants and lots of plants are being developed! Unfortunately my mum is quite sick with a virus ATM, so no LFS trips as of today :(((

Looks great AA.

And Demi, challenge accepted. Looks like I will have to do my best. Were is the that Takashi Amano web site.

So far I have grow my plants up, so it wont be long. And so far dad is still playing with his new Holden. So it will apparently be only a week till I have the tank stand started on. Well fingers crossed.

My Stocking has not changed. I am planning to still get about 5-7 SAEs. 1 Angle. 15 Kutubus, and 7 Golden Zebra Loaches, 1 RTS.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

Sounds great Mac! SAE's are gorgeous <grins>

I am starting to plan my aquascape, lot of ideas in my head LOL

[Demi ^_^]

Ok, working out some of my plans..

I really want my tank to be.. well... unique LOL.. Different. Unusual...

So here are some of my ideas that were developed from my own head:


Ok, I have decided that the focal point will be between the middle and the left side of the tank, so I am planning to creat a hill with the gravel. The hill will be towards the back.

Here is a silly idea of what I mean LOL

http://i41.tinypic.com/2wh1g7q.png

On the 'hill' I am planning to add an array of different sized river rocks, 2 really large ones, 5 smaller ones, and countless tiny ones to creat a rocky region and caves for my planning GBR's.

Then for the plants so far.. I want to have an Amazon Sword behind the rockwork for some extra cover for the GBR's :)) The left side is basically aquascaped, except I plan to find some sort of floating plant to - again give theGBR's more coverage and security..

Well, thats basically my idea for now.. I am not really wanting to look at other tanks for inspiration, because... well. I want this to be out of my own imagination LOL - I want to be able to say that "I did this and it came out of my mind" with pride in knowing I'd done so :)))

I am a wacky gal, I know LOL

[AABatteries]

Thanks everyone. Nothing much will be changing for a while. Just letting the plants grow out. If I see a red ludwigia in GOOD condition I'll probably buy it. The LFS had one that was practically all green and wasn't very "full." If it was better than that, I would've bought it in a heartbeat.

And Demi with those swords be sure to have root tabs or a plant substrate. Seachem Flourish Tabs are what I use. Swords are heavy root feeders and those will provide them with the nutrients they need.

[mac]

Demi I do agree with AA that you will need some form of plant ferts for your Swords.

Mine never grew with out the ferts, and interesting with the ferts they never grew. But in my Libary tank with no ferts they grew great.

As for plants on the hill you are making I would suggest some Anubis. It makes all rock work look great.

Great your tank is settling in and is going well AA.

Mine stand is just around the bend. Dad is starting on in very soon.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

Waaaaaaahhhoooo!

I removed the coral and fake plants, fixed up the filters and made my substrate into the shape I want to!

I love the look of it!


I went out to the bush this morning, intending to find some rounded river rocks from the creek, but didn't find any worthy :((( I may just use the ones that are outside my yard..

\Piccies soon.. :)))

[Demi ^_^]

Piccies:

http://i44.tinypic.com/1z4zx2e.png

http://i39.tinypic.com/oko5jd.png

Really drab ATM, but as soon as I get the rocks, it'll start looking better ;)

[Heliwyr]

Demi, I want you to know your design inspired me this morning. So, thanks. I didn't use your design, but it gave me the initiative to gather images and compile them. :)

I think it's an awesome idea, by the way.

[AABatteries]

Looks great. [= Looks like a plain emtpy tank you'd find a large chain store. I like plain tanks, makes fish stand out.

[fishbum]

I like the hill idea Demi,but how do you plan on keeping it from settling flat?

[Demi ^_^]

Thanks Heliwyr! I feel all fluffy and warm now :11: LOL

Don't worry AA, won't be empty for long!

I played around with the gravel again, so its cloudy again LOL, but the hill is much more pronounced now and I have used the effect of it sloping down from the back to front with the gravel.

I found some rocks outside. 4 very beautiful, very rounded small-medium rocks (I was very careful to vhoose rocks that I knew the fish wouldn't be scratched on!) and 1 larger, flat rock.. All different shades of browny-cream and all different sizes, so they will look very natural..

Still need to find a larger rockj to put on the Left side of the hill to create a focal point..

Post pics when the water clears up and I add the rocks ;))

[Demi ^_^]

I like the hill idea Demi,but how do you plan on keeping it from settling flat?

I'll find away LOL, it is staying put very well ATM :))

Thanks for the compliments guys - I love art and I am quite the arty person, so I like to make different and original effects :11:

[Demi ^_^]

This is not how I exacly want the rocks to be, I still have to add some smaller ones...

http://i40.tinypic.com/350kmy1.png

The larger rock besides the small ones is for the GBR's, as I have read they like to have a largish flat rock to spawn on..

I am off to find my dream large rock again to complete the look on the hill!

[AABatteries]

You should make it look like volcano with a red plant on the top. But I don't know if any red plant would do well under your lighting.

[Demi ^_^]

LOL AA, naahh, my light is too weak hehe

I want to get that huge rock and stick it on the left side of the hill - so it kinda 'sticks out'

No luck with finding the big rock though <sighs>

Might need to trek around the country side tomorrow, looking for that perfect rock :))))

I NEED that rock LOL, its going to be my focal point! :))))
I hope the rocks get a bit of that gorgeous green algae on them <bliss>

[Demi ^_^]

Found a piece of petrified wood and a large rock..

http://i44.tinypic.com/5e74hy.png

http://i41.tinypic.com/mslvk8.jpg

[Crispy]

demi> good to see your tank is finally coming around! Nice shots... love the balas!

[AABatteries]

Looks better, the right side looks a little plain yet.

[Demi ^_^]

Since the last photo I have changed it a fair bit.

I took away the rounded rocks because they looked like playdough to me LOL

New pics soon!

[mac]

You idea is looking great as it is.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

http://i42.tinypic.com/avipmr.png

http://i41.tinypic.com/2z6gj95.png

[cocoa_pleco]

looks awesome!!!!

[Demi ^_^]

Thanks Cocoa! I still have to find a few more things for my hardscape, but yup, this is a good start!

The driftwood on the right is going to have Lace Fern tied onto it..

I may be getting fish very soon - I think I am going to start with the Rummynoses, because Pandas are too hard to find ATM :)))

[mac]

Looks great. Interesting contrast with the rocks and the sand. Looks great. Nice clear pics.

mac

[AABatteries]

Looking good, and I see what you mean by the rocks that look like play-doh. LOL. When you planning on getting the balas to harls brother?

[Demi ^_^]

Thanks guys!!!

And AA, still don't know, he keeps changing his mind <sigh> I think I am going to try another LFS...

Recent piccies:

http://i43.tinypic.com/t4uzw7.png

http://i44.tinypic.com/bjelg2.png

Found 2 more pieces of driftwood yesterday - tiny pieces, but nice looking ones.

I put the larger piece near the rocks to give more cover - it looks quite busy.. But I like it..

The smaller piece floats, so it is in water until it starts to sink!

[MCHRKiller]

Very nice hardscape :)

[Demi ^_^]

Thanks! I just need some greenery now LOL

I am going to the movies tomorrow with some guy and girlfriends, so their goes my plan to go to teh LFS> LOL

We may go the following day though ;)

[AABatteries]

Today I got a rotala indica and some hornwort. I'll get pics up later tonight(hopefully).

[Demi ^_^]

Yay, looking forward to seeing your piccies AA - have your planst been growing??

[AABatteries]

Yes, they have a little, the moneywort has grown the most. And the baby tears have started dying. :(

[AABatteries]

Made a mistake with the rotala indica, the LPS had it listed as that, but its actually a: Rotala rotundifolia. I'll take some pics later tonight when its dark out.

[mac]

Tanks are looking good.

I have got a great crop of Giant Hygro growing now. The same with the Java Fern. All I need now is some Anubis and a few other plants that I like like Crypts.


Here is a pic of the drift wood I found at one of the lakes I go to.
It took 4 hrs to find it and about 40 km of walking.

http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/images/tb_upload/2350.jpg (http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/view/2350/)

http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/images/tb_upload/2351.jpg (http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/view/2351/)

http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/images/tb_upload/2352.jpg (http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/view/2352/)

Not the nicest job to do. Carry 2 trout. A fishing rod. Fishing gear. The log, and some rocks for 20 kms.

mac

[AABatteries]

Wow, that's an awesome piece of driftwood, I'm jealous. [=

[mac]

Wow, that's an awesome piece of driftwood, I'm jealous. [=

Thanks. It is quite easy to find. It only cost about $50.00, for a trip up to the lake, and some looking around.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

LOL, great piece. Walk a kilometre up the road and you can find some awsome pieces. Bike-riding is a pain to carry wood home but is much more enjoyable IMO and IME!

[Demi ^_^]

Ok..

Came home from my day-out to find Bonnie, my small female in the 42g, with my beautiful, funny F/W shrimp hanging lifeliessly from her jaws :(((((

I admit I burst out crying.. I found this shrimp in a dam and have grown to love his cute character and uncoordinated wobbles :''(


Then it all just got worse! In tears I ran to my room to find Grace and Cooper, my Angelfish pair in the 22g, beating the hell out of my 2 sharks <GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR>

I moved the Balas to en emergancy "tank" (Really a fishing baggie thing with a bubbler) They are really bruised up - heaps of scales missing, frayed tails and fins...

My MOTHER rang the LFS andf they said YES to buying the balas off of me AND Grace and Cooper..

I'll miss them of course, but my other fish, plus they want to breed badly and they get super aggressive with the otehr fishj if they intrude..

Atleast this way they will have their own big tank by themselves..

Plus, the Balas will be going into an 8ft+ show tank - very lucky buggers!

Sad and relieved at the same time today..

[AABatteries]

Seems like you had a very "exciting" day. Still haven't gto round to the pic. Sorry. My betta has started going in the hornwort. I think it's kinda cool/cute. I WILL take pictures tonight.

[mac]

Bike riding and caring logs. Done that many a time. Quite easy once you get the knack of it.

Shame about your Angels missing the word Angel.:19:
Great news your Balas will be in a proper size tank.

Hope things work out for you.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

Thanks guys!

LFS a bit later! :19:

[Demi ^_^]

Ok, Angels + Balas are in a transport 'tank' and are ready to go to their ne whomes :'') We will be leaving soon :')

I am thinking about getting some Macrobrachium Australiense Shrimp/Prawns for the tank too, instead of the corys (As they get 10cm not including their claws..)

I can't find much info tough, so maybe not.. :(

[Demi ^_^]

Just went to the LFS and dropped off the Balas + Angels.

In exchange I got 5 Rummynose Tetras and 2 plants for free! Woah! Didn’t expect anything in return honestly!

I didn’t get to choose the plants, they just gave them to me, so no idea what they are..

Pictures soon when my Rummys start getting used to their new home! XD

[Northernguy]

Thats great news Demi!:22:
It sounds easier than you expected.

[Demi ^_^]

FTS!

http://i40.tinypic.com/2vmsh7c.png

Can anyone ID these plants?

http://i40.tinypic.com/28ipbom.png

http://i40.tinypic.com/1zmmkbp.png

[AABatteries]

I want to say the one on the left is a giant hygro. And I have the same one that's in the middle. I was trying to get an ID on it, and the best thing that came up was a red temple. I don't think that's what it is though.

[mac]

I acutely can't see any Giant Hygro. This is the Giant Hygro.

http://www.aquahobby.com/garden/e_corymbosa.php

Great news that your fish have been accepted back to the shop.thumbs2:

Tank looks good.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

Pfftt.. On another site, peops their say they are unaquatic plants - TERR-I-FIC <sarcasm>

Not happy...

The purple is already beginning to die <sobs>

Anyway, I am coinfused about my Rummys - they have red noses and look reasonably happy, except for the fact they seem to be hiding behind the heater ALOT!

Will they come out more if I get more cover and more Rummies?

[mac]

The red plant to me looks like a kind of Crypt. If so I think it is more likely it is melting, not dyeing. If it is a Crypt it should grow back.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

2 leaves have fell off the red plant.. :(((

I am really confused.. The pplz on this planted tank site say that they are non aquatic but then I read otehr stuff and think not... I don't know..

[MCHRKiller]

The grassy one looks like some form of Crinum and the other looks like a leggy crypt IMO.....

[AABatteries]

The grass one is giant hairgrass. My purple/red plant lost a few leaves during the first couple days, now its starting to grow.

[Demi ^_^]

Gosh guys - you are giving me so many options of what plants they are LOL

I'll scroll through PlantGeek and look at those names..

[Demi ^_^]

Ok... Had a look, the green one is not hair grass, nor is a form of Crinum.. From what I have seen anyway..

[Demi ^_^]

Ok, chucked a hissy-fit and threw those 2 plants out LOL

All of a sudden they just kept falling apart and me got agro LOL

I changed everything - the hardscape is different - etc..

Rummys are doing good - getting more soon..

[mac]

Ok, chucked a hissy-fit and threw those 2 plants out LOL

All of a sudden they just kept falling apart and me got agro LOL

I changed everything - the hardscape is different - etc..

Rummys are doing good - getting more soon..


Welcome to the club. Done it many many times.

Any pics?

mac

[Demi ^_^]

http://i40.tinypic.com/2czwqqd.png

[Heliwyr]

Very nice. Like the diagonals.

[mac]

HMMMM,
No offense, but IMO I think your first theme was nice.

Just a idea you might want to look at this.
http://www.aquahobby.com/board/viewtopic.php?t=52973

Hope this helps.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

To be honest, I agree Mac LOL

I think I'll try a few more things and see how it goes.. lol

[mac]

To be honest, I agree Mac LOL

I think I'll try a few more things and see how it goes.. lol

Congrats on getting to 1500 posts.thumbs2:

Glad you were not offend.
To me I think the rocks and locks would suite a dark substrate. IMO you would want to try and fine light colored rocks, like the sand.

mac

[AABatteries]

Yay! 1,300 posts!

Anyways, today I picked up a Marina Aqua-Minder for $17.98. And my bro got 3 buenos aries tetras today, so mine may join his. And I'm probably going to get a school of 4 or 5 rummynoses to replace them.(I almost like them as much as cardinals). I might get red-blue columbian tetras or glow-lights instead though. Which is the best price is probably what it will come down to. Anyways. I'm bored, so I'll go take a pic.

[AABatteries]

I figured out what the purple/red plant is. Its a dragonflame.

[AABatteries]

Here's the latest picture.
http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/5020/ss851520ty1.jpg
The food and stuff.
http://img161.imageshack.us/img161/153/ss851529zh3.jpg

[mac]

Looks good.

mac

[AABatteries]

Thanks. [=

If everyone hasn't already read, I might be setting up 5.5g sw tank. =D

[mac]

Thanks. [=

If everyone hasn't already read, I might be setting up 5.5g sw tank. =D

Salt water tank? Sounds great. But a 5.5 that will be quite hard IMO to keep just right. Not impossible, but hard.
So you will be just keeping the live rocks and coral in the tank?

mac

[AABatteries]

Yeah, I know 5.5 is going to be hard. Probably the only SW tank I'd be allowed to have right now. And yes to live rock, and maybe to coral. You should go find the thread in the nano reef section, it has pics. (=

[mac]

Yeah, I know 5.5 is going to be hard. Probably the only SW tank I'd be allowed to have right now. And yes to live rock, and maybe to coral. You should go find the thread in the nano reef section, it has pics. (=

I have read about them. I know one thing that they are hard. And more so because some corals get quite large. Good luck with it. And please keep us updated.

mac

[mac]

My tank stand will be ready with in the week. Finally I can't wait. And next bit of news is that the tank stand will be made to take another tank! so I will be having a 83 gallon tank made up for me. This will then become the Cichlid tank, leaving the 50 gallon as the Fire Mouth tank.

Keep you all up-dated.

mac

[mac]

Well the stand is off to get powder coated. And the 83 gallon is being made right now.
So things are not far from being started. I can't wait.

How is your tanks going AA and Demi? And design changes yet Demi?

mac

[AABatteries]

Mine's going great. The hornwort grew a couple inches. It looks cool now, I rearranged some plants too. I'll get a pic up some time.

And the SW is no more for a while. We may get a 20H or 40 breeder SW in a month or so.

[AABatteries]

Here's the new pic...
http://img104.imageshack.us/img104/9388/ss851707ng5.jpg
^ wo/flash

http://img84.imageshack.us/img84/7446/ss851705jj7.jpg
^ w/flash

Tell me which you like better.
Also, you can see how much the hornwort grew in 3 days, I'd say 6-8 inches. thumbs2:

[Demi ^_^]

WOW AA!!!!

I had a beautiful piece of root I was going to put in last night, took all the crud out, only to find that it wouldn't fit properly and just kept falling over GRRRRR! So now, tank is looking pretty drab with the aquascape, as I can't get it the way it was before I tried to put this piece of wood in <sobs>

Getting plants soon from Gemini, I think, I can't wait!!!!!!!!!!

[AABatteries]

Awwww. Poor Demi. I'm sure you'll find just what you're looking for someday. :ssmile:

[mac]

Hi guys,

Well the stand is built. JUst waiting till the powered coat is finished.

This is what I want to turn the 100 gallon

into.http://photos.mongabay.com/en/349Takashi.htm

Took me about 2 days to find what I want. And this is it.

Well how are your tanks going thus far?

mac

[AABatteries]

Got a dozen ghost shrimp today. They're cool little shrimp.

Only 24 more days till the first round of judging. (=

[mac]

Got a dozen ghost shrimp today. They're cool little shrimp.

Only 24 more days till the first round of judging. (=

OOOOOHHHHH F$%$ing %$$$%%$$##$$%%$$##$$%%$##/ Well you get the point.

I must hustle. I think I can get the tank in a ready state by then, but no real growing will be done for me. Though I may get a DIY cO2 in the tank.

Great news about the shrimp.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

Oh crud, fogot about the 1st judging! I am really scared!

High School started back last week and its taking its toll.. Still no plants as of yet, but hopefully my tank will atleast look decent enough for the first judging <grins>

[mac]

Oh crud, fogot about the 1st judging! I am really scared!

High School started back last week and its taking its toll.. Still no plants as of yet, but hopefully my tank will atleast look decent enough for the first judging <grins>


Good luck with your studies Demi.

As for the Judging you are not alone. I am still waiting for the 83 gallon tank, and the stand to come back from powder coating.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

Bought 2 more Rummies today! :19:

Beautiful little guys, I now have a gorgeous school of 7!!!

I nearly splurged on a betta today.. :)) I spotted a beautiful deep brown male vieltail and am now kicking myself for not getting him :((((((

[AABatteries]

Cool. And that's exactly why I got my female betta. She is an awesome fish. She lets people pet her.

[mac]

Unfortunately since it is a public holiday the tank stand and the tank will still take time. All is done just waiting for the shops to open.

Great you have a nice school of Rummies Demi.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

Oh my, its getting close to judging <trembles>

I shoudl be getting my Java Moss off of Gemini soon - can't wait!

Next additions are 3 more Rummynose to get me a school of 10! <grins>

I think I have 2 different types.. The first 5 I got are the 'true rummynose tetras' (Hemigrammus rhodostomus) and the 2 I got a few days ago are one of the false Rummynose Tetras (Hemigrammus bleheri)

Oh well, doesn't really matter :)) They looking gorgeous in the school!

[mac]

Oh my, its getting close to judging <trembles>

First of I will start in dutch $%$#@#$%%$#$#$$%%%$$#$$%%#$ then German %$#$$%%%$##$$%%%$ now English, Ohh I won't make the first judging.


I think I have 2 different types.. The first 5 I got are the 'true rummynose tetras' (Hemigrammus rhodostomus) and the 2 I got a few days ago are one of the false Rummynose Tetras (Hemigrammus bleheri)

Oh well, doesn't really matter :)) They looking gorgeous in the school!

Sorry about your two different types Demi.

mac

[AABatteries]

Latest pic!
http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/1432/ss851864iy6.jpg

The hornwort is really growing. And I'm finally getting around to working on the DIY CO2 system. That should bring the algae down and help the plants grow.

[AABatteries]

Got my check valves finally. (:

[mac]

Your tank is maturing ver nicly AA. Looks great. Better than mine, just a glass tank waitng for the stand.

Well the stand should be home soon. Just finished my second day at the elcectriacl study, so I don't know what has happened with my tank stand yet.

How is your tank Demi?

mac

[Demi ^_^]

Algae everywhere in mine the timer hasnt worked for the past 2 days and I hadnt noticed, so the light had been on 24/7... DARN!!!!

My rat Bilbert was really sick last night (He is much better now - no idea what was wrong...) and I was to busy tearing up and making him comfortable to do a W/C and algae clean on the 22g..

Oha nd top it all off in a neat lil package.. 1 of my Rummies DIED!!! Why?

I have absolutely no idea, parametres are perfect, ph is steady and stable as always at 7, other Rummies are fine and schooling wonderfully... Damn :((

[mac]

Sorry to hear about your rat, and Algea problem.

As for the Rummie Nose IMO I think it just died of stress. It happens to us all.

Good luck.

My stand is home, and I have finished my taks before the rest so I was out of class early. Hopefully time to get into the tank decors ASAP.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

Gemini sent my plants on Monday, so I am haunting the post office waiting for them! Hopefully they come soon!!!!!!!!

[mac]

Well good news. I am stating the 100 gallon today. Hopefully if all goes to plan I can, try to up load some pics tonight.

mac

[Poofaye C.]

I've been waiting mac....can't wait to see that big boy set up!!!

[AABatteries]

Got a huge gold mystery snail and a ramshorn snail today. They are awesome. It should be easy enough to get pics of them.

[Demi ^_^]

Got a new light for my 42g...

Only 18 watt, but is a beautiful bright white and because I am not growing live plants in their, I am not worried abotu the wattage - PLUS it was cheap!!!! LOL!

I ahve been thinking of moving the 2 Glowlight Tetras from my 42g into my 22g and having 8 Rummys, 8 Glowlights.... I think the Glowlights would be much happier then and they woudl each have a ncie schoool...

Hmmm! DECISIONS! DECISIONS!


Are we going to only have 1 judging... or are we going to have like competions every few months or so...? I think it would be cool if we kept having competitions every few months, atleast then I'll be ready for the next one after this 1st one!

[mac]

Well it has happened. My 100 gallon is half way filled. Sp far it is part planted. And ready. But tones of work to go. And thanks to my boss, I will be the supervisor and chief at work for 2 days. I mean I will be by my self with one waitress in the kitchen serving who knows how many customers.

Anyway things are great with the tank. So far I am nearly done. Just have some work to do. I will post pics when I have time. I have my studies to do for Electrical trade and I have to learn more with the cooking in 3 days.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

Ok ATM I ahve the following fish in the 22g:

- 6x Rummys
- 6x Glowies

Plans have completely changed as you can see!

New plans:

- 8x Rummies
- 8x Glowlights
- 2x Apistogramma Cacatuoides (1x male/1x female)

The Apistos are 19 bucks each though for a tiny little Caca the size of a baby Neon - But what the heck!? I LOOOOVVVEEE this one female I saw today! Such character! Such personality! Such BEAUTY!!! LOLOLOL

[mac]

Ok ATM I ahve the following fish in the 22g:

- 6x Rummys
- 6x Glowies

Plans have completely changed as you can see!

New plans:

- 8x Rummies
- 8x Glowlights
- 2x Apistogramma Cacatuoides (1x male/1x female)

The Apistos are 19 bucks each though for a tiny little Caca the size of a baby Neon - But what the heck!? I LOOOOVVVEEE this one female I saw today! Such character! Such personality! Such BEAUTY!!! LOLOLOL


Sound like a great plan. IMO go a head with it. Just I think no Corys. Space will be a bit tight with the Cichlid pair.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

Yup, tahst what I was thinking ;))

[AABatteries]

Oh crap, forget to enter my tank in TOTM. Any ways, no real new, just got the DIY co2 system done 2 days ago. I'll have to get a co2 test kit when even I can.

[mac]

Well my tank is not to far away. I will try and get some pics up now.

This tank stand has be made to be able to take two tank which can carry up to 1 ton each tank.

So the first tank is the top tank which will be the 100 gallon.
And the tank in the bottom will be the 83 gallon. The 83 gallon is going to be very similar to the other tank. 48 inches by 20 inches by 20 inches, less 4 inches in hight from the 100 gallon.

Here is the 100 gallon being set up.

http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/images/tb_upload/2413.jpg (http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/view/2413/)

http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/images/tb_upload/2414.jpg (http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/view/2414/)

http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/images/tb_upload/2416.jpg (http://www.plantedtank.net/imagehosting/view/2416/)

So far the tank has just one log in it, and a fair amount of Giant Hygro. Along with some Crypts. The rest of the plants are to still come, along with rock caves and more wood. Once I find time to dismantle the 50 gallon. I also have a cO2 kit to add yet.


mac

[Owlbehere]

Goldfish are beasts at getting rid of snails. Really.

[Demi ^_^]

NOOOTTTTTTTTTTT happy!!!!

The 4 new Glowlights I got a few days ago - all were dead when I got home from school!!!!!!! GRRRRRRR! None of the otehr fish have been ill/sick/dead!!!! JUST THE 4 I got 1-2days ago - So i AM NOT happy!!!!

Hopefully the store will give me a refund or something, because I spent 15 bucks on them...

[mac]

Sorry to here about yuour trouble Demi.
Shame that the Glowlights died.
I wonder what the shops tanks, and quarentine theme is like?

mac

[Demi ^_^]

Phew, they are giving me a replacement - doesn't exacly make me grin - I mean I have lost 4 little fish that I had wnated to give a beloved home.. but thats life..

[mac]

Phew, they are giving me a replacement - doesn't exacly make me grin - I mean I have lost 4 little fish that I had wnated to give a beloved home.. but thats life..

Unfortunatly it is life. Good they are replacing them. For me I would try and quarentine them if you can. Just incase they have some disease.

mac

[Heliwyr]

Phew, they are giving me a replacement - doesn't exacly make me grin - I mean I have lost 4 little fish that I had wnated to give a beloved home.. but thats life..

Maybe you can get the temp and pH of the store's tanks and compare that to your own? Should give you an idea of what kind of jump your new fish were trying to make. I know the LFS here uses RO water and has a pH of something like 6.6, whereas the Petsmart uses treated tap water and the pH is probably close to my tank, which is 7.4-7.8. My tank is also much warmer than either of those places (80 F v.s. room temperature (75ish)). So, just about all fish that come from Petsmart will end up adjusting faster and more easily when compared to fish from the LFS.

If it is a big jump, just acclimate them longer. Try the drip method for a couple of hours.

[Demi ^_^]

Yes - I am going for an Amazon biotype!

My pH is at 6.8 today, so it is slowly lowering to a more appreciated level (I usually have a stable 7 for pH) and because of the array of sticks, driftwood and leaf litter, the tanks water is a beautiful rich tea-like colour..

The Tetras seem much more outgoing since I have added the wood and leaves - exploring and swimming through the root-like knooks and crannies and shimmying themselves in the plentiful heap of leaves!

I have an 18watt, 6500k fluroescent light, but I am also planning on eitehr buying another bulb, or building a DIY light..

I want to grow Melon Swords, Amazon Swords and Dwarf Hair Grass...

Here is the outlay from top view I am planning:

http://i39.tinypic.com/fz9jbs.jpg

[Crispy]

when are we gonna see all of your finished tanks and finally get to vote??
Not that I'm rushing anyone, but I can't wait to see everyone's final setups!

[Demi ^_^]

I think we have all agreed that we are gonna have a competition every 2 or so months...

The 1st judging is in 4 days <eep> The 25th!

I am knowhere near ready LOL <nervous>

[AABatteries]

Final set ups? Is there such a thing? :hmm3grin2orange:

And I think we all know who will win. thumbs2:

[mac]

Final set ups? Is there such a thing? :hmm3grin2orange:

And I think we all know who will win. thumbs2:

I quite a agree. Final set ups is sort of way in the distance which is uite hard to get to.

Well I should be ready by the 25th. But I wont have much growth, or many plants. Just the hard scape and a few things. The blasted shop has taken to long to build the other tank, and the way I set things up I can't shift any thing with out disrupting the tanks. More than likerly I will make the second judging.

Any new pics AA? And Demi you plan looks very nice.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

Yes, I will make the 2nd judging, I should be properly ready by then... All I really have is a hardscape ATM, as I need a better ligth for plants.. LOL

Thanks Mac, the Tetras colours have come out so amazingly since I added all the hardscape and the water turned brown!!

[AABatteries]

I'll wait till its comp time for the pics. Just to torture you.

[mac]

I'll wait till its comp time for the pics. Just to torture you.

Ahh stop it, it is too much. I can't take the pain. Ohh help please I beg you stop!!!!.

Rolf.

That sounds fun AA.

mac

[Newfish79]

very cool thread guys... thumbs2:

[mac]

Thanks Newfish79.

mac

[Demi ^_^]

I aint gunna torture noone because:

a. I don't have anything to torture anyone with..
b. My tank looks the same and is still only hardscape...
c. I just posted some pics of the tank on another forum, so may aswell on my beloved AC too!

Here are some piccies of the tank so far..

http://i41.tinypic.com/206lrhi.png

http://i43.tinypic.com/34e2es4.png

http://i40.tinypic.com/24zvjpl.png

http://i42.tinypic.com/2r7n7o6.png

[AABatteries]

Looking good. I'm not liking the leaves that much though. Sorry.(blush)

[Demi ^_^]

Don't say sorry :11: Its your opinion :)))


I didn't like them at first either, but my tetras LOVE them, so they are staying put ;) LOL

I wish I had my plants in before this 1st judging - but, oh well, nest competition I'll be ready!!!!

[Owlbehere]

I think once planted those leaves will look great!

[Friendly]

I like it :)

[cocoa_pleco]

looks great! the leaves look good too

[Pandora]

Very Australian! I like it.

[mac]

Tank looks great Demi. With some very careful planting theme, it will look great. The leaves look great. I should get some to.

mac

[Newfish79]

I like the leaves...

[Poofaye C.]

I just posted some pics of the tank on another forum, so may aswell on my beloved AC too!

Anyone else just a little jealous we don't have Demi all to ourselves, here at the AC?
Who else ventures out to other fish fourms?!?!?!? You too Mac???:hmm3grin2orange: :scry: :hmm3grin2orange:

[AABatteries]

I have before. Just for SW. I ventured out to Reef Central. And will be going back soon since I should be starting on my 20g SW soon. Don't worry though, AC will be my main forum.

That will mean this tank won't get any new additions except for some ghost shrimp and maybe a plant or two.

[cocoa_pleco]

i used to pop by reefsanctuary, but i rarely do anymore. for the near year ive been on there, i have only like 2 dozen rep points and no real friends on the forum. i only stick here now

[Demi ^_^]

Don't worry, AC is my 2nd family - no other forum could take its place!

<everyone wipes tears from eyes>

[Slow Cheetah]

this is for demi,

is that jsut gum tree twigs and leaves in teh tank??

i had no idea you could put them in the tank!

[Demi ^_^]

Yup they are - just scrub em good and boiling water!

[Crispy]

Nice setup so far Demi.. I like the look of the leaves also.