set up a 50 gallon. need ideas/suggestions

[Swifterz]

i had a 20 gallon setup for about the last 6 months. i had the following fish in there.

Tiger Barbs (4)
Black Skirt Tetras (4)
Black Mollys (4)
Red Wag Platys (4)
Iridescent Sharks (2)

the sharks are only about 3" or 4", but obviously a 20 gallon tank is not ideal. still they did great in the tank for months.

unfortunately i got some bad advice, changed too much of the water and lost all the fish except for the ID sharks and two of the Platys.

about 3 nights ago, to accommodate the sharks, and just because i wanted a larger one to begin with, i set up a 50 gallon tank. i have done my homework with this tank, talking with people all over town, reading online, etc. while i did not want to introduce fish before the tank "cycled", i had nowhere to put my ID sharks, and i felt slightly comforted by the fact that they had survived what all the other fish hadn't.

so after the new tank was setup, the water had been conditioned and it had been running for a few hours, i dropped them in. i noticed immediately they were extremelly happy with all the extra room they now have to swim. i should add that a little over half of the water (12 gallons or so) from the old tank was put in the new tank. i didn't start from scratch with 100% tap water.

i put in a few goldfish that night also, just to get the cycle started up quicker. maybe this was a mistake, i'm not sure but i was just told they are cheap and easy fish to test the water and speed the process up. not saying i want to kill fish, but if you lose them it's no big deal, and it might tip you off that something is not right with the water. anyway, they are also fine.

when i got home from work yesterday, i noticed that a couple goldfish were missing their entire tails. i'm guessing the sharks took a chunk out of them. anyway, i took all the goldies out. so i had a tank with two iridescents, and two platys. the platys are boring. i don't really even want them in there. they just sit at the very top where you can't even see them and stay in one spot.

i have always wanted Bala Sharks, but didn't have room enough for them. so yesterday i went by a local pet store just to check them out and get some prices cause it was nearby. like i said i am very hesitant to introduce new fish before the tank cycles.

out of all the fish i had before, i really liked the tiger barbs. this store had tiger barbs for 99 cents. i knew they were hardy fish, and after talking with a guy in the pet store for about 30 minutes, he assured me they would be fine and that i need more fish than two ID sharks and two platys in there even if i'm just starting to cycle the tank.

i told him what i really like are the Balas but i needed to wait. i have heard myself that Balas can suffer from "new tank syndrome". he pretty much guaranteed me they would do fine, offered me a money back guarantee and talked me into it. i slowly introduced 3 small Bala Sharks (about 2") to their new home yesterday. they seem to be doin great.

i don't know a lot about many fish other than the ones i've kept. i had the two ID's and some tiger barbs, and always just liked Balas. so i was thinking about having..

4 (or so) ID sharks (between 3 and 6 inches)
5 or 6 Balas (the 3 i have now are 2", would like to have some 6"+)
maybe 8-10 Tiger Barbs (the $1 from the pet store are very, very small)

how is that starting out for a tank this size? have i done anything wrong? the water looks great and the fish seem happy. should i wait a while to introduce the tiger barbs?

also, i want to do some plants, but i am torn over live vs. artificial. live looks great, but do i have the lighting for live plants? fake plants seem fine, but the two or three i have and have dealt with are a pain. i can't get them to anchor all the way down in the rocks without showing the plastic base, they come up every time i change water or have to move something, etc. i am going for a more natural look and it would take a lot of fake plants in a tank that's 4 feet wide.

anyway, long story i know. thanks for reading, and i'd appreciate advice, comments, and answers to a few of the questions i asked towards the end.

[PostalPenguin]

The biggest thing is that your ID sharks are going to get way, way too big for a 50g tank. They get up to 48" long and nearly a 100lbs. So I would look to give them back to the fish store ASAP since unless you are planning on a >500 gallon tank the will eventually outgrow your tank.

This is an ID shark:
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[Swifterz]

i am aware they can get very, very big. my friend has about 8 of them in a 55gallon all about 6-8 inches long.

i will not keep them forever. when they outgrow the tank, i will probably give them to someone who has room for them, as i doubt my wife will support the idea of me getting a bigger thank than we already have.

for the time being, having a pair that are about 3 or 4 inches seems perfectly fine for this tank. maybe i'm dead wrong, but this has also been the opinion of nearly everyone i've talked to about it.

i do understand that if/when they get much larger, they will have to be moved.

[MrDrums]

But why start off with fish you know your tank won't handle for very long? Why not establish a good tank with fish that will be part of your community for the long run? Seems silly to have to remove fish that get too big and hope someone will take them when the time comes. I have had my tank for years, and I don't know of anyone who would take any fish off my hands - even the small ones. Unfortunately, fish that get too big are often left to die when people can't get rid of them.

Anyway, I hope that is not the case with you. Hope your tank works out.

[Swifterz]

But why start off with fish you know your tank won't handle for very long? Why not establish a good tank with fish that will be part of your community for the long run? Seems silly to have to remove fish that get too big and hope someone will take them when the time comes. I have had my tank for years, and I don't know of anyone who would take any fish off my hands - even the small ones. Unfortunately, fish that get too big are often left to die when people can't get rid of them.

Anyway, I hope that is not the case with you. Hope your tank works out.

from what i've been told, they should be fine for a long time. it's not like next month, or even next year they are going to be a foot long and miserable in 50 gallons of water.

like i said, my friend has had all of his for a long while and they are all doing fine. i can see what you're saying though.

what fish would you suggest for "the long run"? i'm open to ideas. ike i said i don't know much about many species other than the ones i had. but now that i have more room, i would like to go with slightly larger fish and i would like to have a variety of fish in there for sure. thanks for your help.

[jaysee]

The only way that changing too much water will kill your fish is if you don't add dechlorinator, or if the parameters of the new water is vastly different from the old tank water. Significant differences in pH or temperature can shock the fish to death. I've safely changed 95%, but I stepped up my water changes before doing so to get my tank and tap water as close as possible. It was smart of you to add the water from the old tank as a buffer for the new water.

Did you pack the old filter media in the new filter? You mentioned doing your homework this time...does that include reading up on cycling?

If you're really into these sharks, I would suggest not spending another dime on fish and get yourself a 125 gallon. They will outgrow the 50 gallon in a matter of several months, as opposed to maybe 2 years in the 125. Of course you can just be a grow out tank for the LFS if you want - keep switching them out every 6 months. It's your tank.

I wouldn't be adding fish right now, especially not the one's you want to keep, since the cycle process is going to weaken them or even kill them if you are not diligent.

[Swifterz]

The only way that changing too much water will kill your fish is if you don't add dechlorinator, or if the parameters of the new water is vastly different from the old tank water. Significant differences in pH or temperature can shock the fish to death. I've safely changed 95%, but I stepped up my water changes before doing so to get my tank and tap water as close as possible. It was smart of you to add the water from the old tank as a buffer for the new water.

Did you pack the old filter media in the new filter? You mentioned doing your homework this time...does that include reading up on cycling?

If you're really into these sharks, I would suggest not spending another dime on fish and get yourself a 125 gallon. They will outgrow the 50 gallon in a matter of several months, as opposed to maybe 2 years in the 125. Of course you can just be a grow out tank for the LFS if you want - keep switching them out every 6 months. It's your tank.

I wouldn't be adding fish right now, especially not the one's you want to keep, since the cycle process is going to weaken them or even kill them if you are not diligent.

i intended on using the older filter media, but it was not the same size, and it was in AWFUL condition. it's a wonder all the fish were able to live all that time with it like that. i didn't really know what i was doing and it hadn't been changed in a very long time. i'm taking this setup very seriously though. water changes, filter changes, cleaning the tube, being careful not to overfeed, etc.

[MrDrums]

I have always love severum and geophagus. They go well together, and they get big, but not too big. Again, with these larger fish, you won't be able to put too many into a small tank. Have you considered smaller fish? A nice school of rainbows would be very cool. They are always active, and very colorful.

[jaysee]

i intended on using the older filter media, but it was not the same size, and it was in AWFUL condition. it's a wonder all the fish were able to live all that time with it like that. i didn't really know what i was doing and it hadn't been changed in a very long time. i'm taking this setup very seriously though. water changes, filter changes, cleaning the tube, being careful not to overfeed, etc.

That's good. Just get in a routine and stick to it.

What kind of filtration system do you have for the 50?

[Swifterz]

i haven't considered much other than what i know (barbs, tetras, mollies, platys, etc.)

two questions i would like to ask.

1) after witnessing my ID sharks attack the goldfish and bite their tails off, could i feed these sharks (and maybe the Bala sharks too) the guppies or "feeder fish" that are like 10 cents apiece at wal-mart.

2) how fast will my bala sharks grow? i wanted to get some 5" or larger but they are so expensive. that's why i got only three that are 2" apiece. ideally i'd like to have 5 or 6 all about 6" or bigger.

[jaysee]

You could feed them feeders, but they lack the nutrition needed to be considdered as a significant food source. Moreover, you're fish will be at a higher risk for disease. They are a nice treat.

The five or six 6+" balas would need a much larger tank than 50. Where will they swim? You have big fish dreams, but a medium sized tank....

Whether or not you'll be able to keep them alive in the tank will largely depend on your filtration system. What kind of filtration are you running on the tank?

[Sharon]

Actually, I've always found Balas to be sensitive to water conditions, and your tank is cycling. Please don't buy more until the tank has cycled. That size tank will not support the balas for long. They are skittish fish, especially when the tank isn't big enough, and they will swim into the tank walls, often hurting themselves.

[rookie]

if u still can please give the balas back to the local fish store. balas also get very big like 14-18in or so and they are also a schooling fish. between the situation you have with the id sharks the last thing you need is balas. i also love them however i dont think that eather of us can house balas. you need atleast something like a 300g to keep a school of balas. i know it stinks like i said i love them too but not many people will take fish off your hands and even if you have someone willing they need some serious equpment to handle what you are raising. also if you keep all those fish it will stunt there groth. i am also setting up a 50g. i already have one angel about a year old. and when i stock my 50g im getting a school of congo tetras, a school of emporor tetras and a bristle nose pleco. i hope this helps.

[Swifterz]

The filter is an Aqua-Tech with dual slots with 330GPH.

[Swifterz]

here is a video of the last night i had the 20 gallon tank with the two ID sharks running around

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and here is the new tank.

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you can get a pretty good idea on the size of the ID sharks. they are on the right near the sphinx statue. the balas were not yet in the tank when this picture was taken.

[bushwhacker]

i'm probably not doin things right but i rarely clean my filters, water changes are done every week... and the tanks are like crystal.

[robflanker]

The filter is an Aqua-Tech with dual slots with 330GPH.

I believe I have the same one which is an Aquatech 30-60. But you have it on a 50g and I have it on a 30g. You should consider getting additional filtration. Maybe an AC20 or AC30

[Swifterz]

here are some pics for scale

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[Only Registered Users Can See Links.]

[King Tut]

Just some thought on your filtration. I have a 45 gal tank and I am running 2 Aqueon 55 gal filters so that I make sure the water is filtered out as often as possible. I believe you can't have to much filtration. Also just because your media looks nasty doesn't mean it is no good. There is quite a bit of good bacteria on there. I always pull media from a cycled filter to put in a new filter to get the cycle kick started. If it is clogged and running slowly, while you are doing a water change just rinse the filter in the old water and place it back in. This just helps to get the loose stuff off there but you can keep the good bacteria.

Just my 2 cents.

[jaysee]

The filter is an Aqua-Tech with dual slots with 330GPH.

I think at least another 100 gph are in order. Personally, with the fish you intend to keep, I would add another 200 gph. GPH are a good way to compare filters, but the quality between filters varies. The wisper 40 and the Aquaclear 50 both do 200 gph, but the AC50 is a FAR, FAR better filter.

I have 3 AC50s on my 55, which is 600 gph. However, 2 I have at full flow and one is on a lower flow setting.

The problems that arrise from underfiltration silently creep up on you and often lead to "unexplained" deaths.

[Swifterz]

do you think i could eventually introduce a school of cardinal tetras into this tank?

i worry about the iridescent sharks eat them up, although they NEVER bothered the mollies, platys, tiger barbs or black tetras i had them with for months. i'm just surprised at seeing them tear up those goldfish. i didn't know they had that in them.

[Red]

I wouldn't Isharks will eat them.

[Swifterz]

I wouldn't Isharks will eat them.

if that's the case i will probably get rid of the ID sharks cause i really want a school of cardinal or neon tetras. i don't think the balas would bother though right? at least not for a long while? right now they are very small, not much bigger than the tetras themselves would be.

[jaysee]

A 4 inch bala will eat a cardinal or neon no problem. You're 3 2" balas will be 4" in 4 months.

You could just wait until the balas are too big to swim propperly to get the cardinals. They won't be able to eat them cause they won't be able to swim.

[Swifterz]

A 4 inch bala will eat a cardinal or neon no problem. You're 3 2" balas will be 4" in 4 months.

You could just wait until the balas are too big to swim propperly to get the cardinals. They won't be able to eat them cause they won't be able to swim.


why wouldn't they be able to swim properly?

[jaysee]

why wouldn't they be able to swim properly?

Not enough room, as everyone here has said. I don't mean they'll be swimming upside down or anything, just that as soon as they get going in one direction, it's time to turn around. The video you posted of the 2 ID sharks in the 20 gallon is an example of this.

I'm a huge advocate that they're your fish, do what you want with them. I believe the fish are there for you, not the other way around. I'm only saying all this because you obviously really like these fish (who doesn't) and I think you'd like them even more if they had adequate housing. I don't want you to be short changed on your experience with such a wonderful fish.

[Swifterz]

thanks a lot for the input. you have been very helpful.

[Swifterz]

soooooo. i got 6 tiger barbs and 4 white skirt tetras added in there yesterday.

there is one tiger barb, one of the smallest ones, that is non-stop chasing and nipping the fins of the iridescent sharks (10x his size) and also one of the bala sharks (5x his size).

the other barbs school all together, and this little rogue guy runs around non-stop chasing my sharks. the two of my bala sharks that he isn't bothering pretty much floated in one spot all night. they didn't do much swimming at all.

should i add a couple more barbs? i've kept them before and i thought 6 would be enough but i guess i was wrong. but it's just this one little guy. maybe he's just mean and i should take him out?

[jaysee]

soooooo. i got 6 tiger barbs and 4 white skirt tetras added in there yesterday.

there is one tiger barb, one of the smallest ones, that is non-stop chasing and nipping the fins of the iridescent sharks (10x his size) and also one of the bala sharks (5x his size).

the other barbs school all together, and this little rogue guy runs around non-stop chasing my sharks. the two of my bala sharks that he isn't bothering pretty much floated in one spot all night. they didn't do much swimming at all.

should i add a couple more barbs? i've kept them before and i thought 6 would be enough but i guess i was wrong. but it's just this one little guy. maybe he's just mean and i should take him out?

You can try it, but there's no guarantee. Try switching him out for another. Size isn't everything - those quick little fish can torment larger fish.

[mac]

You can try it, but there's no guarantee. Try switching him out for another. Size isn't everything - those quick little fish can torment larger fish.


Very true. IMO I would return it instead of bothering changing it, or getting more. You may end up with the same problem.

mac

[Swifterz]

thanks for the replies. i wish i had checked this sooner. on my way home i stopped at the pet store and explained my situation.

i ended up getting two more barbs for a total of 8. i also picked up 4 black skirt tetras to go along with my 4 white skirt tetras.

all of these fish are 99 cents this week. she said i could bring the one rogue guy back if i wanted.

their bags are floating in the tank right now. we'll see if this helps at all and if no i'll return the annoying one. i noticed just now he is also chasing after the white skirt tetras and nipping them.

[jaysee]

If he's a bully when he's small, he'll be a BIG bully when he's bigger:hmm3grin2orange:

[Swifterz]

ok i'm watching and he is pissing me off so bad. the tips of one of the ID shark's tail has been bitten off. he's bothering other fish too. but i can't catch him! he dips behind some of my decor and i can't see him. then when he comes back out there are like 3 other barbs there and i don't know which one he is. all of the other barbs are schooling and behaving themselves.

[jaysee]

Are you using two nets?

You'll probably need to take the decor out.

[Swifterz]

Are you using two nets?

You'll probably need to take the decor out.

no i only have one net and unfortunately it's pretty small. it worked great for my 20 gallon tank but i'm going to have to invest in a much bigger one now. i've given up trying for the night. i've probably spent an hour just eyeing this guy, watching his behavior, trying not to let him get mixed in with the others again, and trying to get him out.

another question, do you think i have to get him out? i don't think he's hurting any of the fish, just annoying them.

[wolf_eyes]

He is putting stress on your other fish and since your tank is still most likely cycling the stress of the little tiger may causethe other fish to get sick. I would seriously stop buying fish and be concerned about your cycling. I know getting a new tank is exciting and you want to put fish in it as soon as possible, believe me it gets the better of me ALL the time, haha. But it gets to a point where you need to stop buying new ones and worry about the ones you got. I'm curious to know, do you have a testing kit to test your water? If so can you please put what these are? I'm also concerned with the fish you're keeping and the fish you want to put in.

Cardinal/neons tetras and black/white skirt tetras are small, peaceful fish and balas, Irridecent sharks, and tiger barbs may eat/kill them(moreso the neon/cardinals than the black/white skirts.
The fish you have now, are mostly semi aggressive and should stay with other species that are semi aggressive.
Also there is the size factor, but you've been told this already so I won't repeat it.

Now it's up to you what fish you want to keep but i would stick with either a semi aggressive tank or a peaceful tank. Also, on a personal level, I would try to listen to the people on this site more than the people at the stores. I'm assuming your buying fish from chain stores like petsmart/petco, and sometimes the advice they give isn't the greatest. I've heard some advice given that was way off and would almost garentee failure. Quite a few people that work there only know the basic about fish whereas this is a fish forum. The people on here have years of experience and really care about the fish, not just pushing dollars around like some of the stores out there.

[Swifterz]

my water tested fine early on, but i was told it would spike and then settle back down. however, before i added any fish i talked with people to make sure they thought it would be ok (that the fish was hardy), and also i knew i needed to add fish in order for the tank to cycle. i admit i got a little carried away, but i think i have all the fish i want in there, so i'm done. and all the fish are acting great in there so far.

[Swifterz]

when i first got it (only a few fish)...

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how it looks today...

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added fish, lots of plants and a background.

VIDEOS

fish swimming around...
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feeding time...
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[jaysee]

my water tested fine early on, but i was told it would spike and then settle back down. however, before i added any fish i talked with people to make sure they thought it would be ok (that the fish was hardy), and also i knew i needed to add fish in order for the tank to cycle. i admit i got a little carried away, but i think i have all the fish i want in there, so i'm done. and all the fish are acting great in there so far.

:ssmile: Glad to hear you've got it like you want it. I've been eyeing the centerpiece you have....

Now you can enjoy the fruits of your labor :fish: :fish:

[Swifterz]

:ssmile: Glad to hear you've got it like you want it. I've been eyeing the centerpiece you have....

Now you can enjoy the fruits of your labor :fish: :fish:

the centerpiece came from petsmart. it was about $25 (on sale).

and thanks, i'm really enjoying it! i am a little concerned that if/when the levels "spike" i could lose some fish. do you think i should be worried about that? like i said they have been acting happy/healthy/active but this is the first time i've set something like this all up on my own.

[Swifterz]

there are four more large plants on the way. everything will have to be rearranged. what i plan to do is have a lot of really tall plants on the right side with lots of areas for hiding. the big center piece will have to be shifted over to the left, the rock on the far left will be removed, and all the small "foreground" plants will be bunched into one area on the left side. right now everything is very symmetrical and while i like it, it looks forced.

[jaysee]

Honestly, you should only be worried if you don't want to have to get replacements here and there if you lose any. What stage of the cycle are you in?

You're here so you're not exactly alone.

I find that choosing decor is more difficult than choosing fish :hmm3grin2orange:

[Swifterz]

Honestly, you should only be worried if you don't want to have to get replacements here and there if you lose any. What stage of the cycle are you in?

You're here so you're not exactly alone.

I find that choosing decor is more difficult than choosing fish :hmm3grin2orange:

i'd say the tank has been running 10 days, maybe a little less. at setup, it started with about 15 gallons of water and some rocks from my last tank. of course the rest of the "new" water was treated and all that. at first it only had two platys and two iridescent sharks in it. next came the balas (about 4 or 5 days later). then 6 tiger barbs a couple days after that, then the tetras two days ago.

i already had the ID's, the balas were about $5 each, and all the other fish (8 tiger barbs, 8 tetras) were 99 cents each. i don't have a ton of money invested, but i still don't want to see my fish die. :(

[wolf_eyes]

I find that choosing decor is more difficult than choosing fish :hmm3grin2orange:
That's how I feel with live plants haha.

It would be easier to keep check on your spikes and whatnot if you had a testing kit. It's possible you'll lose some fish but like jaysee said you'll just have to replace them. Cycling can be hard on your fish unfortunately :/ (wish it wasn't haha but I think we all do!) I would recommend getting a testing kit, even if it's just the 6 in one strips rather than a liquid one so you can know where your ammonia and nitrites are at. Sometimes fish can be swimming around happily but there may be a problem lurking under the surface, so to speak. Sorry if I sound like a pain or anything, it's just easier for us and for you to know what your water is like incase something starts to go wrong ( hopefully nothing will though, of course! :) )

Tank looks great by the way.

[Swifterz]

That's how I feel with live plants haha.

It would be easier to keep check on your spikes and whatnot if you had a testing kit. It's possible you'll lose some fish but like jaysee said you'll just have to replace them. Cycling can be hard on your fish unfortunately :/ (wish it wasn't haha but I think we all do!) I would recommend getting a testing kit, even if it's just the 6 in one strips rather than a liquid one so you can know where your ammonia and nitrites are at. Sometimes fish can be swimming around happily but there may be a problem lurking under the surface, so to speak. Sorry if I sound like a pain or anything, it's just easier for us and for you to know what your water is like incase something starts to go wrong ( hopefully nothing will though, of course! :) )

Tank looks great by the way.

noooo you don't sound like a pain. this is why i'm here, to get information from people who are knowledgeable and experienced like you. and i appreciate the input!

yeah i do need to invest in a water testing kit. the place i have been dealing with told me, actually encouraged me to bring in a sample of my water and they would test it for free. this is a stupid question i know, but should i just scoop up a bag full of water and take it over there?

i am optomistic because it seems like at least one or two of the fish would be acting weird and/or have already died if something was wrong, but i'm still a bit nervous about it. i'm learning as i go!

like i said, most of the fish weren't expensive at all, but it's not just about the money. i don't want to kill any fish, and if some died, while i could obviously replace them, i would be concerned with what killed the others, and whether or not it can be prevented from happening again to the new fish.

[Wetpets]

Hi all.

Swifterz, I was looking at your fish selection:

Tiger Barbs (4)
Black Skirt Tetras (4)
Black Mollys (4)
Red Wag Platys (4)
Iridescent Sharks (2)

... and the one thing that struck me is that the Barbs and Tetra like moderately soft / acidic water, where your livebearers need harder neutral - alkaline water.

IMHO you should stock with fish that enjoy the same water parameters. Anyone agree?

PS: Lovely pics!!!

[wolf_eyes]

That's always a good attitude to have! It's really sad to say but a lot of people just don't care if their fish die. As a person who works at a vets office and a fish lover, it makes me kinda sad that some people take life for granted sometimes. Glad you're not one of them though ^_~.

I personally recommend getting a freshwater master kit from API. It's more expensive upfront (32 bucks if i remember correctly) but in the long run its much much cheaper than constantly buying strips and it's more accurate. If you don't want to spend the 32 on the whole kit, then they should sell ammonia and nitrites separately. Of course there's also the test strips, but they're a little less accurate on some things.

Generally if I'm bringing water into a store I'll put it in a plastic cup and just bring it over. A bag works well too, they don't need a whole lot, just 3/4 a cup or so.

[jaysee]

i'd say the tank has been running 10 days, maybe a little less. at setup, it started with about 15 gallons of water and some rocks from my last tank. of course the rest of the "new" water was treated and all that. at first it only had two platys and two iridescent sharks in it. next came the balas (about 4 or 5 days later). then 6 tiger barbs a couple days after that, then the tetras two days ago.

i already had the ID's, the balas were about $5 each, and all the other fish (8 tiger barbs, 8 tetras) were 99 cents each. i don't have a ton of money invested, but i still don't want to see my fish die. :(

Did you use any of the old filter media from the 20 when you set of the new filter?

That's a very, aggressive, stocking scedule. It takes several days for the ammonia levels to rise to a point that start affecting your fish. You have to have some way of knowing what your water parameters are if you want to keep all your fish. If you are just going to get replacements, the process will be much less stressful on you. However, your fish that survive will be weakened by the ordeal and may start dropping off later, after your tank has been well established. They will seem like "unexplained" deaths.

Don't take this the wrong way, but I chuckled when you said you have all the fish you want and are done - I'm afraid you'll be buying more fish sooner than you think. I don't mean to be a downer, but since this is the first tank you are doing by yourself, mistakes will be made and fish will die. It's a rite of passage. :ssmile:

[Swifterz]

Hi all.

Swifterz, I was looking at your fish selection:

Tiger Barbs (4)
Black Skirt Tetras (4)
Black Mollys (4)
Red Wag Platys (4)
Iridescent Sharks (2)

... and the one thing that struck me is that the Barbs and Tetra like moderately soft / acidic water, where your livebearers need harder neutral - alkaline water.

IMHO you should stock with fish that enjoy the same water parameters. Anyone agree?

PS: Lovely pics!!!

that was the list from my last tank. althought it is similair, i no longer have the mollys. i do still have platys and i believe they are livebearers correct?

i now have bala sharks, id sharks, black skirt tetras, white skirt tetras, tiger barbs, and platys.

[Wetpets]

I don't know the ID sharks, but yes the Platys are livebearers. While they will 'put up' with soft acidic water (that your other specie with absolutely thrive in) they prefer neutral Ph to moderately hard water. It may be fun to set up a breeder for your platys? LFS's are always looking for livebearers, so you may be able to trade for food / equipment etc... in a few months!

[Swifterz]

well, the sharks are showing signs of ich. they are acting completely normal, but they do have a few tiny white spots on them. i checked the tetras, platys and barbs and there is not a spot to be found on them. i added some salt cause that's all i had last night. i need to turn up the temperature correct?

[jaysee]

It's gonna be hard to treat them and do water changes at the same time. Turning the temp up over 80 speeds up the life cycle, which is important because the medications only work on free swimming parasites, not the cysts. If you don't treat to completion, the cysts will hatch and you'll have another outbreak on your hands.

I would do a really thorough gravel vac to suck out any cysts in the substrate first.

Ick is an indication of both poor water quality (cycling) and stress (again, cycling).

[Swifterz]

i've had fish in the old tank get white sports before and i didn't even know what it was. i didn't really do anything and they all lived and the spots went away. i need to take care of this though. what exactly should i do?

[jaysee]

Ick also runs rampant in overstocked tanks, IME, and I think you may have added too many fish too quickly. Also, your tank is only going to get more crowded as the fish grow.

I think I read that tetras are sensitive to ick medications, so you may want to look into that, but I would begin treatment immediately before it spreads to the rest of the tank.

[Swifterz]

Ick also runs rampant in overstocked tanks, IME, and I think you may have added too many fish too quickly. Also, your tank is only going to get more crowded as the fish grow.

I think I read that tetras are sensitive to ick medications, so you may want to look into that, but I would begin treatment immediately before it spreads to the rest of the tank.

you're right. too many fish too fast, so here's what i am thinking.... return the 4 black skirt tetras, give away the two red wag platys and return the two ID sharks to my friend. obviously can't return the sharks until the ich has been cured. don't want to infect his tank.

that would leave me with...

3 bala sharks
8 tiger barbs
5 white skirt tetras

[Ashley]

I know you enjoy the sharks, but they are a hard fish to keep because of size, not right now, but soon enough they will grow, and grow biiig! Maybe you should look for something that has similar colour variations of silvers and blacks. I just see these sharks giving you more problems than enjoyment, and in the end, we buy aquariums to enjoy, not stress us out! Maybe get a school of congo tetras (may not go well with your barbs though), or something like that in the future instead of the sharks. Since you have barbs, anything with fancy fins is pretty much out. Just trying to help so you can rest at ease. Hope the ich treatment goes well

[Swifterz]

the store already told me i could return any fish i want within 7 days. i think i am going to take back the 4 black skirt tetras (i like the white ones a whole lote more). then hopefully i can give away the two platys, and return the ID sharks to my friend.

that would live me with 3 bala sharks, 8 tiger barbs, and 5 white skirt tetras, a far more reasonable number of fish for right now. plus this one little demon barb of mine is TERRORZING my ID sharks, nipping the hell out them. the other 7 barbs school and this one guy just runs around on his own bothering my sharks.

i can do without the ID's. i don't want to give them up but i might have to. i absolutely have to have some Balas though, and they won't get quite as big.

[jaysee]

you're right. too many fish too fast, so here's what i am thinking.... return the 4 black skirt tetras, give away the two red wag platys and return the two ID sharks to my friend. obviously can't return the sharks until the ich has been cured. don't want to infect his tank.

that would leave me with...

3 bala sharks
8 tiger barbs
5 white skirt tetras

Inform your LFS that you have a couple fish with ick. They ought to quarantine returned fish, but I think they'll appreciate a heads up.

I would make do with what you'll have left until the tank settles down.

[Ashley]

For now that would be a lot better. I would def get rid of that annoying barb! Especially since he is ripping the fins of other fish. It's just stressing your other fish out, which could lead to tail and fin rot, instead of allowing the ripped fins to heal properly. get some stress coat + as a water dechlor, it has aloe vera which may help the fins heal, along with good clean water. My pleco had some rips and holes in his fins from a previous owner and now they are completely healed beautiful fins (I use stress coat also).

[Swifterz]

Inform your LFS that you have a couple fish with ick. They ought to quarantine returned fish, but I think they'll appreciate a heads up.

I would make do with what you'll have left until the tank settles down.

so return the black tetras but keep everything else for now?

i obviously am not going to give the ID's back to my friend when they are infected. i want to keep the balas, and i can't find any signs of infection on any of the fish besides the sharks.

the ID sharks have lots of spots, the Balas have some that you have to look really, really hard to see. of course white stands out off of black (ID's) way more than it does on silver (Balas).

and i tried for about an hour to get that barb out. he was making me so mad. i added two more barbs (from 6 to 8) to see if that would change his behavior but it did nothing. the pet store said i could bring him back, but i couldn't catch him. i was out of town yesterday, and when i got back i got a bigger net, so i'll have to try again tonight. i'd like to return him and the 4 tetras.

[jaysee]

You'll need 2 nets, most likely.

[Swifterz]

You'll need 2 nets, most likely.

i have two now.

and were you saying i should keep all the fish in there and ride it out? or were you saying return the 4 black tetras and nothing else?

[jaysee]

I meant get rid of what you can to alleviate some of the stress and load on the system.

I can't remember - what stage of the cycle are you in?

Also, you may be running into problems due to underfiltration. As I said earlier, I think you need at least another 100 gph, if not 200. 330 is just not enough for a 55.

[Swifterz]

I meant get rid of what you can to alleviate some of the stress and load on the system.

I can't remember - what stage of the cycle are you in?

Also, you may be running into problems due to underfiltration. As I said earlier, I think you need at least another 100 gph, if not 200. 330 is just not enough for a 55.

i will return 4 black tetras and the 1 demon tiger barb, but i won't be able to return any fish today unfortunately. i have something to do right after work and by the time that is over the store will be closed. the tank has been running about 10 days i suppose. thanks for all your help.

[Swifterz]

couple things. the heater i have must be too small to heat this tank, because the whole time i have not been able to get the temperature over 70 degrees.
my friend just set aside another heater he has. he says it's bigger. do i use both heaters or what? also, i know this is probably a very stupid question, but if i were to use both heaters on opposite sides of the tank, do i have to worry about the temperature increasing too rapidly? i mean i can keep an eye on my thermometer so it should be ok, but still...

also, do you think this ich outbreak is a result of my tank "spiking" during this part of the cycle phase, too many fish, or both? i just want to cure it. i wish i had a way to return those 5 fish today, but i won't be home until well after the store is closed.

[Sharon]

Ich outbreak may likely have been caused by the low temps...add the other heater, but it will need to be a higher wattage to maintain proper temp.. Temp should be 78ish, and the temp will not rise too quickly....

[jaysee]

There's nothing wrong with using multiple heaters rather than one big one. I think it makes for a more even heat distribution, which is why I use 2 on my bigger tanks. Also, it's better to have a heater that's more powerful than needed rather than risk using an underpowered heater - which will constantly be running.

I would run both, and like sharon said, raise the temp slowly. For that 50 gallon, you should have 250 watts minimum.

[Swifterz]

unless the heater says somewhere on it the wattage, i have no way of finding out what it is. it's the same one i've had forever. it has a dial to turn left or right, but i didn't even know which way was up and which way was down. there are no numbers on it.

i'm glad to know that maybe the low temp could have caused the ich, because i can cure that pretty easily i believe. i will swing by my friends house and pick up that heater and have it in the tank tonight, then return some of the fish tomorrow.

[Swifterz]

soooo i added in some salt last night. now...


return a few fish
turn up the temp
get some ich treatment


should i do a water change at this point and if so how much?

[jaysee]

Do a massive (75%) water change, thoroughly vaccuuming all the gravel, then start treatment. Remember to take out the carbon. Follow the medication directions and you schould be in the clear soon.

[Swifterz]

Do a massive (75%) water change, thoroughly vaccuuming all the gravel, then start treatment. Remember to take out the carbon. Follow the medication directions and you schould be in the clear soon.

i don't even have a gravel vaccum, and have never used one. if i do that large of a water change (keeping the fish in there), then pour in 35 gallons of new, untreated water isn't that going to shock them? the water will be straight out of a hose and have chlorine + whatever else in it. and what do you mean when you say take out the carbon?

[wolf_eyes]

When you do a water change you always have to treat the water, so even when you would do a massive water change you ha e to treat the water. As long as you add the dechlorinator as you pour water, just after or just before in it will be ok. Also if you don't have live plants you really should have a gravel vac as the fish food and poop in the gravel really foul up the water.

[jaysee]

Carbon in the filter will remove all the medication you are adding to the tank, preventing your fish from getting better. If you use a cartridge, you'll need a filter pad to provide mechanical filtration.

Gravel vacs are a MUST and will significantly improve your water quality. The python is the product to get, and IMO is the most important piece of equipment I own. Before you spend any more money on anything fish related, spend $30 on a python.

You are right to be concerned about shocking the fish, and if you do a large water change with water that is much different temperature, disaster is sure to follow. Another reason to get a python - temp. control.

[Swifterz]

so yesterday and today, to start the process of curing the ich...


got water temperature to approximately 80 degrees
removed all plants and decor for cleaning
thoroughly cleaned the gravel with a vaccum
did a 50% water change (treated new water)
returned 4 black skirt tetras


[Only Registered Users Can See Links.]

when i returned the tetras, they actually gave me more for them than what i had paid. they said they had to because that's what it did in their system. but they said i had to exchange them for something else in their store, so i came home with this guy.

[Only Registered Users Can See Links.]

a 3" Rainbow Shark that my 3 year old son has already named "Ember". i didn't really want to, but they gave me a guarantee. he's floating in the bag in the pictures.

the sharks already lost the white spots save for one or two you can barely see. the ID's did have them all over them. i only lost one fish, a tiny little tiger barb.

DOWN WITH THE ICHNESS!

[jaysee]

FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS and complete the treatment! Just cause all the spots are gone does not mean you are in the clear.

[Swifterz]

thanks jaysee. you have been very helpful.

i have pretty much decided to go with fewer, but larger fish. i am giving the two platys and 4 tetras away, and i am returning the iridescent sharks to my friend. that will leave me with...

3 Bala Sharks
1 Rainbow Shark
6 Tiger Barbs

hopefully by the time the Bala Sharks get 6" or so, i will have the cash/space for a larger tank.

another question, what about some gouramis? they seem like they would be good in my tank. they are colorful and peaceful. any potential problems adding them in with my rainbow shark and tiger barbs? and is my tank big enough?

[jackson17]

Your barbs will be all over the gouramis fins and nip them.

[Swifterz]

Your barbs will be all over the gouramis fins and nip them.

that's no good. thanks for the info. i guess i have to decide whether i'd rather have the barbs or the gouramis.
even though they get big, would about 3 pink kissing gouramis work in my tank? (if it didn't have the tiger barbs).

[jackson17]

I think the pink kissers are slightly different then the other gouramis. They don't have the long flowing antenna things. They do though get fairly large, around 12 inches. So as they might work because they don't have the long flowing antenna things, they will get big.

How long until you upgrade your tank?

[Swifterz]

I think the pink kissers are slightly different then the other gouramis. They don't have the long flowing antenna things. They do though get fairly large, around 12 inches. So as they might work because they don't have the long flowing antenna things, they will get big.

How long until you upgrade your tank?

unfortunately i don't forsee myself getting a larger tank any time soon, maybe never at all. i want my tank in my living room, and the wall i have it on right now is 50". the tank is 48" wide so it fits the spot like a glove.

like i said, i have decided to go with fewer, but larger fish. i am getting rid of almost everything in there. i would LOVE to have another species of fish that get around 6" or so to go with my Balas and my Rainbow but i want to make sure my tank is ok for them.

i have also looked at clown loaches but i'm guessing my tank would be far too small for 3 or 4 of them..

[jackson17]

Don't want to be the bearer of bad news but, the 55 gallon tank is to small for the balas. =/ Either the tiger barbs, or some other gouramis would be good that you could build a community tank around.

The balas need to go if you don't see your self getting a bigger tank

[Swifterz]

Don't want to be the bearer of bad news but, the 55 gallon tank is to small for the balas. =/ Either the tiger barbs, or some other gouramis would be good that you could build a community tank around.

The balas need to go if you don't see your self getting a bigger tank

i am going to keep the balas and the rainbow. i have/am getting rid of everything else but those i am keeping.

if i were to get some gouramis, what kind and how many would you suggest? and don't they come in a whole lot of different colors?

[jackson17]

They get to big for your tank. They need much bigger tanks. They get around 14 inches and are very active. They are going to get bigger then your tank is wide making it hard for them to turn around.

If you keep those, you can't get any other fish, and even then, eventually they will outgrow your tank and start to fight, die or get diseased.

The rainbow sharks can probably work, as they only get about 6 inches, but the balas cannot work under any circumstances in a 50 gallon tank.

[jaysee]

i am going to keep the balas and the rainbow. i have/am getting rid of everything else but those i am keeping.


The man knows the fish are going to get too big; he's heard it a hundred times. There's no need to keep telling him. He's decided to keep them and that's that. Let him have his fish and stop the harping.

[Swifterz]

The man knows the fish are going to get too big; he's heard it a hundred times. There's no need to keep telling him. He's decided to keep them and that's that. Let him have his fish and stop the harping.

thank you. like it has been said, it's a way better situation than if i put like 5 balas in a 10 or 20 gallon tank, as a lot of people do. my friends have tanks the same size as mine or close with bala sharks and other large fish and all of them are happy and have been living a long time. it's not like i'm torturing them. 55 gallons will be plenty of space for a long time. if they get huge, then yes i will have to figure something out. but i should be good for a long time. i've taken the advice you all hae given me on the iridescents, and also am trying to clear up space for the fish i've decided i absolutely want (the balas and the rainbow) by returning or giving away the fish i don't have to have.

[jackson17]

I by no mean ment for anything hostile. I'm just telling you the un-likely truth of the matter. You know what is eventually going to come, be prepared. What you do, I have no control over, I just give the advice, and you do what you want with it.

Good luck caring for the fish. Its a fun thing to do once they start getting a personality.

[Swifterz]

I by no mean ment for anything hostile. I'm just telling you the un-likely truth of the matter. You know what is eventually going to come, be prepared. What you do, I have no control over, I just give the advice, and you do what you want with it.

Good luck caring for the fish. Its a fun thing to do once they start getting a personality.

noooo i have no problem with what you said or how you said it. in reading back i realize it may have sounded that way. i appreciate your input. i even realize you are right. it isn't ideal for me to keep the bala sharks.

[Swifterz]

i'm not good at photography, but here's a couple pictures i took today.

the bala sharks hanging out

[Only Registered Users Can See Links.]

my rainbow shark and one of the tiger barbs

[Only Registered Users Can See Links.]

[Red]

[Only Registered Users Can See Links.]

[Inspiire]

This is a good example of first-time-tank-fun. Set up a new tank, and immediately fill it with fish and items. But, we all have to start somewhere! Your a good sport, despite all the constructive (sometimes harsh) critism.

Next time,

-Plan what type of fish you want
-Cycle tank before you add
-And make sure slected fish can coexist. (Aggression, Water Parameters, Size, Country Origin, etc. All these vary from species to species)

If I were you, I would get rid of all the fish I could. Get rid of all the fish. (I know it may be hard, but it will be worth it in the end) Plan what type of fish you want, and research, research, and do some more research.

You said you wanted fewer, larger fish. But, you bought Tiger Barbs too fast, and now you are stuck with them. Goes back to the planning in the beginning.

We all start somewhere, and good luck in the future for the tank. When I started fish keeping, I set up my 44G and stocked it with like 20 Guppies, 3 Mollys, 4 Platies, and 2 Black Skirt Tetras. I had no knowledge of a "cycled tank" and suffered from it shortly after. I had a severe outbreak of Fin Rot which destroyed half of my Guppies. Luckily, they were all replaced by Petsmart for free. I treated the tank with meds, and the remaining Guppies survived to live a long life. About 4 of those Guppies lived to be around 2 years old. I'm happy to say, those 4-5 Guppies and both of the Black Skirt Tetras are still alive, and living a happy old age in my Nephews 10G tank. He is only 2, but is learning how to take care of them. I was blown away that they lived that long, and I keep expecting them to kick over any day now. But they solider on.

I too have been eyeing your centerpiece. Its a nice looking piece.

[Swifterz]

This is a good example of first-time-tank-fun. Set up a new tank, and immediately fill it with fish and items. But, we all have to start somewhere! Your a good sport, despite all the constructive (sometimes harsh) critism.

Next time,

-Plan what type of fish you want
-Cycle tank before you add
-And make sure slected fish can coexist. (Aggression, Water Parameters, Size, Country Origin, etc. All these vary from species to species)

If I were you, I would get rid of all the fish I could. Get rid of all the fish. (I know it may be hard, but it will be worth it in the end) Plan what type of fish you want, and research, research, and do some more research.

You said you wanted fewer, larger fish. But, you bought Tiger Barbs too fast, and now you are stuck with them. Goes back to the planning in the beginning.

We all start somewhere, and good luck in the future for the tank. When I started fish keeping, I set up my 44G and stocked it with like 20 Guppies, 3 Mollys, 4 Platies, and 2 Black Skirt Tetras. I had no knowledge of a "cycled tank" and suffered from it shortly after. I had a severe outbreak of Fin Rot which destroyed half of my Guppies. Luckily, they were all replaced by Petsmart for free. I treated the tank with meds, and the remaining Guppies survived to live a long life. About 4 of those Guppies lived to be around 2 years old. I'm happy to say, those 4-5 Guppies and both of the Black Skirt Tetras are still alive, and living a happy old age in my Nephews 10G tank. He is only 2, but is learning how to take care of them. I was blown away that they lived that long, and I keep expecting them to kick over any day now. But they solider on.

I too have been eyeing your centerpiece. Its a nice looking piece.

i should have thought more about what i for sure wanted before i started buying fish. but i did for sure want bala sharks and the tiger barbs, and i'm sticking with those. the ID sharks and the platys i already had. i love my rainbow shark, for sure am keeping it. the tetras i could do without. i'd say that's the only ones i regret buying. i have been careful as far as the cycle. i haven't lost a fish yet. my friend recently came over with all his water testing stuff and he says my results were good. and all the fish in my tank right now are getting along great. every now and then if a barb swims past it's rock, the rainbow shark will chase it out. that's about it.

[Jacko]

So help me to understand...

You plan on getting bala sharks and tiger barbs, keeping the rainbow shark, ID sharks and platies? You have been told that 2 of those will get far too big for your tank... the balas get up to 16 inches and the ID sharks 3+ feet... For a non aggressive tiger barb school you'll need at leat 8... Bala sharks are schooling fish as well and should be at least 5...

so right now it's:
2 platies
2 ID sharks
5 bala sharks
8 tiger barbs
1 rainbow shark

A couple things irk me...
are you deaf?
What type of filtration do you have?
What are you exact numbers on your tests (you can't say you're careful with a cycle without knowing the numbers, and pretty much having fish when you're cycling the tank points to carelessness), IMO, I wouldn't take the word of your parameters being good from a guy who's keeping a half dozen ID sharks in a 55 gallon.

[Red]

i should have thought more about what i for sure wanted before i started buying fish. but i did for sure want bala sharks and the tiger barbs, and i'm sticking with those. the ID sharks and the platys i already had. i love my rainbow shark, for sure am keeping it. the tetras i could do without. i'd say that's the only ones i regret buying. i have been careful as far as the cycle. i haven't lost a fish yet. my friend recently came over with all his water testing stuff and he says my results were good. and all the fish in my tank right now are getting along great. every now and then if a barb swims past it's rock, the rainbow shark will chase it out. that's about it.

Did you listen to anybody? Did you retain any information? Did you read any of the posts people made? Did you even consider it? The tetras were your only good choice of the tank. I think by now, this has to be a joke. If its not, then it you should really listen to the people on this forum, not your friends, not your local fish store, not your mom, us on the forum. Why? Maybe because they have the same amount of years (yes years) as how many days you have been keeping fish. I usually never get mad or frustrated with newbies, but nothing gets as more frustrating as someone who won't admit there mistakes, and try to fix them.

[Swifterz]

i guess i should apologize for not doing it your way. i'm not some child. i'm 26 years old with a career, a wife and a son.

i have kept a fish tank before, a couple actually. the 20 gallon i just had housed black skirt tetras, red wag platys, black mollies and tiger barbs.

the ID sharks were given to me and they lived in that 20 gallon tank with all the other small fish for about 6 months with not one problem, but to here everyone hear tell it they should be dead by now.

i realized this wasn't ideal for my sharks, and also i was told, perhaps misled, that i needed a 40 gallon tank to get some bala sharks. this is the main reason i got a 55 gallon tank.

the bala sharks were purchased BEFORE i ever came here and found out that they were (supposedly) the worst idea ever.

after listening to everyone here, as suggested, i realize the ID's must be moved out my 55 gallon tank, even though they were fine for as long as i've had then in a 20 gallon. so how can you say i haven't listened to anyone here or followed their advice?

platys are fine in a 55 gallon tank. tiger barbs are fine in a 55 gallon tank. the rainbow shark is fine for a 55 gallon tank. i'm keeping the bala sharks for the time being. deal with it.

i will admit i don't know a lot about this stuff, but i'm trying to learn. and i have in fact read and listened to everything that's been discussed here, so i don't see why you seem to be so frustrated and say that i haven't.

[Jacko]

I don't think age or the amount of years or tanks you've kept before matter... it's the experience and learning that you develop in those years that matter. You don't have to apologize for not doing things our way, you're a grown man and can make your own decisions, just don't expect anyone to accept and congratulate you for what you are doing, the real apology needed here is one for wasting people's time.

You're 26 and have past experience, and you're still trying to keep balas in a tank 100 gallons too small for them... makes me wonder what went into those previous years. You say you'er listening to what we say, you also said you decided before coming here you want Bala sharks, we've told you that bala sharks aren't compatible with your tank and yet you're still keeping them... that doesn't sound like listening to me!

Face it, the sharks need a new home, you can rehome them now while they're small and easy to rehome or wait untill they become skittish monsters too large for your tank and not a soul is going to want to take them, in the years to come do you really want to be stuck with a half dozen stunted and dying fish knowing that your ignorance put them in that position?

[Inspiire]

Okay guys, you all are talking about him not listening, but some of you aren't either.

He said he was keeping the Bala Sharks until they get too big for the tank, and once that time comes, he will find them a new home.

Its not hurting the Bala Sharks right now. He obviously loves the sharks, and when they get too big, that will be his problem. He obviously realizes the consquences of keeping them and is willing to deal with the problem. Lets stop flaming about the sharks.

Now that thats out of the way, OP (Original Poster) please post a new, updated list of current fish. Also, you said you would settle for fewer, bigger fish. Please include which direction you want to take your tank, and we will try to get you started with a new stocking list.

***Just because we suggest a fish, doesn't mean you should run out and get it. Please wait till you are done cycling before you add any more fish. We know its hard, but it will be worth it in the end. Be patient.***

[mac]

I agree with Alexw, if you are not interested in our advice just say so, and that is that. It is your choice as to what you keep. And how you keep them.
But my question why do you want to keep the fish you have, when with all the advice every one has given, and now knowing you are going to cause them stress pain, and a sad life? Why do that? Because they look nice, or you like them? What ever your answer is IMO you are not being responsible for these fish. If you truly cared you would have listened to the advice that has been given and sorted your stocking out accordingly, and not wasted our time.

So good luck with your tank. And I feel sorry for your poor fish.

mac

[Jacko]

If he's having a difficult time getting rid of the sharks now because he likes them too much, 2 years from now after watching them grow up will his decision be any easier? I've seen this exact scenario dozens of times, person falls in love with a type of fish and has to have it despite warnings and when they become too big for the tank and that person can't get a bigger tank they can't bring themselves to get rid of the fish since they've become practically like a family pet. It's easiest on you and the fish to rehome them before you become attached and find a different fish that you can enjoy for the entirety of it's lifetime.

[Inspiire]

I'm not saying it wouldn't be hard. He obviously already thinks of them as family pets, and doesn't want to get rid of them. That will be his problem, not ours.

If he rehomes the sharks good, if he doesn't, it will be up to him to provide them with a good home. I'm sure he accepts the responsibility to do so in the future.

Lets move on to another issue in the tank.

[mac]

Amen Alex. I now the feeling so well. And it is a pain. And very true. Every one gets attached to their fish, and once it is time for the fish to be shifted it is very hard to move them, and more so to some one else house. I know the feeling because I had to do the same thing when I first started out.

Trust the advice of the members. We are not talking to read our own post's we are trying to help you not have problems in future, and so that your fish can be happy.

mac

[fins_n_fur]

It's time to close this thread. There has been plenty of solid, good advice given many times in the course of 10 pages of posts.

@Swifterz - You have asked a lot of questions and you have received many good answers and excellent advice. You might think want to re-read the thread and reflect upon what you think fishkeeping, meaning responsible fishkeeping, is all about.