test kits ??

[tx_mermaid]

What kind of test kit should I get
I have a 4 week old 55gal with LR. and LS
The kit I have now has dip sticks... it dosnt seem so accurate ....
and what else should I buy inregards to responding to the tests?
I have been taking my water to my LFS and I really want to lean more about this
should I buy some books...which ones are good? UGH so many questions!

 

[parmoffitt]

I would worry too much now. If the LFS is close continue taking your water in to be tested. The strips are good right now. Read the book Conscientious Aquarist by Robert Finner. I didn't get test kits until the tank had gone through it's cycle and until all was clear to buy a few fish. Start VERY slow in adding fish and make sure the fish are peaceful together. A lot of aquarists
loose fish because they put an aggresive fish and peaceful one together. Don't buy too much fish for your tank. Make sure any fish you buy doesn't grow large and requires a super large tank.
That's all I can think of and if anyone has input that can help please do. Hope this helps! :joy:

 

[sepulatian]

Originally Posted by TX_mermaid
What kind of test kit should I get
I have a 4 week old 55gal with LR. and LS
The kit I have now has dip sticks... it dosnt seem so accurate ....
and what else should I buy inregards to responding to the tests?
I have been taking my water to my LFS and I really want to lean more about this
should I buy some books...which ones are good? UGH so many questions!
Test strips are very inaccurate. Throw them away. A decent saltwater master kit is Aquarium Pharmesuticals. It is much better if you get your own kit. Then you can test more often and not have to wory about driving to the lfs every time you have a concern.

 

[tx_mermaid]

Originally Posted by parmoffitt
I would worry too much now. If the LFS is close continue taking your water in to be tested. The strips are good right now. Read the book Conscientious Aquarist by Robert Finner. I didn't get test kits until the tank had gone through it's cycle and until all was clear to buy a few fish. Start VERY slow in adding fish and make sure the fish are peaceful together. A lot of aquarists
loose fish because they put an aggresive fish and peaceful one together. Don't buy too much fish for your tank. Make sure any fish you buy doesn't grow large and requires a super large tank.
That's all I can think of and if anyone has input that can help please do. Hope this helps! :joy:
Thanks for you great advice and I am going to the book store tomorrow

Splashes
~~mer

 

[tx_mermaid]

Originally Posted by sepulatian
Test strips are very inaccurate. Throw them away. A decent saltwater master kit is Aquarium Pharmesuticals. It is much better if you get your own kit. Then you can test more often and not have to wory about driving to the lfs every time you have a concern.

I saw that kit at the store, and wasnt sure when I should start testing... I know now I have some time to learn all I can to make sure my tank is going to be a sucess.....
Slimy hugs and thanks