Being a newbie (just added first piece of LR today), I REALLY REALLY LOVE this thread. It has clarified so many things for me. :cheer: I know a lot more than I did before. I have to get a test for the amonia, nitrates, nitrites, and phosphates yet, but being that I did just add the LR, I have a little time. I have a VERY tiny 2.5 gal setup right now, I need to find a mini-compact light for my hood too. I have black colored marine sand as the substrate.
As for the tests, they make tests that test that stuff in one shot, right? I think I saw something like that on a SW site somewhere for sale. My Ph is 8.2 and my salinity is at 31 and my SG is 1.023.
To help kick off cycling, I know about the shrimp thingy, but what about the commercial bacteria liquid that I heard about? Being that I have such a small setup for now, what do you think?
My LR is really pretty...Looks like a piece of old coral, with pretty pinks and greens. I have a picture, but the flash went off and there is a big glare. I'll try to get another in a few days, when something may be growing or popping out. I cannot wait to see what happens! I do need to get a few smaller pieces of LR. I think. The piece I have is only about 1.5lbs, do you think that is enough for a 2.5 gal tank?
Another question...the filter i have is a whisper brand, came with the tank. I was told and have read that they are ok to use. What's the real deal? :nervous: This one I know makes a great current, and I really don't think that I would need a powerhead with it, especially since I know that I will be changing the water A LOT.
That raises YET another question. Sorry this is so out of whack and not very well thought out but it's late and I am extremely thristy for the knowledge that is "Finding Nemo" and "SharkTale" (our 2 y/o daughter got them for her birthday on the 8th, which is one reason we want to give a SWA a shot...She LOVES Nemo)...Being such a small tank, would the cycling be done faster? or still about the same time, since the ratio of LR to tank size is equal, in theory? :notsure:
Fake plants: (ANYONE HERE) good idea, bad idea? When put them in if ok? Thoughts? Ideas??
I think this will be all I ask for now. I am sure I will have more ?'s down the line here, so....off to bed I go...it is 2am...
Woody, you wouldn't mind me adding you to my Yahoo and AIM messengers? my ID is migraine_fly69 on yahoo and BewtyFull Gurl on AIM...it would help me out
PLEASE ask any questions about my setup if you need clarification, so I can get this going the best I can.
I love this thread!:joy: (sorry so much 2 read....can't wait for this journey...haven't been this excited over something since my daughter was born!!)
