Have Mercy On Me

[Crazygar]

I recently came received an Eclipse 6 system from a Photo Contest. I happened to win the thing without any consideration what the prize was! Now that I have this tank, I was wondering (please, do not hit me hard) if there is any Dwarf Cichlid that would enjoy such small space.

I have my heart set on Dicrossus filamentosa but I know that a 6GAL (16" LONG X 8" WIDE X 10" TALL) might be on the little side. Is it possible or is it a death sentence committed to solitary confinment.

Gary

[Apistt_ed]

I would say that in the eclipse tank such as yours you've won, congrats on that, may be able to handle Dicrossus depending on the actual fishes. I have found them to be fish that need a larger tank than most other dwarfs because of their aggression issues that I have observed. I would suggest A. borellii as a better alternative to you because they have been kept tanks smaller than yours and successfully spawned also. Their temper is fairly timid, if you can say that about any cichlid, and would look great in an eclipse tank! Make sure to plant the tank accordingly and take pictures!! I love the way eclipse tanks look! best of luck and keep us posted! cheers john

[Crazygar]

I finally settled on a pair of A.nijsseni. As long as I keep up with the water changes, (biweekly if I have to) then I think these will be fine. Folks (extremely seasoned) state that A.nijsseni would be a good choice.

Yes, all my tanks are PLANTED to the max! My 55GAL looks like a giant Aquatic Salad (gotta work on that one this weekend) and my other tanks have ample plants and cover.

Gary

[Mike Wise]

If your A. nijsseni aren't a bonded pair, more likely than not you will end up with only one fish. A. borellii would be a much better option.

[tjnelson44]

I have a pair of A. nijsseni that can't even get along in a 20 long. It was just to small. They got along pretty good after I moved them to a 40 breeder. Another pair I had lived and spawned in a 20 long but there was always a lot of friction between the pair. More than one A. nijsseni in a six gallon would probaly not turn out well.
Trevor

[Crazygar]

I am begining to feel the hot tar.

I understand the compatibility issue is the most important one for Aquaria of a small size. I have been in contact with someone whom has kept a pair of A.nijsseni in a 5GAL for 4yrs now with no conflicts and many batches of fry. Bearing that each situation is different, a "larger" tank will be made available if conflicts and issues due rise.

I understand the importance of larger tanks for our Apistos, but I am in the middle of tearing down my fish room (this means 1 35GAL and 1 55GAL tanks need to be torn down) for upgrades to the electricity and plumbing and new flooring (I hate carpet) put down. I am working on a Colombian Biotope tank in my living room (need some research on A.nijsseni) which I can easily replace A.cacutoides with A.nijsseni if they fit the biotope (Colombia) parameters.

The Eclipse6 was (and is the first) something I won! I have such an urge to have Apistogramma, that it will eventually drive me insane. The consideration of placing a pair of A.nijsseni into a 6gal tank comes from measurements, tank conditions and information based on the myth of "Desktop Cichlids".

But as I stated I am ready to move (if necessary) if problems do arise. As usual, I will keep a journal of my progress. Starting from Tank Creation to moving in its citizens.

Gary (just plain stubborn)

[tjnelson44]

I was just sharing my personal experiences with nijsseni. Some fish have unique personalities. Mine are exceptionaly nasty. It is not impossible to do what you want to do, it just can be very difficult depending on your fish. I have also heard of people having success with nijsseni in small tanks but this is not the norm. As long as you are ready to move them to another tank if things turn nasty, go for it. There are things that can increase your chances for success like really heavy planting, lots of structure, and target/dither fish. Something that has worked for me to protect the female from the male was to add lots african drift wood over a sandy substrate. I introduced the female two weeks before the male. By the time the male was placed in the tank, the female had excavated a series of tunnels under the wood. When the male got nasty, she had numerous escape routes and hiding places were he could not follow. I hope your project goes well, good luck.
Trevor

[Crazygar]

Some fish have unique personalities. Mine are exceptionaly nasty. Joy. Yeah, my American Flag Fish are "supposed" to have horrible tank manners, yet they are the most docile fish I have ever owned!

Yes, each fish has its own unique personality. I am hoping that my Female/Male are docile!

It is not impossible to do what you want to do, it just can be very difficult depending on your fish. I have also heard of people having success with nijsseni in small tanks but this is not the norm. As long as you are ready to move them to another tank if things turn nasty, go for it. I'm always up to the challenge, and yes, if things turn out for the worse, I have a backup tank in which they will be placed to possibly satisfy the "cramped" quarters behaviour. I am sure that most "unwanted" behaviour come from closed quarters, but I am willing to give it a shot. I hear conflicting reports from different people.

My information and research states the A.nijsseni comes from Southeastern Colombia so that will satisfy the "Colombian" connection. If all is worse, then its time to move into the BIOTOPE tank (might be a better idea down the road anyways) where they will have 53GAL of play room.

There are things that can increase your chances for success like really heavy planting, lots of structure, and target/dither fish. I am all ABOUT planted tanks. The denser the better. Mainly Anubias barteri var.nana, Stargrass, a few Crypts tossed in for leaf shape and L.aromatica. As for structure, rocks and wood placement is a definate must. Looks like I will be going with Onyx sand as opposed to Flourite.

For TARGET/DITHER, what you suggest? 3 male guppies? Or 3 female guppies? I do not wish to sacrifice my Otocinclus (cleanup) for targets. I will be supplying some Ghost Shrimp for live food on occassion to keep them happy.

Something that has worked for me to protect the female from the male was to add lots african drift wood over a sandy substrate. I introduced the female two weeks before the male. By the time the male was placed in the tank, the female had excavated a series of tunnels under the wood Sounds like a great piece of advice, thanks Trevor. I will definately go this route when adding the Apistos to the tank. Female first and then 2 weeks later the male. I'll chat with my dealer about keeping the Male (will pay for him though) another 2 weeks while I acclimatize the female. I should have no problem with this.

Actually, you have some great pointers and ideas. Thanks again!
Gary

[tjnelson44]

I have heard the same thing about flag fish. The only problem I have had with them is that they seem to really like the taste of my wisteria. I have never used the onyx sand but I have heard that it will buffer your water so you might want to look into that. I don't have a specific species of fish that I use for targets. I just throw in what ever I happen to have at the moment that fits the bill. I have never used guppies so I have no personal experience with them, but as I am writing this, I am staring at my girlfriend's planted five gallon guppy cube. The males are not as fast as the females due to the huge tail. I would probaly use females if I were to use guppies since the males might not be quick enough to get away if they are of one of the varieties with really large tails. If you didn't want to leave the male at the store, you could pick up a guppy breader or a breeding net and place him in it. It can also be used to seperate the fish if things get nasty. You could put the aggressive one in the breeder for a week or so to give the other one a break. When they are back together, the other fish may hold its ground better. Keep us posted on the progress. I am curious to see how it turns out.
Trevor

[tjnelson44]

I forgot to mention something. The reason I took the 2 week delay in adding the male to the tank was because he is big and mean. If the fish were of comparable size and the female had the tank to her self for a while then she might give the male a butt kicking when he is added. I guess you could just decide once you get your fish. Best of luck to you.
Trevor

[Mike Wise]

My information and research states the A.nijsseni comes from Southeastern Colombia so that will satisfy the "Colombian" connection.

Wherever you got you information, it should be ignored. A. nijsseni comes from the Rio Copal & Rio Carahuayte, right bank (eastern) tributaries of the lower Rio Ucayali, south of Iquitos, Peru. If you want Colombian species, consider using one of the following: A. macmaser-group species, A. iniridae, or A. sp. Breitbinden. There are others, too, but they aren't common in the hobby.

[Crazygar]

Firstly Trevor;

I have heard the same thing about flag fish. The only problem I have had with them is that they seem to really like the taste of my wisteria Watching their antics (Male/Female) is the closest so far to something similiar to Apistogramma. They are beyond the best little algae eaters I have next to my thriving Otocinclus colony.

I have never used the onyx sand but I have heard that it will buffer your water so you might want to look into that I use Onyx Sand in my daughters 19GAL planted paradise and I have a pH reading of 6.4 in there. Of course, I put peat in media bags in the filter and inject Co2 in there. But I find the Onyx sand more "pleasing" than Flourite. I might just go with the Flourite (I have 1/2 a bag left) and mix it in with some regular old sand. I wish a nice "sandy" substrate (looks more natural).

but as I am writing this, I am staring at my girlfriend's planted five gallon guppy cube. I smell trouble brewing. Fight the tempatation! Yeah, I planned to use a couple of Female Guppies as dithers. Maybe even some White Clouds would fit the bill.

you could pick up a guppy breader or a breeding net and place him in it. It can also be used to seperate the fish if things get nasty. Hmph, another good idea. Kinda use it as a "Penalty Box" (gawd, I miss the Hockey season) for bad behaviour in the tank. I like it.

I forgot to mention something. The reason I took the 2 week delay in adding the male to the tank was because he is big and mean. If the fish were of comparable size and the female had the tank to her self for a while then she might give the male a butt kicking when he is added. I guess you could just decide once you get your fish. Best of luck to you. My dealer always pulls through for me. I will give him some specific instructions on a pair of Apistogramma nijsseni, Male/Female of comparable size and "compatibility", this almost sounds like a dating service for fish "I like water, plants and other fish... dislikes... predators..."

Mike Wise;
Wherever you got you information, it should be ignored. A. nijsseni comes from the Rio Copal & Rio Carahuayte, right bank (eastern) tributaries of the lower Rio Ucayali, south of Iquitos, Peru Hmph, I figured it would be to good to be true. Thanks for the information. Its always nice to know where an animal comes from.

If you want Colombian species, consider using one of the following: A. macmaser-group species, A. iniridae, or A. sp. Breitbinden. There are others, too, but they aren't common in the hobby. A.iniridae are nice. I actually seen these guys at an LFS in Detroit awhile back and I was impressed with the colouration. Thanks again!

Gary

[Crazygar]

After doing MORE research (wow, at least 4-6 hours worth of reading) I have decided, that yes, A.nijsseni would not be suited for such close quarters. Generally, I think my Amano shrimp would be the first to perish under the wrath of the A.nijsseni in the tank.

I have decided on wild A.borelli pair as my Apisto choice for the tank. They are more hardy and will acclimatize better to the tank. From all of the reading and responses here (and on another forum), A.nijsseni are not exactly the beginners Apisto. My stubborness was driving me mostly to this decision. After some rational thought (and research), A.borelli is more suited to the parameters.

I will keep everyone posted on the progress of the tank and fish when they arrive.

Gary

[Crazygar]

Ok, the tank has arrived and already been modified. Yeah, the 6GAL Eclipse is quite an impressive little tank. I think a pair of A.borelli will do fine in here.

Since folks in eariler responses wish to be "kept up to date" this following thread consists of lots of reading and finally pictures at the end. Here goes..

- The Tank -
The tank, measures roughly, 16" long, 8" wide and 12" tall. My previous idea of Aquascaping will actually fit in this tank. It comes standard with an 8W 12" NO (Normal Output) Fluorescent light and Mini-BioWheel filtration system. Acrylic and lightweight, the entire tank weighs about 3lbs!

- Lighting -
My original idea consisted of serious high light plants such as Limnophllia aromatica (which I keep in my 19GAL and are truly beautiful plants) and Lobelia cardinalis (Cardinal Flower which I grow from seed). Both these plants need at least 2.5WPG to prosper. STOCK lighting for an Eclipse6 is 1.1WPG and judging from the depth, would not be enough for even some of the low light plants.

I purchased a JBJ Clamp Light (PL-CL1-19) from a store in Roseville MI (Oceans and Seas) which gave me an 18W Power Compact Bulb to place over the tank.

Problem #1: The JBJ Clamp Light, even with the "telescopic arms" down at their lowest level is still a good 5" away from the tank
Resolution : I "removed" the "arms" and hooked the light DIRECTLY to the clamp, giving me light RIGHT OVER the tank

Problem #2: The Mini-BioWheel filtration system blocks 90% of light as much as the filter access canopy on the top of the Eclipse6
Resolution : I removed the canopy entirely (right easy) and removed the Mini-Biowheel and replaced it with a Fluval 1+ Internal Filter (mounted horizontal).

Problem #3: The light that comes "standard" with the JBJ Clamp Light is a Dual 10,000K/420nm bulb. Useless for planted tank purposes.
Resolution : I have placed an order for Dual Daylight (6,700K/10,000K) 18W Straight Pin Power Compact

Now, I kept the orignal 8W NO light (only the filter access canopy was removed, which makes the tank 90% covered) to give me an additional 8W of light giving me a total of 26W of light. Doing your math, this gives me 4.33WPG! Definately enough for a NanoPlanted Tank.

- Filtration -
Now that I removed the Mini-Biowheel, I had to replace it with some that will be reliable and make "less" surface agitation! The Fluval 1+ Internal Filter was the perfect answer and size. Placement will be horizontal against the backwall as no to interfere with the Aquascape. I hear grumbling that a "SPRAYBAR" kit exists, I might look into that. At the current moment, the Fluval 1+ is "seeding" in my 55GAL Community Tank.

- Heating -
I plan to purchase a 50W 8" heater for the tank. I am going to set the thermostat at 75F and more or less rely on the lights to warm the tank mostly, with the heater working during only in the night hours. I realize that Apistos like a temp around 68-78, so I am going to find a nice happy inbetween.

- Substrate -
Since it is going to be planted, I had to find something that was suitable (and dark) for the tank. Onyx Sand comes in 20lb bags and so does EcoComplete. Flourite as well comes in the larger bag. Having taking the measurements, I would barely use a 1/3 of a bag of the aforementioned substrates.

Until I remembered -- Laterite! Comes in "Milk Carton" containers! Perfect! Full of the good stuff and nice red colour (oh well, can't win them all!). So, I have purchased one "Carton" for now. This should be fine.

- Decor -
Picked up a cool piece of Driftwood at a LFS in Livonia MI (Pet Connection) in which makes thing look really unique! The wood, with a few rocks will make for some visual barriers and terrority (in 6GAL tank, room is a commodity). Background will obviously be black.

- Flora -
This is the list of plants that will I be planted (have these all in my other 4 tanks) in ApistoTank;

Limnophlla aromatica, Lobelia cardinalis (Cardinal Flower), Heterantha zosterfolia (Star Grass), Cryptocoryne willisi x.lucens, Anubias barteri var.nana (Dwarf Anubias)

- Fauna -
Apistogramma borelli (Male and Female), 3 X Caridina japonica (Amano Shrimp, 2" a piece!), 2 X Otocinclus vittatus

The tank (due to space restrictions and home improvement projects planned for spring) will be on my Kitchen countertop to serve as something relaxing in a room we spend a lot time in. This is just a "temporary" setup until I redo my "Office/Fish Room" into something more suiting (carpeting -- AUGH!).

Here are 2 small pictures of the tank which will eventually house the A.borelli;

Gary

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2004-6/743628/Apistotank1.jpg

And from a distance to give you an idea on the "JBJ Clamp Light"

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2004-6/743628/Apistotank2.jpg

[Joelio]

I'm quite the fan of planted tanks, since i keep one myself. I must say your tank is going to look awesome. I like your lighting alternative you provided. What are you doing for CO2, and ferts??? I can't wait to see the apistos in there :biggrin:

-Joel

[Crazygar]

Still considering the Hagen PlantGRO system, but I am going for "looks" in this tank, so I might have to figure out a Co2 retrofit for the tank. If anyone has a great idea I am all ears.

If not, I plan to dose with Flourish Excel w/Potassium every 2 days. This is the critical part of the tank that I have not quite figured out yet. If Co2 is to work, my internal filter will need that SPRAYBAR kit with the Co2 being injected directly into the "SPRAYBAR". Not sure how to overcome this one.

Gary
BTW:Extremely anxious myself, as this tank will be up and running well before my 53GAL Colombiatope project.

[depthc]

Sounds good but one, wait two thing signal a red flag for me.

For your substrate are you going to be using laterite exclusively? I sure hope not, its great stuff but you will never see the tank clear since its pretty much clay. It will cloud up the tank any time its disturbed. Laterite is perfect but you will need to cover it in some thing such as play sand or gravel whatever you pick.

And you say your going to add shrimp to the tank. The borelli will tear them up and make a great meal out of them so shrimp may be out of the question.

Otherwise everything sounds great. Youve got a good start and you've got a plan so your set. Keep us updated :wink: .

Andrew

[Crazygar]

Ok, what I have done is the following;

Placed a "laterite" layer at the bottom. Then, on top, a gravel/laterite mixture. With a "U" Sand shaped area. The driftwood I just picked up and I am hunting down a good 50W (This weekend) Heater.

The hardscaping is almost complete, getting anxious to "toss in" the plants and get'er rocking for now. Meijer has Hydor 50W submersable heaters for $9.99US so on my way to Sarnia on Mar.26, I plan to pick up a heater!

I still am planning to add a "ROCK" to the hardscape and then start my planting.

The "U" shaped area of sand will settle into the gravel (on the outskirts) while the stuff just "naked" will remain in its current location. Planning to use some "Malaysian Trumpet Snails" for substrate burrowers.

Here is the latest pic of Apistotank with just the 8W "Natural Daylight" bulb on. I plan to follow the current sequence for my photoperiod;

(1) 12hrs 8W "Natural Daylight". 10am in the morning to 10pm at night
(2) 10hrs 18W "10,000K", 12pm to 8pm to simulate MID DAY

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2004-6/743628/Apistotank3.jpg

The sand at the corners kinda overlapped the "GRAVEL/LATERITE" mix. This should settle in leaving on the sand layer visible in the end.

Gary

[Joelio]

For CO2 I recommend the Hagen system. IMO it is the best. Their diffuser is what takes the cake. I think those little tanks are great little things, and make perfect nanos. :)

[Crazygar]

Yeah, the diffuser, especially in smaller tanks, really stands out. I wonder if I could "retrofit" that Fluval 1+ to help with Co2 injection. Another websearch and quest has started.

Gary

[Crazygar]

Ok, at the current moment (March 27th, 2005), the tank has been cycling for 3 days now. I have added plants and here is its (start) of Aquascaping. Mind you, I need another bag of gravel to fill in the back deeper so I can place in more plants and still need to change the 18W PC to 10,000K!

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2004-6/743628/Apistotank4.jpg

And here is a small pic of the plants seen in this "START" picture;

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2004-6/743628/PlantMap.jpg

(1) Cryptocoryne willisi x.lucens
(2) Stargrass (still in the process of planting more)
(3) Cardinal Flower (nice GREEN LEAVES and grown from Seeds)
(4) Cryptocoryne lingua (quite rare)
(5) Limnophlla aromatica

Still wish to fill in the back with another fast growing, dense plant. Considering either "DWARF SAG" and "Hygrophila siamesis" or "DWARF SAG" and "Dwarf Ambulia". Will be another another stalk or 2 of L.aromatica when they mature in my grow out tank.

Gary

[Crazygar]

Sad, that I am responding to my own posts.

The stocking has changed (dither fish) have been added into the fray;

2 X Apistogramma borelli (Male and Female)
3 X Otocinclus vittatus
5 X Neon Tetra

The Neon Tetra seem a more vaild candiate than the Pencilfish option, as I can get a little more and the Tetras will definately school together.

And of course Malaysian trumpet snails for substrate aeration. Also, adding in more plants (adding Water Sprite and "Banana Plant") into the fray to help with Nutrient absorbtion and overall algae competition.

Gary
BTW:Ghost Shrimp will be added but to serve as FOOD (for the Apistos) as much as Janitorial duties.

[Crazygar]

I've added some Beckford's Pencilfish (2) for now, increasing the school to 5 for Dither fish. These guys are also pretty much my "tank cyclers" at the current moment. Still hunting an elusive 18W Power Compact 10,000K bulb, its almost like trying to find treasure!

I will have some updated pictures for the weekend. I have added some Giant Hygrophila (these came with the 2 Pencilfish) and plan to move them when I purchase the plants I wish to have in the background.

Gary

[Crazygar]

My 10,000K, 18W bulb will be arriving this week. I have finally found APISTOGRAMMA! I have a Male Apistogramma (will create an "Please ID Me Post") in the tank. The tank in which it was in, was dominated by larger fish. I figured this was a "Rescue" mission.

Here is a tank update;

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2004-6/743628/Apistotank5.jpg

And here are the plants;

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2004-6/743628/PlantMap2.jpg

(1) Cryptocoryne willisi x.lucens
(2) Stargrass (Heteranthera zosterifolia)
(3) Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
(4) Cryptocoryne lingua
(5) Limnophllia aromatica
(6) Cryptocoryne wendtii (BRONZE)

In the near future (this week), I will be moving ALL Stargrass to the back, and adding more Cardinal Flower to the front of the tank. Also I will be attaching my Dwarf Anubias (Anubias barteri var.nana) to the wood.

In the top picture, a small piece of "Java Moss 'Erect'" has found its way to the underside of the wood. It is my hopes that it remains there, attaches and grows. I am also considering some Ricca to cover the piece of wood.

The Fluval 1+ will be replaced in the future with an Eheim 2206 "Aquaball" with a Co2 modification for tank purposes. Currently dosing the tank every 3 days with Flourish w/Potassium.

10% Water changes each week. Temperature at 25C or 77F

Gary

[aspen]

looks good gary. i used an old style fluval 1 for quite a long time on a 35 gal planted and it was quite ok for the fish i had in there. (tetras apistos etc.) have you got the co2 running yet?


rick

[Crazygar]

At the current moment, no Co2 injection what so ever. I picked up a Hagen PlantGRO system (store going out of business) for $20 so that I can use the reactor, ingredients and tubing to hook into my Eheim 2206 (I ordered this today from Big Al's) Aquaball when I get it.

The Diffuser that comes with the Hagen Co2 systems are just too big and awkward for such a small tank. I want to look in and see plants and fish, not a giant diffuser. Besides, as it being a small tank, space is limited.

Gary

[aspen]

that's the ladder style diffuser right? i bought that thing on it's own, and if you set the flow of the fluval across the ladder just right, about 2/3's from the bottom, and the right distance away, you'll find the bubbles will shrink to nothing before they climb to the top of the ladder, completely dissolving them. it is not a bad product, although you don't really need the bottle and tubing, but for 20 buck you did ok. if the plants are pearling, avoid any ripple on the surface, the plants will produce lots of o2 for the fish. i hid it in the back behind a thick bunch of stem plants.

you can do better on your own for the yeast/sugar mixture though. get it running asap, you'll be glad you did.

rick

[Crazygar]

Funny enough, I am keeping everything but the diffuser. The Eheim 2206 Aquaball (check it out, neato little toy) has a built in diffuser inside the filter. All you do is PLUG in your Co2 line and it does the rest. You can not beat that!

The reason I went with the Hagen PlantGRO as it looks a little more "professional" on my countertop (will be hiding it with plants) that a 2L Pop Bottle (I'd have to go out and buy some Pop and pretty much just pour the CRAP down the drain).

Thats an interesting use of a Fluval1+ on a ladder though. Everyone has such neato ideas eh!

Gary

[Blackshark667766]

I have a truly horrible feeling about this: these fish require much more room than you might have at first imagined. Your calculations while appearing 'sound', actually require to be re-examined in a different light, if I may say so, so politely,




Nick

[Crazygar]

Blackshark667766; firstly, I was born in Motherwell and lived in Overtown until I was 7. Still a UK Citizen

Secondly, I am only keeping "Shark" as the sole Apisto in the tank. Any more is cruel and definately a death sentence for one of them.

Besides the Female Guppy (will be removed after she offloads her babies) all the other fish will serve as excellent "Dithers". I plan, after the removal of the Female Guppy to aquire either 1 or 2 more Pencilfish to complete the effect.

While, on the other hand, wonder if "Shark" really needs those Dithers. He seems pretty "sure" of his surroundings and is not afraid to show himself. He already likes to come to the front when I peer in.

Everyone is entitled to their opinions. Frankly I can resist placing a female (I have found them and just going crazy right now) or 2 into the tank as well. Now when I restart my 35...

Gary

[aspen]

>>'The Eheim 2206 Aquaball (check it out,...'


let me know how that works out for you.

rick

[Crazygar]

--April 8th, 2005

My Eheim 2206 has arrived! I am "priming" it in my 55GAL community tank right now! I picked up a Hagen PlantGRO system for $20 (gotta love going out of business sales) and have modified it for Co2 injection into the Eheim (Check Valve, shortened the tubing distance).

Working on my DIY Bubble Counter to "inform" me when I am low on Co2.

"Shark" is an F0! Or for those whom have no idea what an F0 is (I did not know either until last night) -- Wild Caught. Generation 0. So if I manage to find Females (I have found 2, but do not have the room) and they have fry, the fry will become F1's (Generation 1 Tank Raised).

I've also introduced my Otocinclus (2) into the tank to start with Janitorial and some Malaysian Trumpet Snails that are churning up the sand in a great way!

Gary

--April 13th, 2005

Crap! Crap! After all the work on modifying my Hagen PlantGRO system (Check Valve and custom Bubble Counter), it seems that my choice for internal filtration is not working.

In fact, the Eheim 2206 Aquaball is more bulkier than the Fluval 1+! Not only that, even with the flow rate down to its minimum level, the tank seems to be a swirling vortex of death. The current is wicked strong compared to the Fluval 1+ which I had originally in there. Here are my views on both the filters. I might consider, an external canister (Fluval 103 or 104) instead.

Fluval 1+ Internal Filter
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
PRO: Kept the tank nice and clean. Water output will nice enough to give me some aeration and movement in the tank without creating strong currents. Ease of maintenance coupled with ease of sponge access are excellent.
CON: Extremely long and would either touch my substrate (vertically) or blocked out a large portion of light when place horizontally! This is my main beef with the filter. Its design in which only 2 positions can be achieved.

Eheim Aquaball 2206 Internal Filter
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
PRO: Its unique design enables me to easily inject Co2 into the main "filtration" assembly for "diffusing" before being sent out into the water. Also the ease of adjust the nozzle direction (almost a complete 360) allows complete ease of positioning ANYWHERE in your tank. Maintenance features are nice everything comes apart just as easy as it takes to rebuild
CON: HUGE! Makes my Fluval 1+ seem like a stick! The water output at its lowest level creates MAJOR current in my small tank. Says on the box rated for tanks 12GAL or below. I would not trust this in a tank below 20GAL! Just to powerful of a current for anything smaller than 20!

I feel that EXTERNAL is the way to go. Will be looking into this option in the next weeks. This means that the Eheim 2206 will be going in my 35GAL when I restart! This would be perfect for it.

Truth be told, after hearing all the good about Eheim products, I am totally disappointed. This "small" filter will be capable of handing my bioload in my 35GAL tank!! The current is literally perfect for 20GAL long mountain stream tank!

I will provide a picture of the tank with the Aquaball installed. I do not like it! Either way, my Cryptocoryne willisi x.lucens is being deprived of precious light. Having pretty much exhausted my efforts, I plan to go external and just totally forget about "internal" filtration. This means more modifying of the hood!

--April 14th, 2005

WOW! My wife did not appriciate the "buzzing" sound that the Eheim 2206 Aquaball creates when running (must be really loud in the tank) or the powerful current it creates in the tank. Therefore, it has been removed and placed into my 35GAL which it will become the "primary" filtration unit. And the current it creates it the 35GAL is wicked enough that I have to "lower it"!!!!

I returned my Fluval 1+ to the tank and placed it in a VERTICAL position at the corner of the tank. Also the Co2 modifications have pretty much been deemed useless. I have broke down and put the "ladder" into the tank as well. Oh well, when I photograph it I will remove all the equipment and return it when done. I've managed to hide the ladder behind the Stargrass.

I need the Co2 in the tank as I can see fine filiments of algae growing on the sides of the tank. I also have to "fish out" my final Otocinclus in the 55GAL to keep his buddy company and algae in check.

Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

[Crazygar]

-- April 17th, 2005

The Aquaball has been removed and the Fluval is back (in a vertical orientation). Also the Co2 ladder thingy (I really do hate this thing) is in the tank and the Co2 is going! The pH right now is around 5.8 and seems to have "slowed" down.

I added some "Blackwater Extract" (5mL per water change weekly) to help with things. But I have done something evil -- I killed my poor Otocinclus on contact!

I decided to pick up some AquaFina (RO Bottled Water) from the local Grocery Store. My wife has a habit of forgetting to get me some (pure RO Water) from her lab so I went out and bought this product.

What I did not read was the "ingredients" side of the bottle. As I was pouring it in, my Otocinclus swam into the stream and INSTANTLY went stiff twirling around in the current until he hit the bottom.

And fishing out his recently dead carcass I decided to see what the hell I did that could have killed the guy.... OZONE! Each bottle of Aquafina has Ozone (o3) which would have killed ANY other fish on contact. How dumb is that? I used 4 Bottles (to replenish water removed) to refill the tank!

My Apisto(s) (I think I have a female, could not resist), Pencilfish are all safe. I moved the "Female Guppy" out to my pond with the other Guppies (2 Males, 4 Females) I picked up $1.32CAN today!

--April 18th, 2005

Ok, now I think I have to work on another fish removal. It seems that "Shark" has shown great dissatifiscation on the other "A.gibbiceps" in the tank with him. To make matters worse, I do believe that I indeed (with whole hearted interest on breeding) picked up a "SNEAKER MALE" (An Apistogramma that mimicks a female colouration and patterns when encroaching on another Male's Territory) and therefore "Sparkle" is really "Elton" (eheh).

I did though, manage to pick up some Hydrocotyle verticillata today and its a lovely little bush of green. I also added some Cryptocoryne wendtti "Tropica" to the tank as well. My game plan is to make it 90% planted while using the fish as secondary features.

I also have dropped my photoperiod down from 12hrs of light to just 10hrs at 26W, rather than my "Morning/Day/Dusk" regimin. I can post the "morning/dusk" look with just the straight 8W if anyone is interested.

This is to help my algae battle that I have now. Also, picking up some Otocinclus (3) to "get moving" on the algae. Considering on placing an order for "Otocinclus cocoma" or "Zebra Otocinclus".

It seems that "Sparkle" (my daughter again) is truly an "Elton". Thanks to Mike Wise for ID'ing yet another one of my pestering questions, I have a solid ID for him. I will be moving him to another tank as of Tomorrow. I might even return him to the LFS.

Gary

[Crazygar]

Well, during my attempts to introduce 3 Otocinclus, it seems that I have not "siliconed" my piece of wood quite well. In fact, it popped right off.

Now I have to sand down the bottom and do it right. I admit it was done rather quickly to get the tank going (we've all been there -- right?) and now (as usual) I am going back to fix some boo-boos.

This will also give me the chance to attach some "Anubias barteri var.nana" (which I wanted to do in the first place) and Christmas Moss when it arrives (being mailed in from Iowa).

I have a bit of a problem with "long threadlike Green Algae" I am hoping that my Otocinclus will start working for me. If not, I will have to displace 2 of my 9 Amano Shrimp (really not sure on that) into the tank to help combat the problem I am having right now.

Green Spot Algae is also appearing. Darn, this is the worse one to get on an arylic tank. Going to take a bit of "Elbow Grease" to get things working again. This is the reasoning behind the lack of current pictures (I have one with the Eheim 2206).

I have secured an infinate supply of RO Water whenever I want. I might start doing water changes (5%) every 2 days until the Algae goes down. I am doing my weekly water change (ALWAYS Saturday) tomorrow and replacing with pure RO Water (not AquaFina from a bottle). I usually do about 30%

"Elton" (name has stuck) is proving more of a challenge to catch than anticpiated. Will keep working at trying to "rescue" him from the tank. I might have a couple of leads on Female Apistogramma gibbiceps. If that is the case then the following is going to happen;

(1) The 53GAL "ColombiaTope" is going to have a "FALSE" start. Rather than keeping most of my plants (Crypts and some rare ones) in buckets, I plan to use the "ColombiaTope" tank as a temp home for them.

(2) Both Apistos will be placed into the tank (53GAL).

(3) My pair of American Flag Fish will be housed in the 6GAL. This way, I can accomplish a few things at once;
(i) They are nice and colourful
(ii) They are peaceful
(iii) They are great consumers of Algae
(iv) Its my hopes that they will breed

So, as usual, dilemas and disruptions are bound to happen, and for me, its more frequently.

Gary

[tjnelson44]

Gary, if your are having trouble catching a fish in a planted tank you might this little trick. Take a plastic soda bottle (about 16 oz.) and cut the top of right about were the shoulder meets the body of the bottle. Invert the piece that you just cut off and push it into the bottle so it looks like there is a funnel in the bottle. Place some irrestible food in the bottle and sink it in you tank, make sure the bottle is clean and soda residue free. Mr. apisto can easily swim in since the funnel shape points him to the opening. Once he is in it is not as easy for him to get out. Once he goes in, you can reach into the tank and remove the trap but if you give him to much time inside, he will find his way out eventually. This is similar to the design of minnow traps some fisherman use to catch bait. I have only tried this once and it made it very easy to remove a bunch of juvenile cacatoides from a planted 29 gal. I got this idea from a really good article I read once, I just can't remember were it is to link to it. Hope this helps a bit.
Trevor