Loaches Online Forum

Hello..,

I have just recently acquired two Schistura Mahnerti, or something similar. They have been in QT for about three weeks now with no problems whatsoever, and I have no doubt they will pass through the remaining week or so with flying colours and move on to become permanent additions to my main tank.

Not knowing they were Schistura when I bought them, this changes some things, and now that I know who they are, I would like to try to create a more ideal environment for them.

The main tank is planted and is 55 Gallons. It sits on a continual basis at around 73F, thanks to a Stealth heater.
It is presently filtered by an Aquatech 30/60. (HOB)
There is a large air stone run by a Tetra Whisper Pump.
pH: 7.4
Ammonia; slightly over 0 (hard to tell because I use Prime as a water conditioner).
Nitrite 0
GH: (the very first drop I added <Nutrafin drip test> coloured the water blue, telling me the GH is at or below 20ppm.
KH: between 30 and 40ppm
My community uses Reverse Osmosis for the water.
Nitrates I have not yet tested
The inhabitants so far are:
2 Adult Weather Loaches
1 Juvenile Weather Loach
3 Kuhli Oblonga (they were in an unheated tank at the LFS)
2 Golden Barbs
3 Tetra (they have done excellent despite the lower temp)

My concern is now that I would like to create a bit more current for the Schistura. I was thinking of adding a powerhead, and wondered if any of you have any reccommendations for what kind of powerhead to use, and how I would go about setting one up. There is another concern I have and that is that I will no doubt be moving in the near future, (for which I will open another conversation) and I could use this time to redesign the tank. Any tips you may have to add will be welcome.

Thanks!
soul-hugger

You might find this useful......

http://www.loaches.com/articles/water-m ... h-aquarium

Martin.

There are many species of Tetra, so it is not surprising that some will do well at relatively low temperatures.
I have several Koralia power heads. They create a wider flow pattern that would work well in a planted tank. I would put it rather low on the end wall and aim it toward the middle front. Adjust it so it does not kick up the substrate, or, even better, put a couple of large rocks (smooth, rounded rocks, 3" - 6" in diameter) right where the water from this power head hits.
The filter you have is under powered, but probably works OK so your tank does not lose too much CO2. I would not use it on a tank much bigger than a 30 gallon, though.

Your other fish will likely enjoy a little more water movement, too.

Thank-you, Martin and Diana...

Once I move the Schistura from Quarantine, I can also add the filter from it, and this may help until I can afford another filter. This time I may not be so hasty and save the money until I can afford a good one. The position I'm in right now is not a good one and I have to save the money for moving.

But I do think all the fish in this tank would enjoy a little current. Once I get done with the move, I might also get some Rainbowfish as well as a couple more Gold barbs, who do like eachother's company. The Tetras that are doing well are Longfin Blushing White Tetra. I originally moved them from my SA Tetra tank because they were showing some mild aggression towards my Black Skirt Tetras, and chasing them away from the food. They even chase eachother, and I can usually find them spread as far apart from one another they can get; one will be in the middle of the tank, and one on each side.

Well, I guess I should get going.., I have to get ready for work. I am working 11am - 8pm, but last night at our meeting we decided to get rid of this shift because it's too long and ruins your whole day. You don't really get done until 8:30 and don't get home til 9 becaue we have to close the store.

Bye for now.
soul-hugger