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  L# LITTLE_FISH 125G Log
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SubscribeLITTLE_FISH 125G Log
bensaf
 
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EditedEdited by bensaf
To be honest having tried all sorts of bulbs (At the moment I have a strange mixture of 10,000K, 12,000k and 4,700k) I've never seen anything to suggest that plants prefer one spectrum over the other and certainly nothing to suggest one spectrum promotes algae more then another.

Where the more reddish spectrums do have a problem is penetrating the water, the vast majority of the light is dissapated before it gets down to the bottom. This may cause issues where the lower tiers of plants are not getting enough light and don't grow as well as they could.

This may cause issues but it's an indirect impact rather then a direct "5000k is no good for plants" or "5000k promotes algae" thing.

I'd certainly change it around and have the 6700k on most of the time. If nothing else the tank will look better to the eye.


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Remember that age and treachery will always triumph over youth and ability.
Post InfoPosted 13-Jun-2006 06:48Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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I'd certainly change it around and have the 6700k on most of the time
That is what I did this weekend. Actually, I literally had to switch the bulbs in the unit as one row is connected to the fan (the one that comes on midday when all lights are on) and simply switching powercords in sockets would have meant that the fan would have been on all day. That, in turn, is noisy, a waste of energy, and burns out the fans faster.

I hear you Bensaf on the K not directly causing the algae, but I also read the indirect effects it can have. This makes sense to me and I can assume that the earlier constellation of my lights caused more bottom plant rotting and as such more algae. I guess the switch should help then.

On a different topic: I had to put down the other female rainbow in the QT last night, she was not eating anymore and constantly on the surface . That means that the only fish I lost so far in the big tank (don't count initial loss of Otos) are all 3 female rainbows. Coincidence?

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 13-Jun-2006 10:21Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
FRANK
 
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Hi,
Interesting...
Actually, I would recommend that you run the fan all the
time a bulb is burning. In other words, the exact opposite
of the way you have yours set up. Compact Flourscent
bulbs burn hot. The heat in combination with the humidity
can cause the electrical insulation to become brittle and
crack. Additionally, the heat can affect the clear plastic
pannel that slides between the bulb and the tank (splash
guard).
In my fish room, I run three computers and two transmitters
all with fans, 24/7/365, so I don't even notice the
fan noises.

I suggest that you might want to reverse your thinking on
the light/fan.

Frank


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Post InfoPosted 13-Jun-2006 17:19Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Frank,

Good thinking, but no .

The fixture is designed to have the fans on only when all 4 lights (96w each) are turned on. Heat emission is not an issue with 2 lights only (remember, they form a line and are not paralell to each other) and the smaller units (any single strip PC from Coralife) don't even come with fans.

In addition, the unit is elevated on legs so enough air circulation is present around the lights. And on top of it all, the tank is in the basement that is rather cool, even during hot summer months.

I a room where the Eheim filters hum so quietly that I have to get real close to check if they still work, the sound of two fans is really obvious. Right now, I can hear the bubbles emitting from the diffuser, that is pleasant, in particular if just one floor up the monsters (aka kids) are on the lose.

Silence and tranquility, nothing goes better with fish

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 13-Jun-2006 17:25Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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I suggest that you might want to reverse your thinking on the light/fan

Interesting, I do currently have my fan on all day, only because it's linked to the front bulb of my fixture and I want the bowfront to get the most light possible. I also have a coralife dual cf and it only comes with one fan. I used to have a Current USA fixture that was also dual cf and it actually came with 2 separate fans on their own powercords and it was a real pain to plug in 4 separate fixtures. The coralife fixtures do run surprisingly cool and even with my fixture sitting only an inch or so above the glass top there are no issues. The Current USA fixtures used to run extremely hot even with the two noisy fans running. I have a very low opinion of their products and they can't hold a candle to Coralife.

My Scapes
Post InfoPosted 13-Jun-2006 17:32Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Oh, speaking of brands and the quality of their products:

Nice story, I ordered 3 200W Stealth heaters a little while ago, one for the 40, and one each for the 125 and 29. Before that, I already purchased 2 of them. Overall, I opened 4 packages so far (the fifth is still in the box) and 2 of them had pieces missing (suction cups and holders for them).

So, on Sunday I e-mailed the maker of the heaters stating that issue and on Monday morning I had a reply asking me for my address and that they are going to send out these pieces asap.

Very nice,

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 13-Jun-2006 17:46Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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Nice story, I ordered 3 200W Stealth heaters a little while ago, one for the 40, and one each for the 125 and 29. Before that, I already purchased 2 of them. Overall, I opened 4 packages so far (the fifth is still in the box) and 2 of them had pieces missing (suction cups and holders for them).


That's Marineland right? That could also be a distributor issue also? If the boxes don't have a wrapping on them those little parts end up falling out alot.

My Scapes
Post InfoPosted 13-Jun-2006 17:51Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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No tetratech, that's Aquarium Systems. And the heaters are sealed in a plastic container too strong to be opened with the teeth.

I also told them that, in particular because of the solid packaging that had not been tempered with, I decided not to e-mail the distributer (reseller) but them directly.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 13-Jun-2006 19:29Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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EditedEdited by tetratech
Oh O.K. I thought it was one of those unwrapped boxes with the stuff just thrown inside.

Anyway talk about quality control. I bought a pair of Nike Shox. Actually my wife did because I tore a ligament in my knee and she thought the extra cushion would help. So I'm walking around, just walking and "boom" I go down, one of the shox fell off. So here I am wearing these sneakers to help me and they hurt me. I returned them for another pair and a week later "boom" a shox falls off the second pair. Serious manufacturer defect, so I go back again and the retail store wouldn't take them back because I didn't have my receipt this time.

I don't tink so Let's just say the store was unable to ring up any more merchandise until they reconsidered and gave me credit.

My Scapes
Post InfoPosted 13-Jun-2006 19:43Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Wingsdlc
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So taking care of the customers: At my store the bosses wont carry a product if the the owners of that product wont back the store on issues with it. If the store doesn't get backed then it is hard to help the customers.

Lighting: On my tank I have a mix of fast and slow growers. Much more fast than slow growers. I don't really know what I want to do with the tank yet but I am thinking of putting all the slow growers tucked up clow the fast growers. Hoping that this will kill off any of the spot algea I have been gettng on them.

Rainbows: Are these guys touchy with Ph swings? I have been losing them in my tank really slowly with no signs. In my tank right now the Ph is about 7.2 in the AM before the lights/CO2 come on, about 6.8 at night right before the lights/CO2 go off. Normal Ph for here is about 8.2 or 8.4. Might this be the cause for loss?

55G Planted tank thread
19G Container Pond
[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
Post InfoPosted 13-Jun-2006 21:12Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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tetratech - I can only imagine how you were holding the store hostage

wings - I don't think a ph swing of 0.4 would cause too many fish to die. I recently was at my most trusted LFS and mentioned the loss of all of my females. The guy in charge of ordering said that he loses quite a few of them during shipment. Maybe they are not all that hardy, but he has no explanation on why I may have lost only females. Also, if I remember that right, then females also have a deeper body when they mature. Mine never did and they were rather streamlined. Just maybe I didn't even have female rainbows.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 13-Jun-2006 21:37Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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tetratech - I can only imagine how you were holding the store hostage
Yeah I guess I was kinda holding the store hostage or more like "a fly in the ointment" I was really pissed.

Anyway should I be worried about my Bosemani. How long did you guys have them before seeing problems?

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Post InfoPosted 13-Jun-2006 21:41Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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I have my rainbows since at least 3 to 4 months, I can check for you.

I don't think you should be worried though as all males are doing just great.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 13-Jun-2006 21:44Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Wingsdlc
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Anyway should I be worried about my Bosemani.

I have had two male bosemani's in another tank for about 3 years now with no problems what so ever. Its the dwarf blue neon rainbows that are dropping dead on me. Don't seem to be having too many problems with that at work though. Don't see them coming in dead or anything like that or dropping like flys once we get them. That's probaby why ours are 2.99 a pop and yours are... well a lot more.

How much swing are your tanks running?

55G Planted tank thread
19G Container Pond
[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
Post InfoPosted 13-Jun-2006 23:34Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Currently, juvenile Dwarf Neons are $20 at my LFS.

My swing is probably from 7 just before lights on down to 6.5 before lights out. All normal, as in nature swings occur as well, but actually I believe they occur the other way around.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 14-Jun-2006 00:37Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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I think I paid $12.99 a piece for my Bosemani, 2 for $25.

BTW - My ph is around 6.0 at nite with a kh of 2 or 3. I'll have to test tomorrow morning to find swing.



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Post InfoPosted 14-Jun-2006 03:25Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Wingsdlc
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Tetra,
You are about the same as me for the Bosemani but I should probably start shipping dwarf blues to LF. It would probably be cheaper even with shipping.

55G Planted tank thread
19G Container Pond
[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
Post InfoPosted 14-Jun-2006 14:41Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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It probably would, Wings, I will have to think about that.

Do you folks have females in the store? If so, how do they look different from the males? I would need about 9 females

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 14-Jun-2006 14:51Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Ok,

I have to talk ferts again, sorry about that

While suggesting to someone else here to read up on EI and stuff, I saw that he has an EI "light" for the less techical aspects of the Estimative index article on his site. Curious as I am (), I looked into it and found some estimates for dosing a tank of my size. I then compared it to what I am dosing and find that I am rather way off in certain areas (my values in brackets):

100 - 125 Gallon Aquarium
+/- 1 1/2 tsp KN03 3x a week (yup - right on)
+/- 1/2 tsp KH2P04 3x a week (1/8 - way off)
+/- 1/2 tsp K2S04 3x a week (not at all - way off)
+/- 1/2 tsp (30ml) Trace 3x a week (60ml TMG - double)
50% weekly water change (yup)

What do you think?

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 15-Jun-2006 10:38Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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I have to talk ferts again, sorry about that

You should be!

To what end. To make your algae go bye-bye or to make the plants grow better? If the plants are growing well which I think they are, why do you keep turning to the ferts as the problem. I've changed so many differenct dosing schemes in my tank. Added fe, double my micro dosing, moved up my no3, moved down my no3 not for algae but to see if I could get more red, etc and it didn't affect algae one bit.




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Post InfoPosted 15-Jun-2006 13:12Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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You should be!
- Ok, I am

I don't know for what specific purpose I brought that up, it was just a general observation on how far off I am from the "default" EI values. For example the fact that I dose 1/4 of the P that is set here.

In general, this makes me wonder if what I am doing dosing wise with my tank can actually still be considered "following EI". Or, is EI layed out so broadly that it's only commonality is to have ferts (of all kinds) available to the tank at any point, and as such they are overfed to avoid a short-coming?

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 15-Jun-2006 13:24Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Wingsdlc
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EditedEdited by Wingsdlc
40-60 Gallon Aquariums (figured this was better than the 20-40 gallon)
+/- 1/2 tsp KN03 3x a week (yup)
+/- 1/8 tsp KH2P04 3x a week (yup)
+/- 1/8 tsp K2S04 3x a week (1/2 tsp, ouch)
+/- 1/8 (10ml) Trace Elements 3x a week (umm I have been giving them two 2L caps of flourish, whatever that is.
50% weekly water change (Yup)

Plants grow (yup)
Algea (just a little green spot but I think thats cuz my low light plants are not shaded enough)

Edit: I vote for the lader.

55G Planted tank thread
19G Container Pond
[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
Post InfoPosted 15-Jun-2006 13:57Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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EditedEdited by tetratech
Or, is EI layed out so broadly that it's only commonality is to have ferts (of all kinds) available to the tank at any point, and as such they are overfed to avoid a short-coming?


Yeah, kinda of? LF every plant needs it's ferts, light, carbon, but every tank is somwhat different and how it will react to the available light, shade, fish load, plant mass, types of plants. There are too many variables. You need to find the thing that works for your tank. If the plants are growing well forget the ferts that's for fine-tuning. You must look at light,waste,load to balance tank my young grasshopper.

And after Germany wins in the 90th minute!




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Post InfoPosted 15-Jun-2006 14:10Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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And after Germany wins in the 90th minute!
At least we win

Yeah, but there is a difference between fine tuning and using 4 times the amount of KH2P04 and 1/2tsp of K2S04 or none at all .

How do I know how well my growth could be if I had other fert dosages?

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 15-Jun-2006 16:01Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Wingsdlc
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LF,
Best thing to do is to set it and don't mess with it for months. If you want to change something do it little by little and then run that for a while.

55G Planted tank thread
19G Container Pond
[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
Post InfoPosted 15-Jun-2006 19:20Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
Wingsdlc
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Do you folks have females in the store? If so, how do they look different from the males? I would need about 9 females

Females? Less color on body and fins, and a little fater than the more colorful males? Yeah we have a handful of them.

55G Planted tank thread
19G Container Pond
[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
Post InfoPosted 16-Jun-2006 00:52Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
and a little fater than the more colorful males
Fatter? How about depth? Is the female's body as deep as the male's? I perused the web for female Dwarf Neon Rainbows and while most pictures seem to show males, the few that I found that are titled female seem to show the shape of a male with a different fin coloration.

Now, here is once again a shot of 2 of my rainbows, one male and the other supposedly female. Wings, is that how your females look like?

Ingo

EDIT: While the males over the last few months went from the pictured shape to the deeper bodied adult form, the females never changed their shape.

Attached Image:

Female and Male???



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Post InfoPosted 16-Jun-2006 10:39Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Wingsdlc
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LF,
Yup you have it right. Female on the left, male on the right. Females tend to be a little thicker from left to right or right to left also. Biggest differences are fin color and body height.

I am not sure on a complete count from work but we have a good handful of them.

55G Planted tank thread
19G Container Pond
[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
Post InfoPosted 16-Jun-2006 13:58Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
mattyboombatty
 
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From the pictures on page 91(we going to hit 100 soon?) the tank seems to still be doing nicely. I agree with the statement on EI, that it mostly doesn't matter as long as things are balanced and the plants are getting plenty of ferts. I used up all of my hour( community internet ) just reading the last couple pages in this thread, so the response is short, .



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Post InfoPosted 17-Jun-2006 16:30Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Thanks for the input Wings and Matty

Matty - While the tank is still doing nicely, it is not doing great. I would like to see some changes soon as by now there is very little design left and lots of sucking up ferts going on.

Which brings me to:

Weekly Tank Update - Week 38

Very little to nothing has happened with this tank during this week. It seems that I see a slow come-back of the BBA now that I stopped the Excel treatment for 2 weeks, I believe.

When I look at this tank these days I am getting very restless. I am aware that I have too many fish in there and also that the scape is nowhere near of what I thought the tank should look like. All is pointing towards a major overhaul yet again, but we all know what that did the last time around. Definately the large wood will have to change, in particular the big stomp part of it has to go and most likely the overall position had to be moved further off center.

Otherwise, growth is just fine, this weekend I had to thin out the Hygro group quite a bit as it got too tall and shaded the right tank side way too much. While trimming I also removed some other plants by accident and had to replant them as well.

Here is the tank last weekend, for comparison purposes:

Attached Image:

Last Weekend, Week 37



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Post InfoPosted 18-Jun-2006 12:36Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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And here it is now. Also, two stems of the Alternanthera had to be trimmed (bottoms disposed) as they reached the surface. While it doesn't look bad now, it doesn't look good either

Attached Image:

Week 38, This Weekend



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Post InfoPosted 18-Jun-2006 12:38Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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I am also wondering which plants from this tank will go into the new 40G. There is for sure the Blixa and most likely the 5 Anubias Nana Petites that I have, and also maybe the Java Fern (Narrow Leaf) that is pictured here. I hope this plant will not break when I will try to remove it from its lodged position between the wood and the rock behind it. One thing is for sure, it has grown nicely from these 5 little leaves that it originally was.

Attached Image:

Narrow Leaf Java Fern



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Post InfoPosted 18-Jun-2006 12:42Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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On to a few fish pictures. First off - a rainbow. Although it is not that obvious when you look at these fish in the tank directly, the pictures alway make it clear that they truely have puppy eyes that always seem to focus on the camera (counts for tetratech's rainbows as well).

Attached Image:

Male Rainbow



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Post InfoPosted 18-Jun-2006 12:44Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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I spent about half an hour after this weekends water change searching for my female Apisto. I am always worried that the small fish I have somehow get lost or that I cut them in half when I trim the plants. Fortunately, I eventually found her. She has one of these "mostly hiding" phases that may be breeding related.

Anyway, here is a nice sequence on how male and female communicate these days. This shot shows the moment after the female reaches the back of the male during an encounter. I immediately spreads his fins and shows off all his beauty, but given that the black bar under his eye is not showing I assume it is meant to be a friendly encounter.

Attached Image:

Apistos I



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Can you see how his eye seems to be fixed on her?

Next, as he lets his finnage down a little, the female starts to show off, here is is just about to spread them.

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Apistos II



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And lastly, he follows her signs and spreads his fins again. Then, he dissapears into the plants, but she is not following him. Instead, she has her own area, somewhere in the Anubias realm, where she seems to hang out.

What does that mean? - I have no idea,

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Apistos III



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Last but not least,

In case you wonder (), as I mentioned before, I always have an Anubias (Nana and/or Barteri) in bloom, but most of the time the flowers are not standing out before a dark background and as such don't make for a nice picture. This weekend, I trimmed of 3 flower stems that were pretty much done, I have another one on its way out, one that is coming in, and this one here.

Have fun, as usual input is appreciated,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Anubias Flower



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Post InfoPosted 18-Jun-2006 12:55Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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EditedEdited by TankWatcher
Everything looking beautiful as usual. But don't those apisto fins look especially fine when spread. Very nice

Cheers
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Thanks Robyn,

Yeah, the spread finnage is really beautiful, I agree. He does the same thing when he is telling other fish to stay away from him, except he has a black bar below his eye (running through the eye downwards) in that case. He can turn that bar off and on within seconds (or a second).

Ingo


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Quick comments, becuase it's Father's Day, but if the plants are growing well then forget the ferts, EI is working. I read thread and thread again on APC and other forums where people are running alot of light on big tanks and they can't contain algae growth. 380-400 watts is alot of light and it gives you no room for error. Error is fish load, fish waste, feeding, inadequate biofilter, inadequate plant mass, not enough water changes. Even if you running all the lights for only a few hours a day it will grow algae.

It's really not that complicated once you see the bigger picture.

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It's really not that complicated once you see the bigger picture.


Tetra,
I guess you are saying that LF doesn't get it yet?

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I don't get it



Sure do I hear you tetratech, but I am not going to flush 50 Espei down the drain

Actually, I wasn't complaining about the algae during this posting session, I was complaining about the design of things

Ingo


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tetratech
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Oh I know you get it LF and of course my comments are just that my comments. I was about to respond to Wings by saying when you have a big tank setup it's hard to make big changes to correct a problem.

Right now I have a pretty heavy load in my tank so I'm not exactly practicing what I'm preaching, but there is a difference in how I got to my heavy stocking levels and how you got to yours. I think my stocking levels came at a much slower pace than yours did. I slowly added cardinals 5 at a time, then after months I added the two rainbows and finally the two small rams. As you know tanks always do better with slow gradual changes. That's how nature works it's magic!





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I didn't quite add 100 fish at a time either. When you look at the fish that I added then you would end up with:

- 12 espei
- 3 rainbows
- 2 pearls
- 6 otos
- 2 apistos

And that is it

Not all that much, given about 7 months until all these had been added. If it wouldn't be for the 100 babies then I would be in good shape

Ingo


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tetratech
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If it wouldn't be for the 100 babies then I would be in good shape


100 baby espei
1400 poops between water changes (200 poops per day x 7)
390 watts of cf lighting

= PROTIST ORGY

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Hi,
I was reading Wings' fert listing, and for my 30G tank
I decided to knock down the amounts a tad to use say,
a 1/4 tsp vs the half, etc. Right now, I still have
the cyanobacteria, but, I also now have very fine hair
algae growing at the upper levels with the strands
"flowing" in the currents.. Actually looks nice, but will
soon turn into a problem.

Have any of you guys actually tested your water just
before your water changes to see what kind of nitrate
and phosphate readings you have after adding this stuff
three times a week?
Frank


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EditedEdited by NowherMan6
PROTIST ORGY


Geeeez, a guy goes on vacation for a week and his favorite plant/ fish site turns X rated!

Nice pics as usual, LF. Your algae problem seems to be much more under control now


Back in the saddle!
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tetratech
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EditedEdited by tetratech
Have any of you guys actually tested your water just
before your water changes to see what kind of nitrate
and phosphate readings you have after adding this stuff
three times a week?
Frank


Frank,
Sounds like your "Micromanaging your macros"
LF's plants are growing quite well. I could tell you I fool around with my po4 and no3 dosing all the time for color and growth reasons and it doesn't bring out algae one bit and I've had po4 levels over 5.0ppm (according to the test kits anyway) LF's algae issue is LAW (Light and Waste).

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LF's algae issue is LAW
I like that, sounds somehow good. As in:

"I had no other choice, it's the LAW!"

Thanks NowherMan6 I missed you. Yeah, it is pretty stable now with the same amount of algae, that's why I consider messing with the design again (slapping myself so you guys don't have to).

Frank - 30G, that is net about maybe 25G. I have 5 times the volume and feed 1.5tps 3x per week, and at the end of the week I probably have around 20 to 40 ppm, and maybe 5 ppm of P. But I haven't measured in ages.

Ingo


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Frank,
Last time I checked my Nitrate before the water change I had about 20ppm. I figure thats pretty good up take when I have added in about 33ppm + fish load and over extra food. I will do some testing and get back to you say.... in a week. One big factor I am looking at with this is plant mass ( with fast and slow growers) pluse lighting. I have a ton of fast growers and very few slow growers in my tank. With that I am running 3.25 WPG for about 12 hours/day. This is a little more that most are doing for lighting so you just kind of estimate and see what happens.

Do I get it tetra?

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Gang,

Still having a broken router in the house, and as such no internet access, I was having a little too much time on my hand last evening and decided to add the Rainbows from the QT into the main tank. For the ones that don't know it, and the ones that may not remember, I had 3 Neon Dwarf Rainbows each in this tank and the QT.

So, here is a little picture story:

Moving Rainbows in 9 Acts

Act 1: The Bag

The rainbows were not the hardest to catch in the QT (compared to Espei it was easy). Here they are in the bag:

Attached Image:

In the Bag



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Act 2: The Release

After about 1.5 hours of acclimatization, the rainbows were releases into the tank. They instantly went into semi-hiding at the Pearl Grass all the way to the right of the tank, just below the bag they had been in. This shot was taken about 20 seconds after the last rainbow left the bag:

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Rainbows in Pearl Grass



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Act 3: Starting to Move

2 minutes later the whole group moved out of the Pearl Grass and into the open area to the left of it. They held this position for about 2 more minutes, always in close proximity to each other. The 3 rainbows that are already in the tank did not come anywhere near.

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Moving Out



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Act 4: First Encounter

The first fish to confront the new additions was the male Apisto. As you can see, he was not too thrilled about the rainbows (black bar under the eye is visible, unlike his showing off in recent pictures towards his girl). With him coming from the right there was no other way for the rainbows then to swim all the way to the left of the tank.

Attached Image:

Apisto Displaying



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Act 5: Making Friends

With the Apisto still on their tails, the first meeting of new and a resident rainbow took place. So far, 5 minutes have passed since the rainbows were added. BTW, during all that time (and counting for the next pictures as well, Espei and Pearls ignore the rainbows and are ignored by them).

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First Friend



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Act 6: First Formation

Finally, about 7 minutes after addition, the rainbows found each other and formed a school for the first time (to the backdrop of a 50 Espei school). This was most likely due to the fact that the Apstio was as agressive as I have never seen him before.

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The School Comes Together



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Act 7: Playing in Formation

For the next 2 minutes, rainbows played with the formation, individuals breaking away and coming back, changing positions, and what not. This may be truly the beginning of 2 groups coming together and starting to evaluate the new ranking order.

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Play in the Formation



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Act 8: Intruder Alert

All internal group activity was halted for a while as the Apistos were not yet done with explaining who rules this tank. As you can see, the female comes at them from the front and the male from the back, putting them in a position where a confrontation is unavoidable. And so it happened, the male Apisto made physical contact, nipped at the tail fin of one rainbow and attacked another from the side. I hope that will stop soon. I will be able to validate any damage tonight.

Attached Image:

Apistos on the Attack



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Act 9: The Finale

Whenever the Apistos gave them a break, the rainbows went back into formation. At the time of this picture I felt that the acclimatization was completed as the internal rank fights started. The individual leaders of the two groups were the first to have show-off fights, establishing who is going to be the boss of the new bigger group. I am most certain that quite a few of these fights will still come within the next few days until all is straightened out.

The End

Attached Image:

Internal Ranking Games



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tetratech
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Nice pics LF. I really like the one (2nd from bottom) where the two apistos are on either end.

You know when I first started doing my 72g I swore I would make it an S.A. Biotope, but obviously that didn't happen since I have fish and plants from S. America and Asia.

My Bolivans and now the Rams pay no attention to my two rainbows. The only aggression I see is the rainbows chasing some of the tetras mostly after lights out.

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Post InfoPosted 20-Jun-2006 15:31Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Beautiful pictures of beautiful fish. I have serious camera envy & wish I could take pics like these.

Cheers
TW
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TW,
Feel your pain with the camera issue. But some day soon things might change.

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Hey, no envy or jealousy please,

Or I send you some of my algae issues

Thank you very much for the comments on the pictures. I actually was hoping you would find the story (aka observation) at least to some degree interesting as well

Ingo


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Of course the story was interesting & I hope the apisto decides to live & let live in peace. However, your pics can't help to tell the story, especially the one with both male & female apisto both facing off the rainbow shoal.

Cheers
TW
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Robyn,

I know, the words were only to carify the pictures, in case they didn't make any sense by themselves

Last night there was still the occasional stand-off with fins spread out by the male Apisto, but I have not seen any further physical contact between them. Also, everybody seems to still have all their eyes, a good thing. So I guess that means all is good.

Ingo


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Weekly Tank Update - Week 39

Not much new to report on the tank for this week, I guess things are getting boring now. The only change was the addition of the 3 male Dwarf Neon Rainbows from the QT (yes, I know, even more fish in the tank), all of which are doing well.

There was no major trimming required and all I did was to prune off some of the leaves that had some algae on them (BBA is coming back slowly).

Here is the tank during the last two weeks, followed by a few fish shots and a hint on something (more later).

That was the tank after the last major trim 2 weeks ago

Attached Image:

2 Weeks Ago



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One week later, the Star Grass had grown a little and the Hygro group saw some more trimming as additional stems were removed so that they could help filling up the 40G.

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One Week Ago



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The only trimming done this weekend that was not algae related concerned the Wisteria. A few stems had to be cut because they were growing into the plants near by. These trimmings currently float in the 20G QT as the 40G seems to have enough plants in it.

Here is the tank now:

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Tank After Water Change This Weekend



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Here is a shot of the Espei about 1 minute after the lights in the tank went on. Like almost all fish, they are pretty pale and it takes about 15 min before their bright orange returns. I find fish coloration an amazing thing, in particular when they can change colors at will (like the bar under the eye of the male Apisto):

Attached Image:

Espei in the Morning



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Post InfoPosted 25-Jun-2006 11:59Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Speaking of the Apisto, here is a shot of the male, just for the fun of it and because Robyn just recently got her Apistos (although they are a different species, but never the less somewhat related). He is, BTW, no longer chasing after the Rainbows, I assume they know by now that he is their boss. The only fish in the tank that doesn't think so is the male Pearl, he is completely unphased by the Apisto's prouncing.

Attached Image:

Male Apisto



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Post InfoPosted 25-Jun-2006 12:02Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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And speaking of the male Pearl, here is a group shot of male (on the left) and female Pearls, a rainbow peeking in, and the female Apisto telling all of them to leave her alone.

The male Pearl spends a good part of the day chasing the female Pearl through the tank. I doesn't look like he follows her, it's more like he want's her to go away. Nevertheless, she is always coming back to him. Love? I don't know.

Attached Image:

Group Shot



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And here is the tip (or whatever I wrote on the last page) that I was speaking about. Being the lazy bum that I am, I find the routine of cleaning the glass diffuser rather involved. Bathing the whole thing in a bleach solution, then rinsing it in a Prime solution, and then adding it back into the tank takes time and is to some degree a waste producer (bleach and conditioner down the drain).

Almost by chance, I tried the following:

Having my diffuser rather high up in the tank exposes the top part during water changes for about 15 to 30 min (I will have to time it some day). As soon as the top is in the open I swipe the water off it and drip Flourish Excel on it until it is covered (the area above the plate). And that is it - and what can I say, I haven't bleached the sucker in about 4 t 5 weeks now and it is still clean. You can see the difference from before adding Excel to 20 min later.

Maybe you want to give this method a try, it is better for the environment and seems to work well. I have not done it long enough to conclude that one never has to bleach again.

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Diffuser - New Cleaning Method



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Post InfoPosted 25-Jun-2006 12:13Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
TW
 
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I'm lazy too, so I'll try your tip at next waterchange.

Cheers
TW
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Good idea Robyn,

Let us know how (and if) it worked for you. Try to make sure that you remove as much tank water from the area above the plate as possible, then fill that area (should not be more than about 3ml)with Excel, and let it sit for a while (15 min should do). The advantage on my big tank that it takes at least that long from exposure to refill as so many gallons have to go out and back in.

You could also try to lift your diffuser a little higher for the procedure (to give the Excel more time to do its work without prolonging the water change itself), a complete removal should not be required.

Again, keep us posted,

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 25-Jun-2006 14:08Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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I still think you guys should get an external reactor and forget about cleaning alltogether.



Critical Fertilator: The Micromanager of Macronutrients
Post InfoPosted 25-Jun-2006 16:33Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
FRANK
 
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Hi Matt,
I'm inclined to agree with you, especially when I purchased
a difuser for my 30G tank and the thing flopped. It was
rated for the 20G tank. It came with a suction cup
but the "glass bud" on the side of the difuser won't
slip on and hold the difuser in place. So I tried to
bury the delivery tube in gravel and prop the
difuser upright with a rock, but the tube kept working
up through the gravel. And the bubbles never did change
from one or two big bubbles into the bunches of micro
bubbles. The difuser is sitting in the box it came in.

I have thrown my internal reactor away. It demanded
even more cleaning than the difuser because it was inside
the tank (an eyesore that took up space) and was exposed
to the tank light, it would clog up with algae. To clean
the passages, I needed pipe cleaners, running water, and
lots of patience.

Frank


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Post InfoPosted 25-Jun-2006 16:45Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Little Caesar
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hey!! i just happened to click on this 95th page and saw some pics a few posts ago of your tank. it looks really nice. i really like the yellowish fish with the black dorsal fin that is under your pearl gouramis. since i am not inclined to read 95 pages of posts (LOL), is there any way you can tell me what species that is, because I really like it. is it a dwarf cockatoo cichlid?

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Post InfoPosted 25-Jun-2006 20:27Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Here we go,

I am writing about this great method that I figured out on how to clean a diffuser environment friendly, and what do Matty and Frank do? - Tell me I should not use one

Well, I happen to be pretty happy with mine (in 2 tanks), they are cheap, easy to clean (with Excel ), and look pretty fashionable.

Anyway, thanks for the input to both of you, Matty - I know that you have this cool self-made inline reactor, but I have enough stuff behind the tank and I like the sound of a diffuser.

Little Caesar - Close on the guess of the fish. It is a female Apistogramma viejita II. She is a beauty, isn't she?

On a different note: Would you folks be so kind and look at my 20G Log in the Aquascaping Forum? I have something new there On Page 5. Also, I would appreciate if a Moderator or Administrator who may read this would be so nice and move that log (and please the 29G log at the same location) to this forum. I would really like to have all my logs over here in the Planted Forum, that is more where they belong to. Thanks in advance, to the mods for moving the stuff and anybody else who may add a comment to it.


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Post InfoPosted 26-Jun-2006 03:21Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
mattyboombatty
 
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Anyway, thanks for the input to both of you, Matty - I know that you have this cool self-made inline reactor, but I have enough stuff behind the tank and I like the sound of a diffuser.


Ah LF, I know by now that you have settled on your method of choice, I just like to give you a hard time about it any chance I get. I'm glad you found an easier way of cleaning it, sounds like it makes them easier to use.



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Post InfoPosted 26-Jun-2006 04:17Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
FRANK
 
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Hi LF,
Your wish is my command... Your thread is moved.

I don't recall saying anything about not using the
difuser. I know you, Ben, and others, swear by them.
I cuss at mine. As you read, its never worked right,
won't stick to the side of the tank, and is residing
in a box in the garage. Too bad to, it was an
expensive little critter.

My reactor did not work out very well either. After
several years, I tired of cleaning it constantly. It
was very labor intensive. So I took a page from your
book and a couple of others and ran the CO2 output from
the bubble counter to the air intake port on my UGF power
head, stuck a deflector on the output of the power head
so the flow is directed downward into the tank and sat
back. The water flow breaks the bubbles into very tiny
ones (like the difuser should have) and the current is
strong enough that most of the bubbles don't reach the
surface. Nothing to clean, and it seems to be working
just fine.

I'm sorry you thought I was being critical or suggesting
that you stop using the difuser.

Frank

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Post InfoPosted 26-Jun-2006 07:05Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Thanks Frank and Matty

Frank, no need to be sorry. As you can see, I have enough laughing smileys after the sentence where I was ranting about your response. It was a joke on my end (I think Matty got it ). And I knew Matty was just pulling my strings

Sorry to hear that your diffuser did not work as expected and has been expensive on top of it. Just like me, you nevertheless found a way that makes you happy, and that is what it is all about

And triple-thanks for moving my 20G log to this forum, it brings the family of my tanks closer together.

Now, the only one left outside this realm is my 29G log, but I am sure we can manage to get this one into the Planted Forum as well.

Thanks again,

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 26-Jun-2006 13:23Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
mattyboombatty
 
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EditedEdited by mattyboombatty
(I think Matty got it )


Got it - I just wanted to congratulate you on your method of cleaning after giving a sarcastic remark.



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Post InfoPosted 26-Jun-2006 16:58Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
Little Caesar
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sweet. thanks. yeah, she is really nice.

~*~ Caviar? no thanks! ~*~
Post InfoPosted 26-Jun-2006 21:14Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Glad I could help, Little Caesar

Tank wise, there is pretty much nothing to report, except maybe the fact that now, having stopped the Excel treatment for over 3 weeks, the BBA is certainly on its way back in, darn.

I know, I know, it has to do with my light, fishload, and whatnot, but I thought I just mention it.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 28-Jun-2006 16:50Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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LF,

Is the BBA limited to hardscape or is it growing on the plants as well?

My Scapes
Post InfoPosted 28-Jun-2006 23:18Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Tetratech,

The BBA is growing exclusively on the plants and mybe some parts of the wood. Mostly it occupies the egdes of my low growers, like some anubias, the java fern, and the isoetes.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 29-Jun-2006 15:28Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Weekly Tank Update - Week 40

The tank hasn't received much attention this week, partially because I was busy with work and partially because I am getting tired of the current setup. I am mostly spending my time with algae control and housing fast growers rather than having a scape that I could enjoy and shape.

Here is the tank after the last main trimming, 3 weeks ago:

Attached Image:

Tank 3 Weeks Ago



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Post InfoPosted 02-Jul-2006 13:38Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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I sure cannot complain about the speed with which my fast growers grow. But it seems like there is only one particular rythm to this tank - Fast growers up, trim, and so forth.

Here is the tank last weekend:

Attached Image:

Tank 1 Week Ago



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Post InfoPosted 02-Jul-2006 13:40Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Here is the tank now as it was yesterday before the trim. The Star Grass is all the way up and this actually creates a problem. The lower parts are soooo shaded that they have no light what so ever and rott/melt away. I am sure that this cannot be good for the water quality and may directly relate to algae problems.

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Before Trimming this Weekend



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LITTLE_FISH
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Then I trimmed away. I made one change though compared to earlier trimmings, I reduced the size of the Star Grass group and gave some of it to the Hygro group. This way I hope to reduce the amount of foul leaves over the growth period until the Star Grass is all tall again.

I may even remove the Star Grass all together or use it differently somewhere else in the tank.

Attached Image:

Tank Now



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Post InfoPosted 02-Jul-2006 13:46Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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On to some plant and fish detail shots.

Here is the Blyxa, or at least one of them. The plants haven't been floating up anymore, but they don't grow fast either. Instead, they are pretty much collecting quite a bit of gunk in them, which I can see when I hold the vacuum right over them. And, just like tetratech's they are all green now.

Attached Image:

Blyxa



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Post InfoPosted 02-Jul-2006 13:49Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
TW
 
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All still looks really nice in there though Ingo, but I guess I know what you mean, with my mainly wisteria tank being all about fast growers, trimming, but no great variety.

But for all that, I'd still be very proud to have a tank that looked like yours. You still have variety & little splashes or red & other colours here & there. Very nice.

Cheers
TW
Post InfoPosted 02-Jul-2006 13:50Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Here is a close-up of my Isoetes Lacustris. What appears to be nice air bubbles (from the water change) being produced by the plant are actually bubbles that are attached to the BBA that is yet again covering it. This simple plant is the worst infested one in the whole tank.

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Isoetes and BBA



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Post InfoPosted 02-Jul-2006 13:51Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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THANKS ROBYN

On to the fish, for Robyn, here is a close-up of the female (non-agressive) female. Half the time she is hiding somewhere in the thickets, but it is not because she is chased by the male. I simply think she likes it in there and that there are some nice snacks available.

Attached Image:

Female Apisto



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Post InfoPosted 02-Jul-2006 13:53Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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He, on the other hand, is mostly at home in the front of the tank, patrolling the substrate to see if any new goodies are avaiable, stalking them, and then go in for the kill.

Both are totally non agressive fish, neither to each other nor to anybody else in the tank.

Attached Image:

Male Apisto



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Post InfoPosted 02-Jul-2006 13:55Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Here is a nice shot (I think) of the male Pearl catching some air. The bubbles that you see around him are from the CO2 diffusion system that I have in place, a diffuser who's output is sucked into a small powerhead and redirected and even further cut up by it.

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Male Pearl



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Post InfoPosted 02-Jul-2006 13:57Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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The Rainbow group has found together for most of the time now, except for one of the 6 who prefers to be by himself for about half the day. I believe to identify him as a former leader who has lost his position to the leader of the last group that was added. He will get over it.

Attached Image:

Rainbows



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Post InfoPosted 02-Jul-2006 13:59Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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Welcome to the world of the High-Tech Tank

I think someone who is know as "The Grandmaster" "Uncle Ben" "Black and Tan Man" said it best --- IT'S A LIFESTYLE

Planted tanks take work and regular attention. You have a large tank fully planted from end to end, yes it will require time to keep it looking good and algae free. My tank is smaller and I've only added stems to the main area. Yes the wisteria is a stem, but it's the easiest plant to trim. I haven't uprooted them yet (although that might happen soon)



My Scapes
Post InfoPosted 02-Jul-2006 14:00Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Last but not least, the final shot for this week belongs to the Espei.

Some of you know why this fish gets the honor of the prime last spot in the picture series, and they sure deserve the special attention.

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Espei



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Post InfoPosted 02-Jul-2006 14:01Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
TW
 
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here is a close-up of the female (non-agressive) female
Ahh, now you're just rubbing it in

Cheers
TW
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LITTLE_FISH
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IT'S A LIFESTYLE
I don't mind the lifestyle of messing with the tank on a weekly base (well known fact that I cannot stop to mess with tanks, ), but I would rather enjoy messing with it to make it prettier rather than controlling algae (I know the issues at hand, just making a statement, we don't have to go through them again).
now you're just rubbing it in
Me , noooooo

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 02-Jul-2006 14:40Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Yes the wisteria is a stem, but it's the easiest plant to trim. I haven't uprooted them yet (although that might happen soon)
Good luck when you do that! They are a very well rooted plant when crawling. I think its a hygro thing. My giant is just as bad but it doesn't crawl.

LF,
Tank and fish shots are great as normal. I really like your Apistos but I might get my hands on something from africa that will blow your mind.

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[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
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Wingsdlc
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Well I guess I will let the cat out of the bag.
http://www.malawicichlidhomepage.com/other/cyprichromis_paracyprichromis.html
5th picture down... I am throwing this plan out though. They will not like my low Ph. Sweet fish though...

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Post InfoPosted 03-Jul-2006 02:41Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Wings,

Thanks for the compliments on the tank and such.

About the fish you may get:
Yes, it did blow my mind, but for a different reason. A Tanganyika fish in a planted tank? Wouldn't your parameters be way off from the requirements of that fish, like the high ph and O2 that it prefers? Have you looked at the food this fish needs? Overall, that sounds like trouble to me.

Ingo


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I am throwing this plan out though. They will not like my low Ph. Sweet fish though...


One of my coworkers was trying to get me to buy them. So I looked into it and realized that it wouldn't be a good idea for a number of reasons:

1. Ph is way too low
2. Too big of water changes
3. High CO2 count and probably too low of a O2 count
4. High Nitrate levels

Too bad....

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LITTLE_FISH
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Weekly Tank Updates - Week 41

There is again not too much to report on this tank for this week, all is the same. The fast growers are growing, and so is the algae

I only perfromed a little pruning this weekend, mostly to remove heavily BBA infested leaves, but not too many. All fish seem to be doing fine, at least almost all of the purchased ones are accounted for.

Deep in my head I am already planning a re-design of this tank, although I know that you folks would probably not support that idea (we know what messes my over-hauls created).

Just a few shot for the week, here is the tank last weekend (for comparison reasons):

Attached Image:

Last Week



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LITTLE_FISH
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And here it is last night. As you can see, the Hygro is growing quite a bit again, and so is the overhanging Ludwigia. The Star Grass is coming back too, I trimmed two stems of that were too tall in comparison to the rest of the group. When I "style" the 40G I will remove the Narrow Leaf Java Fern from this tank as it will serve as a main group in the other tank:

Attached Image:

This Weekend



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LITTLE_FISH
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The whole right half of the tank doesn't look anything

It is a grouping of plants that are desired in the tank but with which I currently don't know what to do. This image is a sample of what I mean, all kinds of plants in random spots, no system, no visual appeal, they are just there. It has to change!

Attached Image:

Boring



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I will post a series of Oto shots in the 40G log, but I was able to capture one the Otos in this tank as well. Rarely do I see them all, the last time was probably a few weeks back. I was lucky enough to count 5 of the 6 today.

When Otos eat of the glass it always seems as if they are singing a song (from an opera) to the bystanders.

Attached Image:

Oto



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Here is a 3 shot journey into the Ludwigia shadowed gardens on the left side of the tank. This area is a favorite hang-out for all fish of the tank, just look at the last full shot and you will see about 90% of all fish in that area.

Attached Image:

Left Side I



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This stage of the Ludwigia growth is the nicest, but soon it will become too long and start to shade the Star Grass to its right. I love it when the roots hand down over the Anubias field and the fish take shelter in between.

Also, note at least 3 Anubia flowers

Attached Image:

Left Side II



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LITTLE_FISH
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Last picture for now, an even closer look into the "cave". Center stage takes the female Apisto, also visible in the last two shots (and so was the male).

All the pearling is post water change related, and occurs mostly on the hair algae

Thanks for checking in,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Left Side III



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TW
 
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EditedEdited by TankWatcher
As always, love looking at your pics.

Cheers
TW
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LF,
You really have a Jungle again. Just take it easy when you start to redo things.

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Thanks for the input

Wings - it is not really a jungle yet, compared to the jungle it once was when I still had Rock Valley. The plants on the right half are actually far enough apart from each other so that light can reach all the way down to the substrate.
Just take it easy when you start to redo things
- Well, I will see what I can do, but I cannot promise anything. In any way, nothing will happen really soon.

Thanks to the two of you again,

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 09-Jul-2006 15:18Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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LF,
Give yourself a break.

I mean your doing a great job scaping the other tanks, why not use this as a grow out tank and you could put all your new plants in it.

Eventually something will come to you and you'll probably scape this the way you want it. Maybe you have "Scaper's Block" It's going around I hear.

My Scapes
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Give yourself a break.
Hey, remember - IT'S A LIFESTYLE



Yeah, I will use this tank as a growout tank, that's why I purchased this 125G . Plus, using this tank as a temp storage for plants seems like a bad idea, as I would easily spread hair algae all over my tanks.

See tetratech, I don't think I have a "Scaper's Block" right now, probably the opposite is true. Having created 2 rather nice looking tanks in the last 2 weeks (20 and 29), I feel inspired. Unfortunaltely, I have messed this one up so badly than all but an over-haul would be unsuccessful. But as I said, I am not in a rush, I just try to come to terms with myself if an over-haul is a desired goal.

Thanks tetratech for the well-meaning suggestions, keep them coming ,

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 09-Jul-2006 15:55Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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Geez just a suggestion .
I don't mean a forever growout tank, just for a while.
Sometimes taking a break from something you see "The forest from the trees" again.

Yes your "little" tanks look quite nice. Maybe we should call you Little_Scaper

My Scapes
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I hear you on the "forest for the trees thing. I believe I have noticed that I got too carried away with details and in that process didn't see that the tank as a whole made less and less sense (style wise, not in general).

Right now, I guess the tank is a growout tank, as this is all what the plants in there do, grow - and then come out - because of algae cover

BTW, does anyone know what the stars in my status mean?
**** Ultimate Fish Guru * - I for sure am clueless as to where they came from.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 09-Jul-2006 22:37Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
NowherMan6
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Personally, LF, I think this is the nicest your tank has looked. It's no longer stem plant central, there's some long-term viability there. Such a long tank is difficult to scape, and invariably you wind up with a few different tanks within it, it's hard to be cohesive. I've even seen it in some of Amano's work. I like it as it is, lush, colorful and clear. very well done, and great pics as always

Maybe we should call you Little_Scaper


I like it!


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Post InfoPosted 09-Jul-2006 22:37Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Oh NowherMan6,

That are very kind words you write there, I appreciate it .

Actually though, the tank is still Stem-Plant-Central, with I would assume about 80% covered with Wisteria, Star Grass, Hyrgo, Ludwigia, and Pearl Grass - all stems.

Little_Scaper - hm, not too bad, although I am LITTLE_FISH for my preference of small fish. So how would that translate into Little_Scaper? Small Plants? Or only a little part of the tank is actually scaped

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 10-Jul-2006 00:02Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
mattyboombatty
 
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I think they feel bad for you not having any quiz stars, so they give you some for having a billion posts.

I kinda like the haphazard scaping over on the right side. It's kind of more natural in some regards.



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Post InfoPosted 10-Jul-2006 00:49Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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EditedEdited by TankWatcher
You really have a Jungle again.
Noooo, I always think it looks nice. If I were a little fish, I'd like to live in such a tank. I think there is a place in this world for highly scaped tanks & as well as other tanks, that have been scaped such as this one, but trick us into thinking it is just a natural bunch of plants. You have several tanks, so you can create several looks - this is just be a different look.

A very nice look, I think.

I don't know why you're unhappy with it (except if algae is a problem, but you can't see that in the pics).

Cheers
TW
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I think they feel bad for you not having any quiz stars


What do you mean? I am sure you didn't even notice that you have yellow CO2 tubing, as you are obviously blind

Go count them

haphazard scaping over on the right side ... but trick us into thinking it is just a natural bunch of plants
That all would be good, if it had been created at least somewhat intentional. I stated from the beginning that this tank should not be a highlight in scape but also fish intensive, but I didn't mean no style either . But thanks for letting me know that the scape is not all that bad .

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 10-Jul-2006 02:17Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
mattyboombatty
 
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EditedEdited by mattyboombatty
What do you mean? I am sure you didn't even notice that you have yellow CO2 tubing, as you are obviously blind


Oh man....that WAS bad. My observational skills are obviously lacking. I seriously looked over there when you commented on your title, and didn't see the stars.... . I even remember when you got all 10 stars. Hey, at least I got the number of posts right...

Sorry 'bout that LF....I think your stars were in stealth mode at the time

EDIT: multiple typos...



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Post InfoPosted 10-Jul-2006 03:53Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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You must have had your mind focussed on the new tank setup, I understand that completely.

No problem Matty, we are all friends here
But don't do it again or I will send some of my BBA your way .

Have fun,

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 10-Jul-2006 11:06Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
mattyboombatty
 
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Please no...not the dread BBA



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Post InfoPosted 10-Jul-2006 15:24Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
illustrae
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I really like the occasional sprig of red teleranthera amidst the grassy crypts (if that's what they are). I think the tank looks lovely.

Hoping that there must be a word for everything I mean...
Post InfoPosted 10-Jul-2006 19:56Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
FRANK
 
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EditedEdited by FRANK
Hi,
As far as the stars are concerned, they are out of
"balance."
Someone (not I) typed ***Ultimate Fish Guru***
and there are not enough spaces in that field so it is
lopsided. Drop a note to Adam or Lindy or Babel and see
if one of them can stop your listing to one side.

Frank

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Post InfoPosted 11-Jul-2006 01:48Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Thanks illustrae for the input, I appreciate it. I like the color of the Alternanthera as well, but its placement is wherever I had space left in the tank. I guess sometimes "Chance" is a better designer than I am

Thanks Frank for trying to explain the **** Ultimate Fish Guru *, but I am seeing the same in the page's source, and in my Profile when viewed directly as I see it and as anybody else can see it. I think this must have some secret meaning that I cannot identify.

Thanks to both,

Ingo




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Post InfoPosted 11-Jul-2006 02:59Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
bensaf
 
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EditedEdited by bensaf
The current scape is very flat and has little to no depth. The ingredients are all there but you mis read the recipe somewhere along the line.

Some general pointers.

Don’t be afraid of empty space or gaps. The voids have their own dynamism. An example of this would be the H.Augustifolia and the Stargrass. Both nice plants but they are almost identical color and at present are just blending into one another, effectively canceling each other out in term of visual impact. Just have a big enough empty space between the two would go a long away to solve this. Or by using a plant of a different color in between will achieve the same effect. The ludwigia for example would be ok between these 2.

Build a skeleton that you can then flesh out. But the bones and structure should still be visible. The wood and rocks are hidden at the moment so the structure is gone. Bring the rocks forward and use them as a pedestal that the wood can sit on. Be careful what is planted in front and around this structure so as it doesn’t become overgrown and obscured again. Anubias in the gaps between rocks and wood. Ferns to decorate the wood. Only use plants that will stay at a size that will remain manageable in front of the structure. Blyxa is ideal. It’s just used in dabs to highlight the rocks and the plant looks better with the dark backdrop of wood or rock.

Some plants are only effective when solitary. Grassy plants like the Sag, Cyperus, Isoetes are nice but if they are used against a background of green stems they simply disappear. Use them in areas where there is nothing else green around. Use as highlight to rock or wood, or simply have them against a black background. Use as fillers at the side or popping out behind dark crypts or peeping from behind rocks etc. The important thing is that they are visible for what they are – at the moment they are invisible.

Some plants look better when they are half hidden. A lot of plants look there best when they are poking out from behind something. Not all are stars. They don’t have to be out there on show. Their main function should simply be to show off other plants or create a backdrop for hardscape. Wisteria is a good example it can be mould around the lines of other plants or hardscape to show them off more effectively. A lot of Crypts especially bigger Wentdiis look good just poking out of somewhere.

A big showpiece plant works well in a tank your size and work around that like you would hardscape.

Grouping of stem plants is important. Different shapes, textures and colors, don’t place them randomly, think what would look good next to what so as they can highlight one another and thereby increase the individual appeal. Don’t be afraid to put one species of stem plant right in front of another, as long as they differ in color or texture and you keep the height of the front one low enough, they complement one another rather then obscure, of such things depth are made.

You’ve got all the necessary bits and pieces in places, they just need to be used to maximum effect.



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Post InfoPosted 11-Jul-2006 09:09Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Bensaf,

Thanks for the detailed list of suggestions. I am aware of almost all the things you said, but I am worried about a re-do at this point (more algae? ).

There is no way to make this tank look nice (not just nicer, but nice) without ripping it apart first. You cannot simply take parts of it and plant them more structured, there is a natural chain reaction that has to be considered (what you remove from one spot and plant in another will conclude in other plants having to be moved as well, not to mention the hardscape).

I am really not too frustrated with the tank, but given that all other tanks currently are looking better and better, this one is the black sheep in the tank family

Thanks again, I will keep your suggestions in mind during the next redo. I also will have to fit a mother Barteri somewhere in there, as I ordered the plants for the 40G (see log entry) and couldn't resist on this one

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 11-Jul-2006 14:55Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Ok,

Finally I made it home, and when checking on my tanks I saw that this one has a new flower (actuall 2). The Star Grass is doing me the honor this time. As it is not natural for this plant to have submersed flowers (at least from what I know), I have to assume that the buds started to form when the top was all the way up at the surface before the last trimming, a week and a half ago. I assume it kept on growing after the trim.

Sorry about the bad quality, but here it is:

Attached Image:

Star Grass Flowers



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LITTLE_FISH
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Well, and while I was having the camera out allready anyway, I decided to take a few more shots.

And here is yet another new Anubias flower, tell me if you have seen enough of them by now and I will stop posting them (or not ).

Attached Image:

Anubias Flower



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Post InfoPosted 12-Jul-2006 01:11Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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And I thought that while I am bothering you with the 397th image of an Anubias Flower, why not add the 467th image of an Oto, just to complete the list

Here he is, munching away on some algae covered piece of wood. No food shortage there:

Attached Image:

Oto Eating



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Post InfoPosted 12-Jul-2006 01:13Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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And to round it out, another 3 shots of the Apistos, this time both in all shots.

Tonight they had a few close encounters, here is the first one of many:

Attached Image:

Apisto Pair I



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LITTLE_FISH
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Here is a near head-on collision between the two. I know that it is not meant as a thread by either or as the male has the black eye bar "hidden", unlike when he shows off towards other fish or me:

Attached Image:

Apisto Pair II



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Last but not least, another close encounter. I think that they truely begin to like each other, otherwise this would be too close for comfort.

I wonder what the male is saying to the female in this picture

Attached Image:

Apisto Pair III



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Post InfoPosted 12-Jul-2006 01:18Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Wingsdlc
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LF,
Very nice pictures as always. I really like the one of the Oto. It shows both your great photo skills and your super skills at growing algae. (please no threats of sending some my way as I have green spot that is driving me nuts!)

Sorry about opening up a large can of worms with the comment about your jungle. You seem to have a lot on your plate with work and 4 planted tanks. They are not like the "normal" tanks people have in terms of matinance. Thou with opening up that can I got some good ideas for my tank from Ben. I guess it was not all for the worse.

55G Planted tank thread
19G Container Pond
[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
Post InfoPosted 12-Jul-2006 03:00Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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Wow, LF congrats on the Stargrass flower. Will the flower open submersed. I believe they are a light shade of blue.


My Scapes
Post InfoPosted 12-Jul-2006 03:06Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
bensaf
 
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Don't what you are putting in your water to get so many plants to flower.

3 years, a ton of Anubias and not one flower


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Post InfoPosted 12-Jul-2006 03:38Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Wingsdlc
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Ben you have never had an Anubias flower? I have only had one but I am sure it will again sometime. Unless I happened to cut that chunk off the other day.



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Post InfoPosted 12-Jul-2006 14:20Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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LF, I'll trade you some pearls for some flowers. We are such men.

My Scapes
Post InfoPosted 12-Jul-2006 14:28Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
mattyboombatty
 
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That's a really nice set of pics. Especially those apistos, they are a great looking pair - they really look settled in and happy now. The flowers on the stargrass is really interesting, I've never had a stem plant flower. A couple of anubias, but never stems.



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Post InfoPosted 12-Jul-2006 16:09Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
NowherMan6
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I've had many anubias as well, not one flower. As a matter of fact, sometimes I'd get them with flowers and as soon as I'd put them in the tank, the flower looked at me, looked around the tank, then promptly died. Stupid stuck up flowers, think they're so great...

That female pisto is just gorgeous. At least you know your WQ is top notch, I've never seen a female apisto color up so much. Are you sure you're not using Photoshop? or maybe it's just those punchy Canon colors


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Post InfoPosted 12-Jul-2006 16:34Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Wingsdlc
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So while we are talking about flowers. Being men and call....

I have an Aponogeton crispus flower in my tank right now (yes I know they are not hard to flower). I really like their flowers. I think the wife will too! Might have to add a few more of these guys in the tank...

55G Planted tank thread
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[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
Post InfoPosted 12-Jul-2006 19:44Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Wings,

I could dig out my old photos of the Apon flowers

Thanks all for the, at least indirect, compliments on my flowers, at least one thing I superseed Bensaf .

Tetratech - me and modifying pictures in Photoshop?



I prefer to show the real thing, for better or worse (just look at my lovely algae shots over the last 43 weeks).

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 12-Jul-2006 23:50Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Weekly Tank Update - Week 42

Not much at all has happened during this week to the tank, besides feeding and fertilizing. I was a little pre-occupied with the 40G, putting all these plants in that tank and what not.

Plant and algae growth in this tank seem normal, fish seem to be swimming around normal as well, so all is status quo. I will soon have to unload some Espei, either by selling them or by putting about 20 in the 40G.

Here are a few (only 4 this weekend) shots of the tank over the last 2 weeks.

This one shows the tank 2 weeks ago after the last major trimming:

Attached Image:

2 Weeks ago



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Post InfoPosted 16-Jul-2006 13:49Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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A week later, so last weekend, the Ludwigia on the left had reached its prime, spanning a bridge over the Anubias group all the way to the Star Grass. That, in turn, had grown a little, as well as the Hygro on the right.

Attached Image:

Last Week



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Post InfoPosted 16-Jul-2006 13:51Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Here is a shot from this weekend before some trimming took place. The Ludwigia became too big and started to shade the Star Grass and other plants.

Ignore the huge amount of floating Hygro on the right. These were the stems that I removed from the 40G during the mid-week replant. I was somehow envisioning that I can add them into this tank, but without a major change this could not be accomplished. In the end, I disposed of them.

Attached Image:

Before Trim, This Weekend



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Post InfoPosted 16-Jul-2006 13:55Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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And lastly, here is the tank after the trim, the way it looks now.

Mostly, you will notice that the Ludwigia bush is gone, albeit small stems are replanted in that area and will eventually come back into view.

The Hygro has reached a height that means for me that it will require trimming soon, most likely next weekend.

I also trimmed the Pearl Grass group on the right, as well as the few stems of Alternanthera in it, and I replanted one of the Green Wendtiis that was getting almost no light anymore and died down to 2 leaves from a group that once was maybe around 20 leaves.

That is it for now,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Tank Now



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Post InfoPosted 16-Jul-2006 13:59Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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LF,
You have a very large long tank, certainly not the easiest to bring together. Although you added the wood I think you need more hardscape to show depth and defintion. Why not add some pretty big size rocks jutting out in the left-mid and right mid areas. This will give the plants more definition and separation from each other and at the same time you could probably remove some of the plants to reduce maintenance somewhat.

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Post InfoPosted 16-Jul-2006 14:26Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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I hear you tetratech,

My vision (albeit we know how well that one translates into a real tank ) for this tank is by now so far off from the actual layout that it would be an almost complete overhaul.

To give you an idea:

I see the right back side planted tall, maybe with a larger dense group of Hygro Angustifolia. Around it is an assembly of Anubias, slowly declining in height. The driftwood branches are sticking out of this combination. This section, with maybe one more plant as an accent, is about a third of the tank. The rest of the tank would be planted much lower, with maybe rocks as mountains, but not too high.

Somewhere along that line is how I would like the tank to be.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 16-Jul-2006 14:42Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Ok,

The first step towards a more plant friendly environment has been taken as I was at the LFS and arranged the selling of about 35 Espei for this coming week. That should make the water column a little leaner, when it comes to waste.

Now all I have to do is find a day when I will find the time and patience to catch these speedsters, last time it took me about 1.5 hours to catch 28 of them.

I may use the small store credit to purchase a pair of Triple-Red Apisto cacatuoides for the 40G. Any thoughts on that?

Ingo


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NowherMan6
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LF,

Re: the Espei, why not buy one of those big wide nets used for catching larger fish? Just hold it in one spot and corral the little guys into it.

As for the apistos, very nice idea. For my next big tank I'm going to set up an apisto haven of sorts, so I've been doing a ton of research on them. Cacs are harem breeders, not naturally pair breeders like rams and certain other apistos like borelli. I'm sure they work just fine as pairs because that's how they're sold sometimes, but it may be neat to purchase say, 3-4 females and one male. You'll get to see more natural apisto behavior out of them, with the females defending their territory and their fry, and the male bouncing around and strutting his stuff. Anyway, that's what I'm going to do. See that? I'm spilling the beans on my big tank designs, giving away my ideas, all to help a friend out!

p.s. Finally saw your article, great job!


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Post InfoPosted 17-Jul-2006 20:14Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Thanks NowherMan6,

For the info on the Apistos and the comment on the Article.

Yeah, these particular ones are sold as a pair, finding additional females would be harder.

Having a big net was a consideration, but I got a little worried that I may rip out half my plants in the process. I may refer to it anyway, in particular if it takes me .5 hours to catch even one of these little buggers.

Thanks again,

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 17-Jul-2006 21:43Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
TW
 
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EditedEdited by TankWatcher
I may use the small store credit to purchase a pair of Triple-Red Apisto cacatuoides for the 40G. Any thoughts on that?
Well, you know I have a pair & they are my "married couple". They show no aggression to anyone else or each other, although when they had eggs, they worked as a team guarding them. I think they are pretty too, even my girl is pretty. I recommend them as nice, easy apistos - particularly when you compare them to my other apistos, who continue to give me low level worry.

I say a pair should work well.

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Thanks Robyn,

That is what my research into these specific Apistos showed as well, they are the perfect entry Apisto, easy to breed, easy tank mates, but maybe a little on the shy side (that will have to be seen).

I don't even know if they are available right now, but I am not in a rush anyway. I still have to find the time to get the Espei out first, between work, a dinner date with my daughter, another one with my wife, and all the other things in life, this will be a challenge for this week.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 18-Jul-2006 10:01Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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EditedEdited by TankWatcher
maybe a little on the shy side
Don't know if mine are typical or not, but they're not shy. They come to the front of the tank whenever I approach, as they know I mean food. As I like looking at them A LOT, they are sometimes disappointed, as it's not always dinner time when I'm there peeking in - but, they always come

Cheers
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Well,

I am having a problem

Last night we had a major storm coming through and the power went out. This morning, when the sun came out, I could see the extent of the damage. The whole part of the town I live in has loads of trees fallen over or broken off, 50% of the roads are blocked, in short - it looks like a war zone.

I am not expecting the power to come back on soon, our own power line has at least 5 trees on it, and that is only for the area of maybe 15 houses, I couldn't further investigate as I had to go to work (that's where I am right now).

So, to sum it up, I got no filtration on my tanks, no pumps, no nothing. I guess the tank get a black-out of a not-so-gentle kind

Ingo


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Sorry to hear the LF? I really hope your power comes on soon, but if it doesn't what is your plan?

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Thanks tetratech,

I have no plan. I have a single battery powered air pump at home that I could fire up and rotate through the tanks. This cannot start until I come home from work, whenever that is.

In any case, very frustrating

Ingo


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EditedEdited by TankWatcher
Ooh no, sorry Ingo. I know how worried you must be about that. I remember earlier this year, we had a blackout, which luckily only lasted a couple of hours. It was caused by a simple fault that the electricity people could attend to quickly, but that does not sound at all like your situation. Even though it was not for long, I was very worried at the time. I hope your power is not too delayed. I'm glad too, that it seems no tree actually fell on your house, car or family, so that would have been even worse. I guess it's quite likely that if many trees are down, that may have happened to some families.

Good luck with it all. Fingers & toes are all crossed that your electricity people get it fixed quickly for you.

Cheers
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Thanks Robyn,

The wife just called and the latest prediction is that, if we would be really lucky, we would have power again late tonight, so pretty much 24 hour after it went out. More likely though is that it may come back on sometime tomorrow, going then towards 48 hours. Darn

Yes, luckily nobody on our street seems to have gotten hurt directly, almost like a miracle most trees fell between houses and onto streets and yards. I am sure that some houses have been damaged to some degree, but none has been demolished.

I will try to get home early to hook up the air pump, but as you may know I am really busy at work as well.

Ingo


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EditedEdited by tetratech
Yes, luckily nobody on our street seems to have gotten hurt directly, almost like a miracle most trees fell between houses and onto streets and yards. I am sure that some houses have been damaged to some degree, but none has been demolished.

Glad to hear it. We caught some of the storm, but nothing major. Had some of my deck furniture tossed around and lot's of leaves in the pool. Is it me or does there some to be much more devasting storms lately. There's was just a tsunami in Jakata (Bensaf's Home) and over 500 people died.




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Post InfoPosted 19-Jul-2006 15:33Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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I think the weather is crazy lately, what with your storms, the tsunami(s), our news telling us today that at least some parts of US are going through a major heat wave, Sydney went through a major heat wave earlier this year & about 84% of the state I live in (NSW) is in a drought situation. Our dam capacity is well down & we have had water restrictions for a couple of years (I feel guitly about my 50% water change, when I think about our farmers).

I hope you are really lucky & get power tonight, otherwise, is it cold showers at the LF residence tonight - or do you have gas hot water & cooking?

Cheers
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tetratech
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LF,
What ever happened with your Stargrass flowers?

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LOL,

Well - this question for sure caught me by surprise

I am wondering if my fish are dying right now and you ask about the flower.

Anyway - It withered away one day later, the flower stem hanging off the side. I assume I only had a flower stem in the first place because the whole plant top was on the surface and that was when it formed. After I trimmed and replanted, the whole thing was submersed and the flower for sure did not like that.

Ingo

STILL NO POWER


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tetratech
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I am wondering if my fish are dying right now and you ask about the flower.
Sorry for what appears as my insensitivy, but when you said you might have power tonite, it turned from major to minor problem (in my mind anyway). I know how frustating it is, cause I've lost power for only a few hours and was really annoyed. If it goes any longer I would do at least a 20% WC on all your tanks.



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Post InfoPosted 19-Jul-2006 20:30Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Eek! I hope everybody makes it Ingo. I'm sure the tanks will bounce back quick after the power comes back on. At least you don't have a reef tank. If power went out at my place I'd be blowing bubbles with a straw in my reef tank if I had to.



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Post InfoPosted 19-Jul-2006 20:46Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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There's was just a tsunami in Jakata (Bensaf's Home) and over 500 people died.


Funny you should mention that, I was just about to make a post about it.

It's been a bit weird, two quakes in the space of a week. I'd pretty much gotten used to them. Strange but you can sense them just before they hit, sudden nausea in the pit of the stomach and dizziness then you realize the room is shaking

But last nights was the biggest I felt yet, also the closest to hit, lots of screaming in the apartment building, including my wife - she near bowled me over in her rush to wrap herself around my neck !

Funnily the first sign that the quake is going on is the tank water sloshing and spilling over the edge (creepily the fish all stop swimming ). Lost one neon in the desk tank, thought being in a small glass box under a big lump of driftwood was not the safest place to be, and like my wife decided to run for it, he jumped and ended up on the carpet. It was a choice of calming the wife or saving the fish The wife won......just

A least I know the hardscape is solid, not a single branch shifted place ! All's well that end's well

Anyway LF, I think things will be fine. This is where having a planted tank comes into it's own. You have a natural filter in place and an oxidisor. Shouldn't be a major problem.


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Post InfoPosted 20-Jul-2006 04:20Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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LF, what's the lighting situation. Hopefully your back in business by now.

Anyway LF, I think things will be fine. This is where having a planted tank comes into it's own. You have a natural filter in place and an oxidisor. Shouldn't be a major problem.

That is true. I accidently turned my filter off on two seperate occasions and all was fine the next day. Even if you go a few days I think you'll be fine LF. Especially in a large heavily planted tank what is the canister really doing besides flow. It's picking up some solid waste, etc, but if you don't have any huge fish you probably wouldn't even notice the difference if the cansister was replaced with a powerhead.

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Post InfoPosted 20-Jul-2006 04:43Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
mattyboombatty
 
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but if you don't have any huge fish you probably wouldn't even notice the difference if the cansister was replaced with a powerhead.


This comes from the guy who says that LF might not have enough biofiltration to handle the amount of waste from the espei, making his algae problems. Besides, I'm not too sure what the plants are going to be doing while the lights are out(no photosynthesis = no oxygen). At least they are probably covered in beneficial bacteria. That will help. I still think everything will be fine, but not because of the plants in particular.



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Well,

Thursday morning, and no power in sight

Our whole side of the street looks just like it did 2 days ago, with all trees and branches all over the power lines etc.

In my backyard, behind the garage, a tree from the neighbors behind us, I would guess with a diameter of about 2 to 3 feet, is lying across the main power line, and so are many others all over the place in my town.

The current prediction is that, if we get lucky, the power will be on by 4PM today, but given that nothing has changed in 2 days I doubt that.

Anyway - I went home early yesterday and we rushed to Home Depot (a hardware chain) and I bought a generator. It took me over an hour to set up that sucker, but eventually I had it running (on gasoline) and managed to hook up all filters in my 4 tanks. I let it run for 4 hours before I had to turn it off, the wife started to complain about the funes (hey - what are some funes compared to my fishes lifes ). She prominsed me that she will turn it back on today at 9AM, but I have my doubts that she actually will do that (let's just say that the argument about funes or fish lifes didn't end on a nice note, but I gave in anyways).

That's where we are now,

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 20-Jul-2006 13:26Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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So have you already gone 48hrs with no power - that's too bad. I'm sure your wife will turn generator on, if she promised too. Maybe she just wants the kids out of the house & at school, before the fumes start up - or do you still have little ones at home?

How do your fish seem. Are they still acting normal. Is it warm enough there at the moment that your heaters aren't really needed? I know in my summer, I didn't really need heaters at all. They never turned on, as the room was always warm enough.

Anyway, continuing to cross all fingers & toes.


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Were you running the generators indoors? I would be afraid that Carbon Monoxide would build up in the basement. Set it up out side or in a vented area and run an extension cord.

No sense killing your self to save the fish.

My family has a generator for hurricanes they run it on the back porch with extension cords coming in the back door.

Good luck with the power situation. We're crossing our fingers for you!

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Post InfoPosted 20-Jul-2006 13:51Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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I am with rick on the generator thing. They are ment for outdoors.

A while back when I was in my first year of high school we lost power for at least a week. Living in the sticks this ment that we did not have any water either because we had a well. If it wouldn't have been for the gas grill we would have starved. I swear my mom can make anything on that thing! As for the fish I was keeping at the time. I think they were fine. I kept them in the basement so they stayed dark thus keeping them dorment.

Best wishes LF. I know that its not fun to have no power.

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EditedEdited by TankWatcher
Sounds like if you can run it from outside, you, the fish & your wife will be happy - the fumes will be outside, bothering no-one. But, I can't help thinking that if you could have done that, you already would have, and that maybe, for some reason in your situation, it's not possible?

Cheers
TW
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Hi,
If you haven't already, get a 100 ft extension cord, and
one power strip (like for computers, etc.) place the
generator outside and run the cord through a window.
Use old towels in a layer across the sill and close the
window down onto the cord. The towels will mold around the
cord and "seal" the window keeping out the bugs etc.
Hook up the filters and lights to the strip(s) and crank
the generator up. You just have to keep an eye on the
fuel once in a while.

Frank


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Post InfoPosted 20-Jul-2006 14:36Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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LF,
Glad you got your hands on a generator. I would keep doing daily water refreshing anyway to keep things fresh and oxygenated.

This comes from the guy who says that LF might not have enough biofiltration to handle the amount of waste from the espei, making his algae problems

O.K. how do I talk my way out of this one

What I meant was in a big tank isn't the primary "biological" and yes overall filteration the plants and substrate not the canister. Isn't that the case in salt too "live rock and live sand", but if there are big fish present you need mechanical to get that out of the water as well as the big food you feed those fish that goes uneaten. I do think if LF had a bigger filter, when I say bigger I mean bigger in terms of more water volume it would help, but the one canister I don't think is doing all that much in terms of biological when compared to what's inside the tank.

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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH


Of course it runs outdoors, you sillies

It just happen that you have to keep the door a notch open so the power cord can run into the house. Also, I have to have the generator in a position that is not favorable with regards to the winds, and although I point the exhaust outlet away from the house the wind occasionally blows it back towards it.

Kids are in day camp, so they will be far away from the fumes during the day. The temperature here was about 98F before the storm hit 2 days ago, the next day it was in the upper 80s. Last night, around 8PM, the temp inside the house was 84F (that is exactly 30C). The basement is a little cooler, but overall I for sure do not need the heaters in the tank. I unplugged all electrical equipment to the tanks, partially because I needed the extension cords to hook up to the main power cord from the generator, and partially to avoid anything starting up uncontrolled if the power should come back on while I am not at home.

Ingo

EDIT: Frank and tetratech - didn't see your entries until now. Yeah - I will have to work on moving the generator further away from the house, but there are 2 problems:
a) While the wife doesn't like the fumes, she also wouldn't like the idea of blowing them into the neighbor's window
b) a long extension cord uses up quite a bit of amps itself, energy that gets lost for the filters.


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EditedEdited by TankWatcher
Of course it runs outdoors, you sillies
Well, in my defence, I did say that I couldn't help thinking that if you could have done that, you would have already.

Anyway, sounds like you're doing all you can do. I didn't think you'd need to worry about heaters. Our news yesterday talked about parts of the US being in a heat wave - although I don't know if that is the part where you are. But I do remember you commenting on matty (I think it was him) wearing thick tennis socks when it was so hot.

Cheers
TW
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OK,

So, first of all, I am sorry that I did not participate in my fellow hobbyists threads too much during the last few days, with the power outage and a tremendous work schedule I just did not find the time to do anything besides letting you know about my own events in this thread.

Power News: WE ARE BACK IN BUSINESS

My wife managed to get the generator started sometime during the day yesterday, this gave my fish another 3 to 4 hours of filter activity. Once she turned it off, it took another 4 hours and then the real power came back on.

By the time I got home (after another 12 hour work session from hell) I just had enough time to plug everything back in and to adjust all the timers. I managed to feed all fish, for the 3 smaller tanks while their lights were out already (past bedtime for these tanks) and for this one with about half an hour of lights on. I could account for most of the fishies, as much as this is possible given that I don't even know how many Espei should be there. I did not see one of the Rainbows and the female Apisto, I will check more intense tonight when I get home. The other tanks were harder to check for fish (lights out), but it seems all are there.

In this tank, the Star Grass seems to have suffered the most, while certain plants seem to have thrived. It appears to me as if a few of my crypts (not the Wendtiis) have grown quite a bit, and the Alternanthera as well.

Maybe tonight I find more time to check on the damage that may have been done to flora and fauna, I theoretically also should drop off 35 Espei at the LFS, but I don't know if I will find the time.

That is it for now, off to another crazy day at work,

Ingo


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LF,
Glad you are back with power. Must be a nice feeling! As for your fish I hope they are all ok and that you don't have a plant mess to clean up. In general I think fish and plants are tougher than we think they are. Best wishes!

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EditedEdited by TankWatcher
Oh, that's good you have power. Don't worry too much about the apistos & rainbows yet. With all your plants to hide in & if lights were only on for 1/2 hour, then that wasn't much time to spot them all. My apistos (the ones that worry me - you know the ones I mean) I sometimes don't see the female for a couple of days at a time, but so far, she always turns up.

Good luck with everything.



Cheers
TW
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LF,
Hope all is well with the tanks.

In this tank, the Star Grass seems to have suffered the most, while certain plants seem to have thrived

I really have a love hate relationship with Star Grass. When it's good it's really good and tough to beat for constrast and it's probably one of the best plants if your want that cascading effect from back to mid, but it turns very quickly to a unattractive mess when conditions aren't to it's liking.

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Thank you all,

I am still trying to catch up with all the threads that I have not replied to, because of the power outage and the work load in the office. I hope the coming week will give me some time to do so, but for now I will just update my 4 logs and then I will be off again.

Weekly Tank Update - Week 43

This sure was an eventful week, having had the power outage and what not. I am too busy to write a lot, but here is one reason why the tanks did survive the 48 hours without a problem. The Generator was hummming for about 4 hours each day, enough to provide some agitation and oxygen enrichment in all 4 tanks:

Attached Image:

Generator



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Here is how the tank looked like on Saturday morning.

All seems to be fine, but a closer look at the tank reveals that the Star Grass has suffered. To my surprise, the Hygro angustifolia has suffered as well, and quite a few leaves fell off. The alternanthera and a few smaller crypts on the other hand seemed to have grown better than usual. All fish have been accounted for:

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Before Water Change



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Here is a closer look at the Star Grass. I don't know how visible it is, but all lower parts of the plants have withered away or at least suffered enough to better remove them. I think I got lucky when I reduced the size of this group, otherwise I would have a much bigger mess right now.

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Star Grass



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Here is the tank now after the water change, which included a cleaning of the filter. BTW, I did nothing to the filters during the blackout, if there were any "bad" bacteria in them then they do not seem to cause any problems in the tank now.

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Tank Now



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As you can see in the full shot, the Star Grass is not even visible anymore, that is how short the trimmings had to be made in order to only keep healthy stems. Here is a closer look at the middle of the tank, slightly angled. You can see the tips of the Star Grass and some Alternanthera that I trimmed from other parts of the tank and planted between the Anubias on the left and the Star Grass.

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Peek-A-Boo



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Here is another close-up, just for the fun of it. I like the color contrast that the Alternanthera creates in a green tank, albeit its particular positioning in this spot may not be the best.

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Just Some Color



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Last but not least, here is a shot of the top of the 40G. That tank created quite a Duck Weed carpet and I removed some of it and added it to this tank.

Some of you may remember that I once had Duck Weed and that it dissapeared on me. Well, my theory that the fish ate it seems to hold merit, they liked the new Duck Weed as well. I wonder when they will have it all munched up

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Duck Weed



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Glad all the fishies made it LF. That's good news. Your whole tank seems to have pulled though pretty well & still looks all very lush & what not.

48hrs without light & you can still taunt me with a very healthy looking splash of red.

Anyway, seems that generator was worth the purchase.

Cheers
TW
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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
Thanks Robyn,

Yup - all fish that I can count have been accounted for. This excludes the Otos (too good of a hider, haven't seen all 6 in a few weeks now) and the Espei, as I don't know how many I have. Oh, I don't remember if I mentioned it already, but I have not had a chance to give some to the LFS yet, with the power outage and the work load. I will try to work it out this week.

Ingo

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LF,

Is 100 pages a record? I bet its got to be close. All I have to say is "You the Man!"

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Yep, I was just talking about Stargrass, very unforgiving plant. I like that Duckweed shot.

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Congrats on a 100 pages. Here's to a hundred more!

I just hope it doesn't break the board or anything

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Here's to a hundred more!


Holy cow, can you imagine?

I re-read Ingo's TFH article the other day and there was one part where they mentioned the beautiful planted tank where his espei bred, and I couldn't help but think to myself... "Hmm, yes beautiful... so beautiful, in fact, that he tore it all up and did it again... then tore that one up and did it again..." So indeed, here's to another 100 pages! /:'


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Is 100 pages a record?


I think we passed the record....say 40-50 pages back.



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Thanks guys for the compliments on the 100 thingy.

Workwise, I am being buried and barely had time to check into FP in the last days, if that continues then I can be glad if I add another 10 pages within the next year .

Anway, NowherMan6 is right, if there is one thing you guys can rely on then it is the fact that I like change, at least when it comes to my tanks

About the tank in itself right now: I still have all Espei as last weeks power outage cancelled the plan to fish some out and bring them to the LFS. I will try to do it this week then, maybe Thursday or Friday.

Thanks again,

Ingo


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Ok,

Things have changed, some of the Espei have been traded in at the LFS. As usual, it is quite a challenge to catch them in the planted tank, but with one larger net being held in one position and the other smaller one used to herd them in it took me only about 30 min to get around 30 of them (I think it was 29).

Here is a last shot of the larger school before I got started.

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Large School



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And here are the fish, ready to be brought to the LFS. If you want to, go ahead and count them as I come up with 30 or even 31 in the bucket.

That means, overall I already traded in about 60 Espei, all from the original 12 that I bought.

And - If you would like to know what I did with the store credit that I got, you will have to check in a few minutes into my 40G log

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Fish-Bucket



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So being you have taken 60 out of the tank. How many would you guess you have now? Do you still think they are breeding?

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Wings,

I would guess that I have between 30 and 40 left, maybe more. I will try to get a rough count during the next water change. I picked fish for the LFS that are not too small or too old (fully grown adults, most likely still my original 12), this way I should be able to have more of them in the future.

I still see one or the other rather young fish (maybe 1 to 2 months old), although I haven't seen any tiny fry in quite a while as they must be better at hiding these days - given that there are/were about 100 fish in the tank that all would not hesitate to eat fry.

Assuming that the cut in numbers is significant enough, and that the Espei are in fact still breeding, I should see a few babies in not too far of a future.

Ingo


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Weekly Tank Update - Week 44

Similar to the 40G, this tank has seen a few changes within the last week, but nothing major. And similar to the 40G's weekly update for this week, I will first go and show a full tank shot before mentioning the details (and a few questions) in the detail shots.

Here is the tank last weekend:

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Last Weekend



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And here is the tank now this weekend, after trimming and water changes.

As you may notice, the Star Grass still has not reached a visible height behing the main wood group, I really had to trim it way back after the power outage.

More obvious is the change to the right side of the tank, in particular the Hygro group. Here is the full tank shot:

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Last Night



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This change was required as the Hygro group occupied way to much space in the tank and also reached a height that shaded everything else on that side of the tank. Remember that I planted them in such a large area to be able to reduce the size of the Star Grass group while still maintaining a large number of fast growers. Here is a shot of that hygro group before trimming:

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Hygro Jungle



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And here is a close-up of the same area after trimming. I have to confess that I did not take this shot to show the hygro, but rather the rainbows and a few of the Espei. It ever so happend that the hygro formed the backgroud for this come-together.

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Lower Hygro and Fish



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Overall, I did not only remove and trim every hygro stem in the tank, I went a little further:

I went ahead and removed all remaining green Wendtii plants from the right side of the tank, they were located at mid level, were mostly invisible from the front of the tank, were heavily shaded by the hygro to the point where 2 of the original 5 plant plugs were compeltely wiped out.

These green Wendtiis have been replanted between the Anubias (to their right) and the brown Wendtii (to their left) in the area formerly know as Rock Valley. I dont know how they will handel the replant or the larger amount of light, but I pretty much had to do something.

This also concluded in the right area being all available for the hygro and I planted it there rather densly but overall in much less of an area than what it occupied beforehand.

Here is the Wendtii

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New Wendtii Spot



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Ok, shift of topic for a while, on to fishies. I actually did not want to show any Otos, but I was happy to see most of them in the tank. Nevertheless, I only counted 5 out of 6, but that is more than I can account for most of the days.

So, here is an Oto

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Oto



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And here is a shot of two more Otos. If you look at the one in the background, doesn't he/she look somewhat like one of these leopard Otos or whatever they are called?

I like the way Otos "freeze" when approached, their way of defense.

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2 Otos



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The main fish of this week was the Espei. I managed to sell 30 of them to the LFS (trade in for Apistos, in case you didn't know). I avoided selling the fully grown original 12 and very young ones. I attempted to count how many are left in the tank during the water change, I guess it must be somewhere between 35 and 40, hard to tell.

This means that I have in the tank:

- 2 Pearls
- 2 Apistos
- 6 Rainbows
- 6 Otos
- 40 Espei

= 56 Fishies, that should be a managable number. Given tetratech's persistent statement that my lare number of fish is part of my algae problem, let's see if this makes a difference.

In honor, here is an Espei (female - middle aged):

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Espei



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Here, almost simply for the fun of it, is a colorful shot of the area where my Nana and Barteri (and Congensis) are located. In the following two pictures I will ask a question with regards to the smaller crypts in the foreground, but they are hard to identify in this shot. This side of the tank looks very natural, with all the plants growing into each other.

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Field



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On to the last two pictures of this series, but have a question attached (actually, it is the same question).

I purchased a bunch of different Crypts over time and lost track of which one is which. Two of them started off looking almost the same, but one grew quite tall compared to the other and its leaves also look a little different.

I believe that one of them is a Lucens, while the other is a Lutea. Any idea which is which?

Here is the taller one, approximately 4 to 5 inches tall:

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Crypt I



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And here is the smaller one, the shot was taken from the top of the tank when the water had its lowest point during the water change. The plant is at max 2 inches tall, most leaves are beween 1 and 3 inches long and grow pretty much sideways rather than up.

That is it for now,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Crypt II



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56 Fishies, that should be a managable number. Given tetratech's persistent statement that my lare number of fish is part of my algae problem, let's see if this makes a difference.
For how long, with those rabbits in there. Let's go back to basics:

Sing to the theme of "One Fish, Two Fish"

More fish, more poop
more poop, more waste
more fish, more food
more poop, more waste
*Chorus*


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Post InfoPosted 30-Jul-2006 15:41Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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EditedEdited by NowherMan6
This was probably discussed a while ago and I missed it, but LF, rather that cull the fish, why not just get an extra filter?

It's not that I disagree with the low-bioload being easier idea because that's pretty well set, but to what degree? I don't think you have a ton of fish in there for a 125 gallon tank. How is it that Amano is able to keep schools of 100+ fish of similar size as espei in similar sized or even smaller tanks without problems? And this is a long term deal as well, not just for a photo shoot. I think the algae outbreaks have more to do with stirring up the substrate and not enough filtration than just having too many fish.


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Post InfoPosted 30-Jul-2006 16:38Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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rather that cull the fish, why not just get an extra filter?
Culling? Who is culling? I only ever culled fish in my 29G, but never in this tank. If you call a trade culling then so be it, but otherwise

Ok - here are a few comments to this quote:

- The number of Espei in the tank was too large. If you have fish of one school spread out throughout the tank you rarely have a chance to see them parade as a school. Yes, they do hang out in formation, but real perusing did occur only after feeding, I guess they had some form of a workout program to stay in shape. With a smaller number of fish this school swim thing happens more often.

- My main reason not to get a second filter is the current. I find my tank to have more than enough current for my fish, actually they mostly like to hang out in the area below the spraybar current, I assume because it is the least strong there.

Ingo


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If you call a trade culling then so be it, but otherwise


Please take no offense, it was a poor word choice, just meant thinning out the populations.

Those are good enough reasons, I was just trying to think of some other ways that didn't invlove thinning them out...


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No problem NowherMan6,

I just feel very guilty when I cull fish, taking its life although the fish is perfectly healthy and what not (not so if it is sick, I have no sorrow in that case).

Trading fish in is very hard for me as well, I never know where they will end up, but I can be almost certain that it will be at best equal to what I have to offer. So, in most cases, they will end up less fortunate than before

That are the times when I try really hard to remove myself from the emotional attachment to the fishies and try my best to see them as goods, but more often then not I am aware that I fool myself, they are my babies

Ingo


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- My main reason not to get a second filter is the current. I find my tank to have more than enough current for my fish, actually they mostly like to hang out in the area below the spraybar current, I assume because it is the least strong there.


Current also means food movement. Thus why I caught so many small mouth bass last night....

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That are the times when I try really hard to remove myself from the emotional attachment to the fishies and try my best to see them as goods, but more often then not I am aware that I fool myself, they are my babies

Spend some time in a LFS and you'll lose your emotional attachment very quickly. No offense LFS workers, but with the volume of fish there are so many casualties, etc. in any given day even in the best stores.

Your "too much flow" ponders another point. Eheims are marketed as a superior biological filter because of the size and contact that the water has with the biomedia. If you compare othe brands to the Ehiems their flow rates are much higher for the same tank size, because eheim claims the slower flow brings more contact with the biomedia thus filtering the water better. So if you took two filters and slowed the flow on both of them. You would have double the biomedia compared to the one filter but slower flow thru each. Wouldn't this solve your current problem and also increase filtration.

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The 2nd crypt is definately a Willisii, not sure if it's Willisii "Lucens" but could be.

I believe the first one to be Lutea.They get quite big about 8ins.


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Thanks Bensaf for the Plant ID, the Lutea took forever to reach its current height of 4 to 5 inches, so I assume I would have to wait quite a while longer for it to get to 8.

I guess I will have to see when I am willing to shell out another $200 for a second filter for the tank. I promise I will think about it.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 31-Jul-2006 14:03Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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I'm unwilling to beleive that the tank has too much flow, sorry LF. If anything your fish are just being lazy couch potatoes, they can definitely handle more flow, and will probably be more fit as well(yes, there's such thing as a "fat" fish, SW tanks are notorious for too little flow, thus creating lazy fish) At the same time, I would think that it would be able to keep up with the bioload, it is a bit overrated for your tank, but I'm not experienced with eheims. I find fluvals expensive.



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just being lazy couch potatoes




Well, you may be right, but the only fish that hang right in the current are the contenders for the "Espei of the Day" award, aka upcoming younger males that use the current as a fitness studio.

Plus - I have a small Rio 50 power head in there to help shooting the CO2 bullets all the way to the other end of the tank.

And about Fluval being , I am surprised you haven't shown us you DIY canister filter yet, Matty. Rigged from an old blender engine, an old coke bottle, and bycicle tires as the hoses

Ingo


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tetratech
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EditedEdited by tetratech
I'm unwilling to beleive that the tank has too much flow, sorry LF.
I would have to agree with this.
Plants and hardscape also break up flow so the fish would have plenty of room to move out of the flow, etc.

Actually the 2028 has about 40% more gph than my ecco 2236 and your tank is about 40% bigger, so I think we are in the same ballpark, although your tank is only about 30% bigger from left to right. In my tank I could see the wisteria all the way on the right (opposite side of spraybar) swaying gently in the current.

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Rigged from an old blender engine, an old coke bottle, and bycicle tires as the hoses


I've thought about rigging up a cannister, but once you add it all up it's probably pretty similar in price, and less functional.



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I've thought about rigging up a cannister
I am not surprised, if there is anyone I know who could do that then it is you, Matty

Tetratech - I can't let go of the second filter topic just yet. If you say that proportionally we are in the same ballpark with our filters, and if I count our fishies (in which case I actually now have less than you), then shouldn't my current one filter setup be sufficient?

Ingo


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EditedEdited by tetratech
Tetratech - I can't let go of the second filter topic just yet. If you say that proportionally we are in the same ballpark with our filters, and if I count our fishies (in which case I actually now have less than you), then shouldn't my current one filter setup be sufficient?


LF,
I don't propose to be a scientist, I try to use my gut and keep things simple. If your algae issues are ending then this is a moot point, but yes I believe our filtering capacity to be similiar, but that's where the similiaries end.

For starters you are running more light. I'm not sure exactly what your midday burst is but you have alot of light. IMO it is very difficult to maintain an algae free tank by traditional means with that light, fish load/feeding. Feeding and hight light is one of the most understated problems in planted aquaria. Because not only are you leaving behind uneaten food on the substrate, but you are causing the fish to poop more. It's a double-edged sword that combined with high-light is lethal combination.

If you continue to have algae problems and your plants are growing than something is out of balance and it's not your ferts.


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Good points, and it makes a lot of sense, tetratech. Thanks a lot

My midday burst is only 1 hour (3 to 4 PM), my total light duration is 10 hours (11 AM to 9 PM - and keep in mind that the tank is in the basement, ergo has very little natural light coming in beforehand).

Feeding has been reduced, based on your advice, and includes at least one non-feeding day per week.

I am slowly changing the tank around little by little, trying to make it nicer and to create more of a scape. This process may increase the chance of algae temporarily, but we will see how this evolves in the long term.

Thanks again,

Ingo


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Slooow moves, baby, slooow moves .

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Tetra provided a nice summary of the extra filter idea. Just to add my own two cents: it seems to come down to whether you want sufficient filtration, or extra filtration, and rule of thumb is when it comes to filters, go with too much rather than too little.

If you look around on other plant websites like APC and plantedtank.net, look a the set-ups for larger tanks, especially long ones. There's just about ALWAYS two filters on those things. As tetra said, the idea isn't necessarily strength of flow, but the amount of bio-media available for bacteria to colonize, which in turns allows the removal of the things that cause algae in high light tanks. You could always turn down the flow rates to stop water of swishing around so much and bending the plants, but this would still allow for more fitler colonization. Just an idea... and it is a lot of money to put in for something that may not be necessary.


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Nice follow-up, Nowher, glad someone is one the same page as me.

Just an idea... and it is a lot of money to put in for something that may not be necessary.

To be a true protist buster, I believe in attacking from both ends, so ideally you would want to go with a bigger or another filter and you reduce lighting, fish load/feeding, but any of these would help. The filter isn't necessary, but hey if LF wants stock which most people do than you need the filter.

I'll give too extreme examples with and without much "visible" algae.

Outdoor fish pond:
Closed system with a high waste load and all that light (sun) causes most of these systems to always have unslightly algae problems. Plant mass usually isn't all that great.

Natural Coral Reef:
Ever snokel or scuba thru these. Crystal clear water teeming with life. Same sun, but an endless biofilter from the reef,live rock, etc.

So in order to come closer to nature, one must increase the capacity of the filter so the system is larger. Isn't this the whole idea in saltwater, with hugh sumps, etc.

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What if you just add an extra bio area to the filter. PVC in line with your can. filled with bio balls?

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All are very good ideas, thank you very much guys.

I will consider each option carefully (meaning - it will take some time for me to change something).

Now a days I am enjoying the increased swimming activities of my Espei, finally they have some space to move around

Ingo


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Outdoor fish pond:
Closed system with a high waste load and all that light (sun) causes most of these systems to always have unslightly algae problems. Plant mass usually isn't all that great.


This hits home. Tons of people come in every day asking why they have algae in their ponds. My answer: Light and waste. Then I get this look: . I ask what filter they are using, and they tell me what kind of pump they have for their waterfall. "That's not a filter." Then I get this look: . I show them our setups which are 5Gal. buckets ghetto rigged with bioballs and filter floss. They either walk out with a tetra brand or a good idea in their head. I also ask how many plants they have floating on the surface(light) or something else to block the light. "Oh, I got a couple of these, and a couple of these." I tell them that having 1/2 to 3/4 of the pond covered will help reduce the amount of light that hits the pond, and the extra plant load will help pull out waste. I get this look: . The ones that follow my suggestions then give me this look a few weeks later .

What if you just add an extra bio area to the filter. PVC in line with your can. filled with bio balls?


DIY - I like it



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Yeah,

Me and DIY .

I would spend so much time on research and development that, if I calculate the hours times the money I should be paid for this time, it will run way more expensive then if I simply go out and buy an off the shelf unit.

But maybe I can contract Matty to rigg me one

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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
WOW

I just came back from the Big Al's website and to my surprise I cannot find Tropica Master Grow there anymore?

What is going on, am I just not able to find it?

If it isn't sold anymore (and I need a BIG bottle) what is a feasible replacment? They have 2 liter bottles of Seachem Flourish, would that be the equivalent, or i Flourish Trace missing in that equation?

Any help would be appreciated,

Ingo

EDIT: They also have 2 liter and 4 liter bottles of Flourish Trace, should I go for both together (Flourish and Flourish Trace)?


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I just came back from the Big Al's website and to my surprise I cannot find Tropica Master Grow there anymore?


LF,
You have to call them. They are overhauling their website and it's all screwed up. I have all these VIP points and it's not showing up

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LITTLE_FISH
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Aih

I have thousands of points as well, and would like to add more. I guess if I call them then I would not get the points for this order, right (I am also buying a AC 50 filter for my neighbor, I can't stand his catridge throw-out filter for his 10G)?

Thanks so far tetratech,

Ingo


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EditedEdited by tetratech
I have thousands of points as well, and would like to add more. I guess if I call them then I would not get the points for this order, right (I am also buying a AC 50 filter for my neighbor, I can't stand his catridge throw-out filter for his 10G)?


They might accomdate you on the points if you call.

BTW - I stopped buying set catridges for my filters. I have an AC 20 on my 12g and I have some efisubstrate in a bag and the sponge that comes with the filter, so I never have to replace anything.


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LITTLE_FISH
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And I use only sponges (2 on top of each other) in my AC50 and AC70.

But, to get back on topic, let us assume they don't have TMG anymore, is Flourish AND Flourish Trace its replacement that I should use? And if so, in what proportions (50/50 or 25/75 or what)?

Thanks,

I will wait for the answer before I call,

Ingo


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tetratech
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But, to get back on topic, let us assume they don't have TMG anymore, is Flourish AND Flourish Trace its replacement that I should use? And if so, in what proportions (50/50 or 25/75 or what)?


I could only speak from my own experience, but I don't use trace anymore, I just use Flourish 3 times weekly. I haven't used Flourish potassium, trace as long as I could remember and I'm not really using Flourish Iron anymore either.

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Boah,

there is actually a thread on APC with regards to Tropica and the TMG. Supposedly they have a marketing change and do all kinds of stuff.

Just type Tropica Master Grow in the search at APC and then select the ""Tropica Plant Nutrition+ Liquid" - new Tropica products availability?" thread.

Guess I am out of luck

Ingo


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Yup,

So I called Big Al and guess what:

They do not have TMG per se anymore, instead they are getting this week the whole new line of Tropica plant care products.

I had a very nice and knowledged gentleman on the phone, he informed me that instead of one mix there are now 15 or so components that one would have to buy (I guess he included the macros) .

It is not on the website yet as not all products have been shipped from Tropica just yet, but keep your eyes open - it should be there within this week.

I bought TMG for its simplicity, what are they thinking!!!!

I guess I will go with a smaller bottle of Flourish for the time being until we know more about this Tropica Attack.

Thanks,

Ingo


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tetratech
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I bought TMG for its simplicity, what are they thinking!!!!


Then I think you'll be fine with the Flourish (It's got FE in it) I havent seen any difficienies and my Rotala has nice red hues to it.

I'd like to say a small pray, for all of us living thru this heatwave that we don't lose power. My unheated swimming pool is reading 90F.



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NowherMan6
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Can someone clarify for me: what exactly was Tropica master grow? Was is a combination of macros and micros? Just Micros and traces? Did it contain Ca and Mg?


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By Flourish you mean the Seachem Flourish right? It's funny that this came up as I was asking a similar question in my 25 log.

As for the heat... well not much sympathy here! After spending my whole life in Sunny Central Florida and now Houston that is pretty much the norm in the summer time. It is kind of funny that you all are pretty much hotter than us right now though.


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Rick - Sure, tell us what softies we are, but for notherners like us this is pretty hot, plus about 5000% humidity ().

I used TMG for my micros, and I think this is what it was mostly composed of. I don't even know the exact content, I believed Bensaf and Untitled that it was good as they introduced me to fertilizers by telling me I always have to carry a bottle of it around, no matter where I go.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 02-Aug-2006 23:23Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
bensaf
 
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TMG is a micro fert. The best for me. It seems to give plants a sheen that others are lacking. Flourish is good too. No need for the Trace if using the regular Flourish.

The change in the Tropica products is a bit confusing but no means does it mean you need a lot of bottles to replace TMG.

A bit of background - Tropica was bought out about a year or so back. There is a new CEO. This new range is his idea it would seem.

While I would agree with the idea of the new products - which are basically a response to the hobby becoming more sophiscated and high tech, the insistance on producing products that "contain no nitrate or phosphate" is now old hat - the name change is a marketing disaster IMO.

Basically TMG will still be the same product but with a new name Aqua something or other.Still a micro fert. The other products are a macro fert with N+P, a potassium fert, a root tab and I think an Iron only fert. Pretty much like the Seachem range. If you are using the dry chems you'd still only need the micro fert. The other are a replacement for the dry chems which can be pretty hard to get in some parts (especially Europe), after all KNO3 can be used in bomb making, it was certainly an old favorite of the IRA before Cemtex was so easy to get hold of.

Check the Tropica website for more info.


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Thanks for the info Bensaf

I am mostly with you on the marketing blunder of this move. I also assume that I will have to read up more on these new products, all I can say so far is that the guy on the phone from Big Al's said that there is not ONE product that will replace TMG, but multiple that need to be used in combination. I easily imagined that the new series will include a "most micros in one shot" product, but also that Iron would be excluded from this product and has to be bought seperately. Besides that there may be other micros (mostly calcium and magnesium) that I could see in individual products.

Guess we will find out soon enough.

Ingo


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LF,

Sorry to hear that your Micro Fert is on its way out. Change really sucks sometimes! It seems that people are always out there trying to make a buck and that makes our lives a pain in the butt.

I have been using Flourish in my tank with Flourish Iron. Flourish has low % of your Macros and all the micros including iron. The only reason I am using Iron on top of reg. Flourish is an expermental thing. I am finding that my crypts are much more red in color with it. Other than that I don't see any real change.

Hoped that helped!

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LITTLE_FISH
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Sure did help Wings,

The more people confirm tetratech's usage the more reliable the information becomes (at least if the right people confirm it).

All we will have to do now is to find a Guinea Pig to test out the new Tropica stuff

Ingo


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The more people confirm tetratech's usage the more reliable the information becomes (at least if the right people confirm it).

What me and my exciting "still life" tank isn't proof enough.

Remember you also have alot of goodies in your eco. Well 3 out 4 ain't bad. I think that's a song, or no that's 2 out of 3

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Come on Tetratech,

Don't get too angry at us for talking about your Still Life.

Without a doubt is your tank in much better shape than my 125, in any aspect (well, I may have closed in on the proper fish count with the latest trade though). We bring this up because there is nothing else to bicker about

Ingo


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All we will have to do now is to find a Guinea Pig to test out the new Tropica stuff
NOT IT!

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Flourish is good too. No need for the Trace if using the regular Flourish.
For traces, I've been using Flourish Trace - but should I be using regular Flourish instead?

Cheers
TW
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Trace
Flourish

I think that Flourish has everything that Trace has and more. I haven't look really super close at it though. Personaly I would do Regular Flourish for your micros. For no other reason than the iron. Though I think we get quite a bit of micros from our WC's. Thats just me though and my two cents.

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bensaf
 
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All we will have to do now is to find a Guinea Pig to test out the new Tropica stuff


If I can get hold of it I will definately be trying it. I have a lot of faith in Tropica. Anybody who's tried their plants will tell you that. The quality is miles ahead of anything else. My Anubias and Crypt Spiralis came from Tropica - stunning quality.

Micros are very hard to get hold of here. I'm on my last dose of TMG (which I had to pick up in S'pore). There's is nobody selling TMG here anymore and only 1 place I know selling Flourish but it's in the middle of Chinatown and a bugger to get to. All I have at the moment is some unknown S'pore brand.


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LITTLE_FISH
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So I guess there is no way that you would get this stuff right away, except if you would take a "short" trip to Singapore over the weekend .

I have a while to go (maybe two months at least) before I will be in crisis mode again, at least when it concerns micros, otherwise I am in crisis mode all the time anyway .

I ordered 2 liters of flourish and will see how it works out. I would assume that regular dosage volumes, based on Seachem instructions, is sufficient, right?

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 04-Aug-2006 14:10Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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I would assume that regular dosage volumes, based on Seachem instructions, is sufficient, right

That's pretty much what I do, 3 times weekly.

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LITTLE_FISH
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So that is what I will do then as well, as soon as my TMG is totally empty (I may have about 2 to 3 weeks of stuff left).

Thanks tetratech,

Ingo


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tetratech
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I think the bottle says 1 or 2 times per week, so I'm going alittle over. Following Master Hodge Podge

BTW - I just ran out of my first container of Stump Remover (NO3) since I started the tank. It was a 16oz (454grams) container of powdered (no3)

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NowherMan6
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tetra, are you going to switch to greg watson KNO3? I like the fact that it's much more powdery than Green Light (which I have), seems to dissolve better right in the WC.


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tetratech
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tetra, are you going to switch to greg watson KNO3? I like the fact that it's much more powdery than Green Light (which I have), seems to dissolve better right in the WC.

I actually bought two containers when I first purchased at Lowes. So I have a full 16oz to go. Your right it's a larger grain size then the more powdery stuff. I basically take a plastic cup scoop some tank water into it. Pour in the no3 and po4, stir and pour it into the tank.

My Scapes
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Wingsdlc
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So I don't know if it is true around your neck of the woods but Lowes doesn't have Green Light Stump Remover any more. I have checked both stores in my area and nothing. They have another stump remover but it doesn't say what it is inside! GRR! I think I will be making a greg W. order sometime in the next couple of months. I am down to about 1/2 my contaner for Green Light.

In terms of Flourish I am doing 1 capful of Reg. Flourish (2L cap) and 1 cap of the Iron (small cap). This I do 3 times a week.

55G Planted tank thread
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[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
Post InfoPosted 05-Aug-2006 13:51Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Thanks,

I will try to get by without adding additional Iron, as I didn't purchase any

Then we have to manage to get Bensaf some of the new Tropica products so he can try them out for us.

Ingo


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Weekly Tank Update - Week 45

Not too much to say at all this week, the tank is growing and the ferts are flowing

Overall, not too much has happened, most concerned the end of the TMG era as Tropica is now selling new products that are not yet available. So I will try Flourish for a while, I will let you know when the TMG stock I have is depleted.

Strangely, I still see maybe 5 to 10 hyro leaves floating every week. This started after the power outagae over two weeks ago and had never happened before. Any ideas?

Here is the tank last weekend (comparison):

Attached Image:

Last Week



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Post InfoPosted 06-Aug-2006 12:21Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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And here is the tank now this weekend after the water change. I have to remember to turn off the light in the 40G as its reflection always creates a line in this tank when taking a picture, sorry about that.

The Star Grass is just becoming visible again, I find the growth rather slow these days. It may also be related to the fact that I had to cut them so short after the power outage.

Attached Image:

Now



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And here is a shot of the top part at low tide, during water change.

I like how the wood, anubias, and Alternanthera peek out of the water. Maybe I should reduce the water level permanently to this height and make it a palladium. But I guess that means that I have to get rid of even more fishies.

And this is it for this week, nothing more to show.

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Top Part



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EditedEdited by Wingsdlc
http://www.aquariumdesigngroup.com/detected.php?page=&pass=
Ok the link only goes to the main page. Go to the gallory, planted tanks and it is #18.

This is probably one of my favorite tanks.


55G Planted tank thread
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Post InfoPosted 06-Aug-2006 15:12Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
bensaf
 
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For me #15 is an abosolute masterpiece. A great layout for a big tank. It's a tank that anybody with the vision could grow. Fairly low maintenance which is important for big tanks. It's very similar to a tank by Luis Navarro which is just slightly better.
I get the sense this was a look Ingo was originally aiming for but it got off track.

#26 is also a nice layout for a big tank but a lot more work.

While we're at it take a look a pics #6 thru 8. This is what I envisioned the 40gal breeder to look like. Very simple but clever design.


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Post InfoPosted 07-Aug-2006 04:10Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Wingsdlc
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So for LF to get the effect of 5-8 he would have to use Nana and nana pittea or whatever it is.

I think he was really on the right track but then his plants drowned the hard scape.



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[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
Post InfoPosted 07-Aug-2006 13:55Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Thanks guys, I will have to take a closer look at the suggested numbers, but I am pretty sure that I had seen the one for the 40 before, and yes - I tried something like that.

But I assume that is what seperates me from Jeff Senske.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 07-Aug-2006 15:58Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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But I assume that is what seperates me from Jeff Senske.

Ingo don't sell yourself short. Nothing against Jeff S he is very talented at what he does. But he does this for a living and I'm sure has a large inventory of wood, plants, rocks etc to choose from to make the layout look just right. It's becuase of this reason in my opinion why it's very hard to judge aquascaping contests, etc on an equal playing field. I know they have budget scaping contests as well, but it's still difficult.

My Scapes
Post InfoPosted 07-Aug-2006 16:10Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
bensaf
 
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I'm sure has a large inventory of wood, plants, rocks etc to choose from to make the layout look just right.


This is true to a large extent. A lot of us start with a vision in our head - then out out to get the wood, rocks and plants and then can't find what we're looking for and end up "comprimising".Having high quality materials readily at hand is a huge bonus.

The opposite can be true also, some just pick up a pile of stuff and then try to make a 'scape out of whatever is at hand. That rarely works.

But desipte all that I do believe certain people just have a "gift" for this thing - an eye. If you or I had access to the same materials that some of these guys have are you still confident you could do as good a job? I'm not

Some seem to have the ability to see how the tank is going to look 6 months down the line and allow for that (but that's probably mostly experience and observation of plants). Self control (of which I'm sorely lacking) is a necessity. An eye for detail and balance.

Look at the rocks in the pic I mentioned as a masterpiece, there's a lot of them, yet I can't find one in the'scape that's in the wrong place or the wrong size. They all look perfect and natural as if they've always been there. The fact that the guy may have had to choose those rocks from hundreds he had on hand, to me, makes the achievment in the 'scape more admirable rather then less !

Remember the old story? If you leave enough monkeys alone in a room with a typewriter in time maybe one of them will do a Shakespeare. Maybe if you left us in a room with a tank and a pile of ADA kit, rocks, wood and plants , maybe one of us would pull of a tank to rival Senske or Amano.
Maybe. To my mind a big maybe. Fair dues to these guys, they have a genuine sense of creativity. They're arists we're merely artisans.


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Post InfoPosted 08-Aug-2006 04:17Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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EditedEdited by tetratech
I certainly couldn't guarantee how my creations would fair, but I could tell you that I'd rather have a closet of DW, rocks and plants to choose from than none at all. Look how good Imelda Marcus looked with all those shoes to match her outfits.

I've tried to make the most out of crappy DW, a few stem plant species and a whole lot of weeds (Wisteria).
Yes some of us have an eye for this others do not. I think it's easier to make a rock front look natural when you have more to choose from (statisically there is a greater likelihood that you'll fine ones that achieve harmony) In addtion to inventory Jeff S also has the advantage of multiple canvases to practice what works and what doesn't. When you do somthing hundreds of times you do tend to work out the kinks. Most people do get better when you get more touches.

I'll end as I began, I'm not taking anything away from Jeff S he obviously has alot of talent, but I would still rather be able to work with all his toys, both in and out of the tank as opposed to my sorry little collection of sticks and stones.

My Scapes
Post InfoPosted 08-Aug-2006 04:43Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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No doubt does availablitlity of high quality and quantity of scaping material and plants (and fancy ADA soil, one may add) have something to do with the outcome of a planted tank design.

And also, no doubt does talent and experience play a major role in the scaping process.

Given that I have None-Of-The-Above, my tank is what it is. Pretty good for an average dude, but nothing more.

On the other hand, exactly this is what gives me the option to constantly fiddle with it. To be honest, an perfect tank frightens me as I would not know what to do with it. In some stages of tetratech's tanks (both) I am looking at the pictures and think to myself "and what now".

I, for one thing, fell in love with the ability to change things around all the time, called a tank redo "Ingo Style". The most pleasing of all tanks to change is the 20G, as a whole redo takes me as long as a regular water change and trimming on the 125G.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 08-Aug-2006 13:27Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Hi there all,

10 days with no entries in my log, neither by me nor anybody else.

Anyway, I have been ultra busy at work, at the same time I had friends over from Germany for a few days, and then I went on vacation and replaced the view into my tanks (which, btw, are going down the drain, the 125 is now BBA paradise, but more maybe tomorrow or Sunday about that).

I just came back from the trip and thought to let you know that I am still around. Gotta go and unpack now, till later,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Last Week's Highlight



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Post InfoPosted 18-Aug-2006 22:43Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
NowherMan6
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LF,

Glad to see you're back. Sorry about the tanks - you didn't go crazy and start dumping SW fish into your FW tanks now did you?


Back in the saddle!
Post InfoPosted 18-Aug-2006 22:48Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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No, I did not add salt to the freshwater tanks, although it wouldn't make much difference in the 125 anyway these days, inconsistent fertilization and a lack of attention have done quite some damage.

But glad to see that you haven't lost your humor, makes me feel good.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 18-Aug-2006 22:51Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Tainted Glory
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Ingo, Midnight Madness is coming up at ABS. It's going to be my first time as a customer. Just wondering if you planned on attending. I'd like to catch up!
Post InfoPosted 18-Aug-2006 23:08Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Mike,

I guess Midnight Madness is in a week, right? I will have to think about it, there is really nothing at the moment that I would need, except maybe a huge load of plants for this tank, which I am sure they don't have.

Can you think of something that would make it worthwhile standing in line forever?

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 18-Aug-2006 23:47Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Tainted Glory
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...you mean aside from keeping me company?

Ummm, I really don't know. I don't really want anything either. I'm going to pick up a bag of Eco Complete and see if I can win some free stuff. If I have to wait in line I'll be pissed!
Post InfoPosted 19-Aug-2006 00:07Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
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EditedEdited by TankWatcher
Welcome back LF, hope your visitors & holiday gave you some great chill out time.

Anyway, what's the story with the clown You can't just put a pic up without telling us what it all means. Is there soon to be darkside log for LF. BTW, it's a nice clown.

Cheers
TW
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was wondering why you hadnt posted ingo, hope you had fun on holidays







one two three four five six seven eight nine ten eleven twelve thirteen fourteen fifteen sixteen seventeen , thats all you need.

OH TOLEEDY!
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w00! a 125 SW reef tank. Nice jorb LF!/:'



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Post InfoPosted 19-Aug-2006 06:26Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Mike - If I go then I may not get there before 1 AM, that's usually when the line gets shorter. How much do you think the Eco will go for?

Robyn and Matty - Yeah right, I got a 125G reef tank . Actually, I am currently in the middle of editing about 30 pictures of fishies from an aquarium that I visited, the best shots out of 200 that I made. I will post most of them in the marine section and some in the general freshwater, once editing is completed. I personally am so not ready for any salt tank, no way such an entity will enter the Little_Fish houseold any time soon.

Dan - Glad to see that you are peaking in once in a while

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 19-Aug-2006 12:29Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
TW
 
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EditedEdited by TankWatcher
I didn't really think you'd started a reef tank, just wanted to know the meaning of the clown pic.

I agree too, that I am soo not ready for a reef tank either, but that's what hubby has started up & my birthday present to him was one year's maintenance on his tank - I just didn't know it was going to be a reef

Cheers
TW
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LITTLE_FISH
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my birthday present to him was one year's maintenance on his tank
- Even if it would have been a planted freshwater tank, that is a very generous present that you gave there.

Ingo


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Welcome back Ingo. Looking forward to seeing the new pictures. This place sure does slow down though when the LF isn't posting.

Rick
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Post InfoPosted 19-Aug-2006 20:38Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
Wingsdlc
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So where did you go LF!?!?!

55G Planted tank thread
19G Container Pond
[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
Post InfoPosted 19-Aug-2006 22:47Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Thanks Rick - btw, haven't seen any new shots or stories about your tanks lately either

Wings - I was just at the end of Long Island, still in the state of New York.

Weekly Tank Update - Week 46 AND 47

The last two weeks were marked by a busy work schedule and vacation, and on top of it a declining tank. At least part of that decline can be directly attributed by the lack of frequent fertilization over that time period.

Here is the tank last weekend:

Attached Image:

Last Weekend - Week 46



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When I came home from the trip I found that the BBA has greatly increased, something that tetratech usually attributes to a lack of CO2. In my case, that was the only stable thing this tank received (besides light).

So this week's maintenance focussed on removing dead or heavily infested plant tissue, and it also sees the start of another round of Excel treatment to control the BBA. The isoetes lacustris had been so badly infested that I had to remove it completely.

When one looks at the tank now with regards to scaping, it is a mess. There is no scape, just plants. I am the least happy with this tank ever since I set it up 47 weeks ago. I simply cannot invision how this should continue, except with another major overhaul, and we all know what that means

Here is the tank this week:

Attached Image:

This Weekend



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LITTLE_FISH
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All I can show now are a few BBA shots, they sprout on hardware, wood, and plants (mostly on leaves that are not growing fast, like anubias and isoetes, as well as dying leaves).

First one from the top of the tank, the highest branch near the light:

Attached Image:

BBA I



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LITTLE_FISH
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Here is another one on some driftwood, but much further down in the tank and in a much darker section. Oh, btw, I believe I do not have a short high light period, as plants low to the bottom of the tank wither away, like most of my tenellus.

Attached Image:

BBA II



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Post InfoPosted 20-Aug-2006 14:03Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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And this is how the BBA looks when anchored on an Anubias leaf, I can clearly see why it contains the word beard in its name as it collects itself on the edges of the leaves.

That is it for now,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

BBA III



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Post InfoPosted 20-Aug-2006 14:05Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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I am really sorry your tank is filling up with BBA again. I would try to combat it with two things.

1. Excel to the extreme
2. Lighting break

In my tank for the past month or so I have been doing the lighting break to control the GSA. It seems to be working thus far with no signs of plant problems.

What I am doing is run the light for 5-6 hours then take a 2 hour break then back with another 5-6 hours of light. Now don't get my wrong I do have some algae but it has really really slowed down. Aglae needs long periods of light to photosynthesize while the plants can turn it on and off quickly. My plants do not pearl as much as they used to but they are still growing well. Pearling is not really a sign of growth as we have talked about before.

That's just my $0.02



55G Planted tank thread
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[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
Post InfoPosted 21-Aug-2006 01:55Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
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Thanks Wings,

I knew about the light midday break ever since I started in this hobby, and I actually used it immediately on my first tank (the 29). I kept it like that for a few months before I switched to a non-break cycle and I had seen no difference from before and after.

The reasons could be related to the fact that it was a medium light / low tech tank, but there is also a chance that it doesn't work as simple as that. I know way too little about algae to understand if a break after 4 to 5 hours of lights-on would actually harm them, or hinder their growth. Could it be that you see less algae because your overall light period has been shortened as well?

I will have to read up on that topic again, I guess. Right now I cannot recall any statement from the famous planters that suggests such a method.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 21-Aug-2006 10:34Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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The book it got the idea from is:

Encyclopedia of Aquarium plants by Peter Hiscock.

Basicly what it says is what I have already said. Aglae can not photosynthesize without long lighting periods but the plants can. It might be worth trying just to see in your high tech tank. Seems to be working for me.

55G Planted tank thread
19G Container Pond
[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
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Wings,

thanks for the info, I think I have this book

If I am not mistaken then this is the same book that suggests the use of an UGF, right?

Ingo


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NowherMan6
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When one looks at the tank now with regards to scaping, it is a mess. There is no scape, just plants. I am the least happy with this tank ever since I set it up 47 weeks ago. I simply cannot invision how this should continue, except with another major overhaul, and we all know what that means


Hey LF, I'm sorry you feel this way. I know exactly how you feel though, because that's how I felt about my 46 before I tore it down. You just feel like you have no vision, that it's so out of whack you don't know where to take it.

And keep in mind, I like the way your tank looks, at least from afar. Plants are healthy as are the fish. My old 46 looked that way too, but the blemishes are there when you look at it up close.

It's a real personal thing, these tanks. I don't want to tell you do this or do that. The thing that helped me was tearing down the tank and making plans to start over, and taking it reeeal slow and planning.

And keep in mind, even Amano says that sometimes a tank's lifespan is only a year, that sometimes the vitality of the stems runs out and the look becomes so muddled you have to start over. It wouldn't be a failure, it's just a learning experience. The thing that would make it difficult with this tank is that the plants in there already are infected with algae, so would have to be discarded. It's a big financial commitment to start over. It's also an opportunity to do things from the get go that you wish you'd done earlier.

Sorry, I hate being the pessimist You've got to do what you think is best, but if you're going to do it over, go all out and start anew.


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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
Thanks NowherMan6,

I knew you would understand

The biggest problem with starting anew would be that I cannot really take it slow then either. I have about 50 fish to house right away

If I didn't have any fish, or only so many that I could move them to the other tanks for the time being, I would rip that sucker apart in minutes

Ingo

EDIT: This was my 5000th post


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Congrats LF on the 5000th post! Rock on!

I have not found anything about UGF in this book. You might be thinking of the Encyclopedia of Aquarium Fish book.

Nowher has some good points but it is very hard being you have so many fish. Plus it is hard to let go of what you have and start over on something new.

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Wings,

Albeit it is hard to let go of things, but when it comes to plants, decoration, and substrate though I have no hesitation to do. Why else would there be the term "Tank Redo - Little_Fish Style", or something like that, here on FP .

If it wasn't for the upsetting of the balance inside the tank, I probably would do these things once every other month. This way, I could make 24 different tanks out of the 4 that I have within the course of a year

Ingo


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Yeah I understand what you are saying. Right now I try to keep my planted tank stable. I pulled up my hygro moster last night to try to get the loaches out (plus it needed a bottem trimming). What a mess! I couldn't comprehend doing a LF change.

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I though I share with you what Excel can do for the algae.

This is a comparison shot after 3 days of Excelt treatment of 50ml per day. As you can see, the algae turned reddish, a sign that it is dying.

Unfortunately, not all BBA bastions in the tank look like this yet, others range from a brownish to spotted red color to not changed at all. But I will get them eventually.

Attached Image:

Top Is Before --- Bottom After 3 Days



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And, while I was taking the pictures, my fishies of course thought that I will feed them, so they collect in the top left corner of the tank for the feast. In particular the Apistos, Rainbows, and Pearls.

After I didn't feed for a few minutes, although I was in front of the tank, the male Apisto got a little ticked off and let me know that he is expecting something.



Attached Image:

Give Me Food



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Post InfoPosted 22-Aug-2006 23:38Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Hi LF

Interested to see the excel BBA shots. As you know, I started the treatment in the 23.7G log last night. Hope it works for us both

I love your male, he's very pretty. If only I had more tanks, I want a pair just like yours or tretratech's.

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If only I had more tanks
Oh oh, this is usually the first step towards a new tank

Tetratech's Apsitos are nice, I agree. But mine are rarer , or do you know someone else here with viejita IIs

Anyway, its all just fun and games

Yeah, keep us posted how that Excel treatment is working out. I remember that the first time I did it the results showed rather quickly. The next time it had almost no effect, I don't know why.

Ingo


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EditedEdited by TankWatcher
Oh oh, this is usually the first step towards a new tank
No chance. At this stage, I'm banned from going ahead with my 4ft - it's empty in the garage & I had to shut down my little hospital tank

Apistos can be hard to find here. There are a few LFS that stock them though. Lots of africans, bolivians & ram's, they're pretty common. I can find Cac's, tetratech's (too lazy to find name), as well as some others, but my Bitaeniata was a rarer find & I haven't seen any viejita IIs. To get a viejita IIs, I'd probably need to pre order & wait ages (like I did for the dehane - & you know I gave up there). For some reason, I don't think there's enough demand for them. But maybe if they were in more LFS, that would create more demand

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LF,

Are you dosing Excel to the whole take or trying to hit different infected spots?

If you go by a medical store you can pick up syringes. Not the kind with the needles but with the bigger openings. The ones we have at my store an air line hose fits great. With this you can give the algae a direct hit. Works swell!

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Post InfoPosted 23-Aug-2006 14:18Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
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I am treating the entire tank as I have BBA all over the place and not only in one spot.

Btw, I did some focussed Excel treatment on my Xmas moss in the 29, with the consequence that some of the moss died within a week (see log)

Ingo


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EditedEdited by tetratech
LF,
What is your current co2 level? When did you stablize the co2 (tubing issue)? I would push the co2 as far as you can? I have an advantage because I'm around my tank more than you and I could monitor better. I notice if the fish look alittle funky toward the evening, I just nudge my spraybar above the waterline to get some agitation.

BBA definitely got worse when the co2 was erratic. Excel is just not a good long-term solution and it obviously has negative effects on some plants.


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tetratech,

Thanks for the advice, although I never had CO2 tubing issues in this tank (I know it gets confusing on which tank has what issue), that was the 40G.

I have no idea what the CO2 level in this tank is, but I assume it is pretty good as a constant bubbling, hacked into small pieces by a powerhead, is pushed through the tank all day long. I can go and measure though, just in case.

Ingo


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tetratech
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Oh, yeah. Me bad , but same difference. In the same way excel seems to destroy some algae, high co2 has a similar effect on it's inability to grow. I could usually tell by my hardscape if I'm going to have bba issues. The main rock gets covered if the co2 is too low, but the main rock now has been clear for about a month with constant high co2.

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Tetra,
How high do you think your CO2 is? The last time I checked mine I was well over 30ppm and I am not having any major algae issues.

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Post InfoPosted 23-Aug-2006 17:59Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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Wings,
So hard to tell by the numbers, but my ph is off the scale low (under 6 by afternoon and my kh is steady at 2.



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The last time I checked mine I was at around 6.8 at night and 7.2 in the morning with a KH of 16. That gives me a range of aboutg 78ppm at night to 30ppm in the morning. Probably a little high but I have never seen a fish gasping that the top for air.

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Weekly Tank Update - Week 48

This week was the first in three weeks that saw a frequent use of fertilizers again, plus a daily shot of Flourish Excel to combat the BBA. Both seem to have helped in improving the tanks overall health.

Here is the tank shot from last week, for comparison:

Attached Image:

Last Week



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Post InfoPosted 27-Aug-2006 13:23Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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And here is the tank now this weekend after some changes.

A purchase of some Bolbitis for the 40G meant that the Barteri from that tank had to go. Too nice to be thrown out, and too big for any of my other tanks, I added it to this one. I removed the Red Wendtii from the left side, and also disposed of the Ludwigia that was there. The whole space was then taken up by the Barteri.

The Alternanthera in that group had been moved to the back left corner, it got too tall for the spot where it was. Also, two Hygro stems sitting in front of the Star Grass had been removed.

Attached Image:

Tank Now



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As you may have noticed the Star Grass and the Hygro on the right had been growing nicely during the last week.

Here is a close-up of the Anubias group on the left side of the tank. The whole section that rised on the left side is only the one Barteri Mother Plant from the 40G.

Attached Image:

Anubias Group



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Here is a close-up of the Narrow Laaf Java Fern, a plant that I soon will have to do something about. It is getting too big for its current position and may need either trimming or placement somewhere else in the tank. I have some thoughts, but maybe you folks should give me your ideas on what to do with it first.

That is it for now,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Narrow Leaf Java Fern



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Post InfoPosted 27-Aug-2006 13:31Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Might try it back between the two large anubias. I don't know if there is room back there and if it will fit, but it might look nice there. Otherwise you could cut it up a bit and stick it on either side of the star grass. It just looks too similar to the hygro on the right to put it anywhere over there.



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Post InfoPosted 27-Aug-2006 15:43Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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My two cents:

1.Take the center push some rocks in their and make it more mound like.
2.Add anubias in and around mound.
3.Sweep stargrass around to interact with some of the other plants
4.Split the fern and divide on either said of mound and try to position some wood between it and the hygro.



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Thanks for the suggestions on what to do with the tank next. I also think that I probably will have to do something with the center group, and I fear it means that I would have to take out the wood and either chop it up or at least reposition it.

I will have to think about it for a while.

Thanks,

Ingo


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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
OK,

Here are some news with regards to this tank. I finally caved in and ordered a second filter for the tank, an Eheim 2026. This is the one I have on the 40G, and there I have it run on a slow mode. I am sure it will be more than sufficient for this tank, given that I already have a 2028 on it.

I assume it will arrive sometime next week, so I will do some changes the following weekend.

Let me see if I remember that right: place them on opposite ends of the tank, spray across the top towards the middle, maybe reduce flow on both to avoid hurricane conditions in the tank.

Ingo

Edit: oh, I just now realized that I am a contributer as well, nice


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Congratulations on now being a contributer /:'

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I finally caved in and ordered a second filter for the tank, an Eheim 2026. This is the one I have on the 40G, and there I have it run on a slow mode. I am sure it will be more than sufficient for this tank, given that I already have a 2028 on it.

I think that's a really good move. Yeah you could have the spray bars on the left and right side glass and have the co2 meet in the middle, swoooooosh

BTW - Congrats! on being a contributor. First TFH and now FishProfile, what's next? BTW - What did you contribute?


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I agree, good call on the filter. You may not see immediate results but in the long run it's definetely a good move...


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Let's go back to basics. The end-product of the nitrogen cycle is no3, right?

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What did you contribute?


Quite a few profile changes here and there, mostly on the Espei and Viejita, plus loads of pictures from fishies.

And what's next - retirement

The end-product of the nitrogen cycle is no3, right? - Right

Ingo


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The end-product of the nitrogen cycle is no3, right? - Right

O.K. So the bacteria are releasing no3 into the water column?

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Among other things, like CO2(use O2 as fuel, like us) and possibly other waste products, I'm not sure.



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So the bacteria are releasing no3 into the water column?
Yes - sounds about right

Where are we going with this? Should I add less KNO3?

Ingo


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Where are we going with this? Should I add less KNO3?
O.K. we are still on track, after Matty's "rude" interuption .

So if the bacteria are consistently releasing NO3 in the water then would there be more NO3 as you increase biological filtration?


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then would there be more NO3 as you increase biological filtration?
Hm, that is a trick question

Answer:

a) Yes: In general, more bio filter = more NO3
b) No: As the tank should have enough bacteria to convert all NO2 to NO3 already, with or without the second filter.

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Almost there. Does the respiration of the bacteria depend on how much nh3,no2 there is in the water. In other words does a smaller bacteria colony produce more no3 in a tank with more waste then a bigger bacterial colony in a tank with less waste?

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does a smaller bacteria colony produce more no3 in a tank with more waste then a bigger bacterial colony in a tank with less waste?


The question is not possible, as the size of the bacteria colony directly depends on the amount of waste.

Less waste = less bacteria

As such, there can never be less bacteria and more waste, except during a brief period where the colony needs to grow while more waste is produced.

Ingo


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The question is not possible, as the size of the bacteria colony directly depends on the amount of waste.

Well if that was the case, wouldn't there always be enough biological filtration to deal with any amount of waste. It would simply increase on the substrate, media, glass, rocks, etc.... and would make the point of adding more capacity mute.

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Well,

Then I would rather see the original question rephrased to something like this:

"If the bacteria colony that is available in a tank is not large enough for the waste produced, will there be more NO3 than if the colony would be large enough?"

In this case, the answer would be no, as less bacteria produce less NO3.

In any case, I would like to raise an additional question:

"If plants prefer Ammonia over NO3, wouldn't plants suck of the Ammonia before the bacteria colony can convert it to NO2 and then to NO3?"

Ingo


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In this case, the answer would be no, as less bacteria produces less NO3

O.K. So if that's true as you add bio capacity the more NO3 you have being produced in the tank to convert nh3. So if that's the case how would adding NO3 cause Algae?

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So if that's the case how would adding NO3 cause Algae?
Well, the only way I could think of why this would happen is if other macros or elements of the micros are out of sink, aka limiting factors.

But - and only if another thing we once concluded is true - why would I not have enough biofilter inside the tank as it is given that 2 days of power outage did not seem to cause any issues in the tank?

Ingo


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There is another dimension to the problem you guys aren't thinking about. Your filter can only bring so much ammonia per unit of TIME to your biofilter. It's very possible that your bacteria population is quite large enough to reduce all the ammonia that is brought to it into nitrate. However, your filter might not be bringing all the ammonia to your bacteria. That's the reason for another filter, not that there isn't enough substrate for bacteria, but that the filter isn't quite doing the job. You are increasint the turnover RATE.

"If plants prefer Ammonia over NO3, wouldn't plants suck of the Ammonia before the bacteria colony can convert it to NO2 and then to NO3?"

No, because plants will use a VERY small amount of ammonia. Actual ammonia is probably like a treat that is few and far between, even in your tank, just trace amounts are causing the problem. They will still get the majority of their N from nitrate.

But - and only if another thing we once concluded is true - why would I not have enough biofilter inside the tank as it is given that 2 days of power outage did not seem to cause any issues in the tank?

I thought there was an increased amount of algae since then even though the plants picked up reasonable quick? I would say that you weren't feeding and the fish probably weren't producing as much waste as normal, and the bacteria in the tank was enough to handle the situation.....for the most part. Still there were probably trace amounts of ammonia left over from the problem that your filter is having a hard time catching up with, and that's what caused the algae.

Does the respiration of the bacteria depend on how much nh3,no2 there is in the water.

Yes, when you are talking about the entire colony, not the individual. Meaning there is less respiration when there is less ammonia and nitrite because there is a smaller population of bacteria, not because each bacteria is doing less.

In other words does a smaller bacteria colony produce more no3 in a tank with more waste then a bigger bacterial colony in a tank with less waste?

My answer to this: is if Ingo does have trace amounts of NH3/4 in his tank then adding another filter will increase the amount nitrate in the tank. Not so much because of a much greater number of bacteria, but because of an increased RATE at which ammonia is being rbought to the bacteria. With another filter, trace ammonia and nitrite get to the filters faster so they can break it down faster.

That's my hypothesis anyways. Or rude interruption as others might call it



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Well I could check, but I thought the general census was that two days really isn't enough time to see any significant changes. The reason I started the thread was to see reaction to no3 levels caused by bacteria. If no3 causes algae then their is a difference between the no3 we ad and the organic no3 produced.

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EditedEdited by mattyboombatty
Tetratech, I think you are trying to undercut the entire organic chemistry field. Some people might not like that.

But really the only difference is the source. To us, to plants, to fish, and of course the algae, NO3 is NO3(which KNO3 is once it's in solution).

EDIT: I think this is the part where bensaf comes in and smacks us around a bit and tells us what really causes algae.



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Matty,

Didn't see your thread when I posted. Anyway that's more like it. I was just kinda building up to something before and you didn't follow suit. It's that DIY in you.

Anyway I agree with much of what you said, but in a big tank isn't he majority of the biofilter in the tank itself and not for example in the canister. I don't know the biofilter capacity of gravel, plants vs the for example eheim efhisubstrate. By the way eco is lava rock and supposely had a pretty good bio capacity in it's own right?

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but in a big tank isn't he majority of the biofilter in the tank itself


I think it depends on the stocking of said tank. I think the external filter's biostuffs can be vital or it can be pointless. Whenever anybody comes into our store I stress the stuff. Why? Cause I know most people are in the tanks for looks. meaning they will overstock their tank for more "color". That means more waste, cause most people also overfeed on a large scale. Therefore, biostuffs in the filter become vitally important.



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OK,

You are loosing me there in your theoretical games (although I like them, but I can't get the point). One thing is almost for sure: When I add the new filter I will limit the flow rate on both. As such, based on what Matty says, I probably will not be any better off than with one on high flow rate as I bring just as much ammonia to the bacteria as I do now.

Ingo


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On a different note:

The storm that is currently going on here, Ernesto right, is bringing mostly rain but also some wind. This in not that good as we still have some tree damages from the storm when we had the two day power outage. Branches and even larger pieces of trees are still coming down and I would not be too surprised if we will lose the power again.

This is a view from our house onto the street. This tree cracked a little in the main storm, and today it broke

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TIMBER !!!



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What a beautiful tree. So sad to see such a great whack of down like that.

Good though, that nothing fell on your house. Hope everything will be ok this time & no power loss, or anything worse.

Cheers
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Just wondering, how big are your pearl gouramis?
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Robyn - I guess they will have to take down the tree on the right completely as half of the main branch came off while the other half is still on with a severely weakened (in diameter) trunk.

coop - When I got them they were both (one male one female) maybe about 2 inches. Now the male is maybe close to 4 and the female a little over 3. I will post a picture of the male in a short while, so stay tuned


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Weekly Tank Update - Week 49

This week saw no special event with regards to this tank, I continued the 50ml Excel treatment to combat BBA. Most of it is gone by now, but at the same time I see an influx of green hair algae, in particular on the Anubias leaves. I assume one is directly related to the other but currently I am at a loss on what to adjust to combat it. My conclusion is that I will add another filter and see if that helps.

Once I place the second filter on the tank I will also rearrange the plants themselves, maybe even cut up the wood some more and change its position.

Here is the tank last weekend:

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Last Week



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Although I didn't plan to do much trimming this week, I could not avoid having to do more than I planned for. The Star Grass group had grown to the surface and was beginning to create so much shade at its own bottom that a die-off was very likely, and as such a fouling of the water. The same is true for the Hygro Group, its height started to influence the water flow and duck weed on the surface all the way to the right started to die off en masse. Both groups receiced a major trim.

This picture was taken with the light unit still pushed towards the back for the maintenance, I simply forgot to move it back forwards after I was done.

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Tank Now



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The Star Grass is still there, just very short again. After I removed the plants I notices that a major trim was required to ensure that only "good" parts remain.

Here is a shot from an angle showing the short group:

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Star Grass



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Now I only have a few pictures of fishies to show and then my update is done for today.

First of an Espei. Not because it is such a nice shot but to tell that the reduce size group is doing fine. I see way more swimming action than before and more interaction on a personal level between the members of the group. I have seen one younger fish that may be around 1 month old (maybe a little more), that means that repopulation is still going on.

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Espei



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Here is look at 5 of my 6 Rainbows, in attack formation

No, they actually don't attack anybody in the tank. I believe they evaluate leadership within the group and the acceptance of such by going into a formation like the one in the picture:

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Rainbows I



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Here is a closer look at that group, it is actually not the same shot than the one before but maybe has been taken a few seconds later. As one can see, the group hasn't moved to much, ergo - the group has a stable hierarchy.

I think it was Wings who mentioned the splashing of his Rainbows, but I can second that observation. With great frequency so I get water splashed out of the tank during feeding, they behave almost like trout

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Rainbows II



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Last but not least, by chance I got a nicer shot of my male pearl. Usually he is either all the way on top of the tank, or doesn't show me his side, or hiding in the plants after a water change (he is a chicken in some way, although he is the boss of the tank).

Coop, if you are thinking about getting them, I find them to be beautiful fishies. I don't know if anyone here had them before (I know bensaf does), I find their eating habit very interesting as well. When I add flakes to the tank they are right there in the mix and they even let me touch them during that time. All that time their mouth forms the letter O, it looks like they are singing in a chorus. Just cute

That is it for today,

Have fun,

Ingo

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Male Pearl



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I can definitely attest to the pearls being nice fish. I only had one back in my 38G, and was delicate, yet substantial at the same time.

I do wish that you'd turn the filters all the way up when you get the new one. Point the spray bars at the glass and it will deflect nicely. I do think this will help, but only if you are actually increasing the amount of filtration going on.



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EditedEdited by TankWatcher
Beautiful pics of your fish, as always. Your tank is looking pretty sharp too.

So your pearl is the boss. I thought the boss was your apisto?

Such a shame too, that you will lose that beautiful tree outside your house.

Cheers
TW
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Thanks for the comments

Matty - See, that is where you and tetratech are not in sink, or at least I interpret it this way. Tetratech stated that simply the fact of additional surface for bacteria will be sufficient. And I can see why that would be. If the flow rate is slower then there should be more "contact time" between filter material and ammonia (for example). This should help settle more bacteria than it does now.

Robyn - Well, the Apisto is the lord of the underworld, while the pearl is the ruler of heavens. The only time they get together is during feeding and the Pearls have no problems simply swimming over the Apistos to grab first bites. As such I declare him the ultimate king of the whole tank universe. He never shows off to any other fish than his wife, that is not needed if you are that much bigger I guess. The male Apisto though shows off to the Rainbows who once in a while get in his way.

Ingo


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EditedEdited by tetratech
Matty - See, that is where you and tetratech are not in sink, or at least I interpret it this way. Tetratech stated that simply the fact of additional surface for bacteria will be sufficient. And I can see why that would be. If the flow rate is slower then there should be more "contact time" between filter material and ammonia (for example). This should help settle more bacteria than it does now.


This I believe is the philosophy behind Eheim. Many Eheim canister filters that are used for planted aquaria have much less flow than other brands. If you compare flow rates beteen for example Eheim and Fluval the Fluvals have much higher GPH for the same size tank. For example:

100 Gallon Tank Max: Eheim Pro 2026 - 250gph / Fluval 405 - 340gph

70/80 Gallon Tank Max: Eheim Ecco 2236 - 185pgh / Fluval 305 - 260gph

As you can see the Fluval 305 which is actually rated up to 70 gallons has more flow than the Eheim Pro 2026 rated to 100 gallons.

The contact between the water and media is much better in the eheim thus increasing bio-filtration. I believe this is based on not only reduced flow, but better contact. I don't know about the 2026, but the ecco is one big round basket on top of each other filled with biomedia not sponges. There is a sponge on top and bottom but inbetween it's all efhisubstrate. The Fluvals on the other hand have split baskets and the water is split between going over the biomedia and the big sponge they give you which is more for mechanical filtration than biological.



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Yup,

That is pretty much how I remembered what you explained to me a while ago, and it makes perfect sense to me.

To sum it up:

The duration of the exposure to the biological filter is more important than the number of times the water flows past it. And having then about 10 pounds of biofilter in the two filters should be enough to house as much bacteria as would be neede to clean out the Raritan river (insider joke in NJ, as it is really dirty, right NowherMan6?).

Ingo


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The Fluvals on the other hand have split baskets and the water is split between going over the biomedia and the big sponge they give you


Well this isn't exactly true. The water is forced through the sponges, then into the baskets. The water is never split between the two. If you wanted to fill all the trays with biomedia, you could. And all the water that is filtered would go through that media.

Personally, I don't beleive in extra "contact time" I believe in big baskets of biomedia and higher flow rates. Big baskets means more surface area and therefore more chances for bacteria to grow and be able to "catch" ammonia. Higher flow rates means more water is brought by the bacteria, and with more water comes more ammonia, again more chances for the bacteria to catch some ammonia. If the same water sits next to the bacteria, clean of waste, what good does that do?

I think eheims are good because they have big baskets, not because of reduced flow rates. That's aside from the fact that they just make a quality peice of equipment. I think the same filter would be better with more flow.

All this is within reason. I wouldn't recommend blowing your fish out of the water, obviously. I think the case is, more often than not, that there is too little flow going on in tanks.



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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
Double Post Matty

Well, I hear you as well, and blowing the fish out of the water was actually one of my concerns. That is how the slow flow rate discussion actually started a while back when tetratech tried to convince me that I need another filter.

I always meant to say this, but somehow always forgot, so here it goes. I also think that I have more waste in the tank because the filter intake is behind layers of plants and loads of stuff gets caught in the plants and never reaches the filter. What do you think about that theory (made just Ingo crazy talk)?

Ingo


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Well this isn't exactly true. The water is forced through the sponges, then into the baskets. The water is never split between the two. If you wanted to fill all the trays with biomedia, you could. And all the water that is filtered would go through that media.

Half of the chamber of the fluvals I know (unless the new ones are different) have a basket to hold media like carbon or ceramic (I believe the Fluvals come with noodles) and the other half has a vertical type alignment that does not hold loose or bagged media, but holds a big vertical sponge running the entire height of the chamber. This sponge is pretty much devoted to mechanical filtration (of course you'll get bio filtration too, but it certainly isn't as efficient as noodles or ceramic type media.) So the capacity for the filter to have as much bio filtration as the eheim is reduced simply by volume. I still beleive the contact time with the media increases bio filtration efficiency. Why would eheim work on reduced flow. They are the filter of choice in hardcore planted aquaria by probably 80% of enthusiasts. I have only 185 gph on my tank and my filter is going up 3 feet and I have the flow reduced further buy a uv on the return side.

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Why would eheim work on reduced flow.


I answered that in my post, the media trays are bigger than fluvals and whatnot. Surface area is part of the equation, along with flow. IMO(that's all just opinion) the more flow the more ammonia that is brought to the bacteria.

If contact time is all that's important, answer this: Why increase the flow rates on filters designed for larger tanks? based on the contact time theory, you'd just make a larger basket.

Half of the chamber of the fluvals I know (unless the new ones are different) have a basket to hold media like carbon or ceramic (I believe the Fluvals come with noodles) and the other half has a vertical type alignment that does not hold loose or bagged media, but holds a big vertical sponge running the entire height of the chamber.


It's not half and half. It's more like 1/3 mechanical to 2/3 baskets(and if you supe up the mech area it's a darn good filter). I'm still in agreement with you though, that out of the box eheim probably has better management of internal space, which I said in my previous post(or two posts ).

I also think that I have more waste in the tank because the filter intake is behind layers of plants and loads of stuff gets caught in the plants and never reaches the filter.

This is basically reduced flow. It sounds like a pretty sound theory to me . The real threat, however, is a dissolved particle that can't get caught in the plants, but can be slowed down if leaves clog the intake etc.



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EditedEdited by tetratech
Matty,

This is part of a story from an aquariumfish.com article

"Canister filters, like undergravel filters, are excellent sites for biological filtration. Water travels at a relatively leisurely pace through the filter and is in prolonged contact with a large volume of filter material, which acts as a substrate for colonies of nitrifying bacteria. The greater the surface area available for the bacteria, the larger the potential bacteria population. The longer the water is in contact with the filter medium, within reason of course, the greater the potential efficiency of the nitrification process. Thus, a large-volume canister filter with a relatively low flow rate provides a superb set of conditions for the two-step conversion of ammonia to nitrate. A good rule of thumb for filter flow rates is no more than four or five tank volumes per hour."

Here's another one from a scientific site


"The longer the better"

"Broadly speaking, the effectiveness of biological filtration is improved the longer the 'polluted' water is held in the filter - i.e. the longer the retention time. The most time-consuming process in filtration is the breakdown of dissolved organic carbon compounds into simple inorganic compounds. These compounds are ultimately incorporated back into living organisms. This complex chain of processes is not instantaneous and will, even under ideal circumstances, take some time."


The above is pretty much my argument. The Eheims not ony have the reduce flow but the water goes right through all the media baskets while the fluvals have the split side and some of the water by-passes the bio media. The increased flows in bigger tanks are more a factor of mechanical filtration than bio, although I beleive there are still flow requirments to move things along.


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A good rule of thumb for filter flow rates is no more than four or five tank volumes per hour

Which eheims don't come close to.

This complex chain of processes is not instantaneous and will, even under ideal circumstances, take some time.


Well I read this article, which has a lot of calculations, and I went ahead and tried one out. The author says we are aiming for 15 minutes(.25hr) of "contact time" for clean water.

This is the equation: filter retention time = filter size/pump rate

So in the case of the eheim pro 2026 with a volume of 1.3G and a flow rate of 251g/h, the equation goes like this:

Contact time = (1.3g)/(251g/h)
Contact time = .00517hours or 19 seconds

My findings show that for proper contact time this guy is asking for either a same size canister with a flow rate of 5.2gph(1.3/5.2 = .25), or a 63 gallon filter(63/251 = .25) with the same flow rate. Souns pretty logical.



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EditedEdited by coop
I was asking about their size because i have 2, 2inch females and a 3 inch male. My male looks like yours sorta but its got more orange on the chest and a round dorsal
The dorsal fin not being pointed has got me confused.
maybe its just genetics.
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EditedEdited by tetratech
Which eheims don't come close to.

A good rule of thumb for filter flow rates is no more than four or five tank volumes per hour

Matty, I think you missed the operate word:
"no more than"

Contact time = (1.3g)/(251g/h)
Contact time = .00517hours or 19 seconds
My findings show that for proper contact time this guy is asking for either a same size canister with a flow rate of 5.2gph(1.3/5.2 = .25), or a 63 gallon filter(63/251

Here I picture Mattyboombatty, going into a backroom of his fishstore marked "Beyond Fishkeeping" and doing all kinds of strange and unusual experiments.

Your obviously as stubborn as me

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coop - Whatever happened to your initial question? Did you delete it? If so, why? Yeah, I was wondering when my male's chest will turn orange more than it is, I also have seen them much brighter than this before. He is not fully grown yet though, maybe that is why.

Matty - I may have some issues with your source for the specs on the filter flowrate and volume, but they are minor. And I agree that 15 minutes of contact time sound "a little long" (where does this value come from anyway). But here is food for thought:

If the contact time is derived from media volume divided by flowrate, then wouldn't a slower flow rate increase that contact time (as you state as well when saying one would have to slow down the filter to about 5gph)? And isn't that what tetratech implied, a slower rate increases contact?

I think we are spinning around in a circle as basically we all agree on something, but can't quite put the finger on it. Ah, now I know: Having a second filter is a good idea

Ingo


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EditedEdited by tetratech
Doesn't anyone sleep around here

Ah, now I know: Having a second filter is a good idea

And best of all it's an EHEIM!


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Yeah Baby, an Eheim
Doesn't anyone sleep around here
I am known to be an early riser, but I have to say that I was about to ask you a question like that. I guess you don't need that much sleep anymore with your old age .

Ingo


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Matty - I may have some issues with your source for the specs on the filter flowrate and volume

I got them here if they are wrong, I can do the equations with the correct specs if someone has them.

(where does this value come from anyway)


This is tetratechs article. It's about pond stuff, but really I think it's an article on a guy who has done waste management. I've heard a lot of this from a friend who is in engineering who took courses on waste water treatment. It's for seriously polluted water, which nobody should have in their fish tank. Oh read the whole thing, cause at the bottom it tells you how important flow rate is.

And isn't that what tetratech implied, a slower rate increases contact?

Yes, but I'm trying to show you what a proper contact time is, how to get it, and how very far away from it any of our filters are(even the "best" ones). Therefore, this can't be as important as we thought if we've gotten by on severely reduced contact time for all these years.

I'm going to take this statement:

A good rule of thumb for filter flow rates is no more than four or five tank volumes per hour


and this one(again from tetratechs article):

the pond flow rate is dependent on the total ammonia produced within the system, With higher stocking densities there has to be a corresponding increase in flow rate.


and mix them together. The first statement says we can't go above 4-5 times turnover rate. The second says, the more flow through the filter the more ammonia you are going to be able to reduce. So here it is: "The more flow provided by your filter, up to 4-5 x turnover per hour, the more ammonia your filter can reduce." Also, if you are willing to believe it, your contact time needs to be 15 minutes.

So lets make up a dream filter, one that this fish doc prescribes. For LF's 125g tank: 4x turnover seems ideal. That's 500gph. And 15 min for contact time. X = filter size.

.25hr = Xg/500g/hr
Xg = .25hr*500g/hr
Filter size = (you guessed it ) a 125g tank.

So LF, to get rid of your ammonia and your algae problem, you need to drill your tank and get a 125g sump. Simply getting another eheim won't cut it.

I still want to compare contact times between two of our filters, but at this point I'm just being silly I guess and taking up too much of Ingo's thread, so I'll quit being stubborn, and agree that Ingo needs another filter(albeit a 125g one).

On a side note, I do have about a 30g filter on my 30g sw tank which, from the return pump probably gets 4-5 x turnover rate. Maybe that's why I have a stable system there.



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Post InfoPosted 04-Sep-2006 17:30Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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Matty,
I respect your knowledge for aquaria immensely, but the bottom line is reduced flow increases contact with bio-filtration along with the way the water passes through the media. There is less bi-pass with an eheim compared to the fluvals I've always know.

A good rule of thumb for filter flow rates is no more than four or five tank volumes per hour

Your ready this in reverse. What it's saying is it shouldn't be "more than" 4 to 5 times, not that 4 to 5 times is what to shoot for. Are you sure we are on the same page. I'm talking about bio-filtration. Mabye if you have large fish you need more flow to get more solid waster out of the tank and into the sponges and pads.

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EditedEdited by mattyboombatty
I'm just trying to show you my side of the arguement. I've read your posts and sources and tried to make valid points. You were, but your last post is just "I'm right and you're wrong" so we'll quit there. I don't want to get people upset over a technical disagreement and I don't want to kill Ingo's thread after so many pages . You know how to take care of your tanks better than most(probably including me) and all that matters is your fish and plants are happy which they are. Honestly, there's more than one way to skin two birds with one stone. Or is it don't count your chickens in a glass house? I can't remember. Anywho, good day to ya.

EDIT: Oh, and my last post was mostly sarcastic, I realize that in all reality another filter will probably help LF out, and a 125 sump is silly business.



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Aaaannnyyyyway,

What's the matter with you guys. Don't you dare to start a war here .

Yes, you two have different opinions, and I believe that is ok. Well, of course that leaves me in the middle

Big Al f*ed up, somehow my order did not seem to have gone through as I see it still sitting in the online site (which is messed up like hell these days, at least the whole order part of it - including order history). I had to order over phone as I had a gift certificate and these cannot be redeemed online

And all day there was nobody to answer the phone there, even the voice that comes on was cut off in the beginning, starting like "Online is not available ..." Why was "Big Al's" cut off? Did they fold? The site didn't say they were closed today, it says the only day off is July, 4th.

So, and now I want entries from both of you supporting me in the rant about Big Al's

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 05-Sep-2006 01:02Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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I don't know Big Al's, can't use Big Al's (being in a different country 'n all) , but I will support you in your rant.

Big Al's you should not have mucked up LF's order & your "on-line" should be available, you should have answered his phone call & you should have been open, because it was not 4th July.

There, will that do LF?

Cheers
TW
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Man am I glad I go down the shore on weekends, that way I miss all this drama...

LF, even though they say they're open every day but 4th of July, I can see them being closed today, it is Labor day afterall...


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You were, but your last post is just "I'm right and you're wrong" so we'll quit there. I don't want to get people upset over a technical disagreement and I don't want to kill Ingo's thread

Matty, sorry I didn't mean to come across that way. Every opinion means something and my responses are definitely not 100% fact, although "I" believe in them.

I thought I ended it with a joke a couple of posts back. Anyway, let's move on.

LF,
Don't worry BigAls isn't folding. They are a very big company and have plenty of brick-n-mortar stores in Cananda and recently opened an 18,00 sq.ft. store in Florida. I think they "upgraded" to a new system and are getting the bugs out.





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*shakes fish at big al's*



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All Right Folks,

That's much better

Yeah, I didn't think they would fold, but somehow the phone message was cut off to not include the beginning, alas "Big Al's".

Anyway, this means most likely that I don't have the new filter, and the new light for the 29 (bulb), and the new light fixture for the 20, and all kinds of other small stuff by this weekend.

Do we have an extra week to "discuss" flow and such



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LITTLE_FISH
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So I called up Big Al's this morning.

After over 10 minutes they told me that the order was in this status because the Coralife fixture was out of stock. It had arrived Friday night though and now they can send it.



Doesn't sound right though, as "Item Out of Stock" is not quite the same as "Awaiting Payment"

Anyway, it is supposed to be sent out today,

Ingo


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tetratech
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After over 10 minutes they told me that the order was in this status because the Coralife fixture was out of stock. It had arrived Friday night though and now they can send it.


Lf, just curious, I guess cause you were ordering other things etc and points is that why you ordered the fixture from bigals as opposed to hellolights.

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Post InfoPosted 05-Sep-2006 17:17Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Lf, just curious, I guess cause you were ordering other things etc and points is that why you ordered the fixture from bigals as opposed to hellolights.
I went to both websites and found the price to be almost equal. And yes, I ordered way more stuff (but they don't sell Tiffany items ). And shipping is less, in particular because I had to order stuff from Big Al's as well.

Hello Lights is good when you get a great deal on a secondary light, but I am not so convinced that their "no name" brand is as good as the Coralife Brand, and that one is also pretty much the same price as Big Al's.

Ingo


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Just a quick photo before I go to bed.

Here are some of the fish during feeding. What appears to be loads of flake food pieces floating in the water are actually CO2 bubbles expelled from my small power head off the picture to the left. The food is flakes floating on the surface.

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Feeding Time



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OK,

So my order came in yesterday and all items have been delivered. Including a 5L bottle of Tropica Master Grow

When I was ordering my stuff I decided to peruse their new Tropica stuff which should have been available at that time. But what did I see there? My favorite micro mix. As I had to order over the phone anyway, I asked why it was available again. I was informed that they received 10 bottles from their store and then it would be over with it. Let's see how long it will be up on the site.

So, now the question is: What do I do with the 2L bottle of Flourish? Will it still be good when I am done with the 5L TMG?

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So, now the question is: What do I do with the 2L bottle of Flourish? Will it still be good when I am done with the 5L TMG?
A while back I was talking with the Seachem rep. and he said that the stuff shouldn't go bad. The reason I was wondering as well is because we picked up a couple of the 4L's. You might want to stick it in the frig though.

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Post InfoPosted 08-Sep-2006 13:58Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
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Wings,

Thanks a lot man, makes me more comfortable to have this stuff collecting dust.

The fridge is no option though, for the sake of the wife and the kids. Looks too much like juice.

Thanks,

Ingo


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Thanks a lot man
No problem!

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Post InfoPosted 11-Sep-2006 02:44Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
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Weekly Tank Update - Week 50

Having been at work all of yesterday the water change had to wait until today. Given that a day has limited hours and that I had stuff to add to all of my 4 tanks (check them out please, as it seems I am the only one recently to add anything to my 20 and 29 log), I only had time to do one major thing to this tank, and here it is:



On the table are the parts of the new Eheim 2026 and a new stealth heater for the right corner.

Attached Image:

New Stuff



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Here is a tank shot from last weekend to show the tank before the changes. As you can see, the Alternanthera on the left back of the Star Grass group had grown very tall and would have required a trimming anyway, but the new current made it really needed as it bent almost 90 degrees.

Attached Image:

Week 49



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And here is the tank now this weekend, after the new filter had been added. It is on the right side, with the spray bar arranged horizontally on the top of the side panel.

For the time being I left both filters on full blast and I will see what effect this has on the fishies.

Attached Image:

Now



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And I have only one more shot for this weekend, there was just not enough time to take more.

Here are some Rainbows hanging out in the new current. It seemed as if all fish were busy finding new spots to hang as the whole water flow dynamics in the tank have changed. For example, just look at how strong the Java Fern in the full tank shot is bent compared to the week before.

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Rainbows



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Other than the java fern, the rest of the plants don't seem affected by the flow, I see straight standing stems everywhere. Those are some nice looking rainbows, I hope I can get mine to grow up that healthy.



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Thanks Matty for the compliments on the rainbows

"I see straight standing stems everywhere" - Well, that is because all weaklings, aka stems, are short based on the trimming last weekend. There was a tall Alternanthera in the middle of the tank that really bent over. And during my lst trip down to the tanks last night I had the first Star Grass stem floating around the tank.

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Almost a week has gone by since my last entry in this log, and almost as long has gone by since my last entry at FP overall.

Part of it is based on enourmous overtime hours at work, but part of it is tank related.

The closer the one year anniversary of this tank (and as such tetratech's tank as well) the more it is on my mind that for an entire year I was fighting algae. And I am sick of it.

Ingo


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I here ye! Is that really you LF?

Don't think things are always so blissful in tetratech land. I had a "gigantic" mishap in my nano tank.

Log soon to be updated.



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Wow both LF and Tetra are alive! I thought you guys were gonners being it has been dead up in here!

LF,
Don't be so down on yourself about your tank. You have had some set backs but we all have. The real question is: have you learned anything about plant/fish keeping in the last year. If so can you use it to become better next year?

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it is on my mind that for an entire year I was fighting algae. And I am sick of it.


Just reading that stirs up memories. Ahhh the frustration.

I don't know if they are still around, but if you could dig up my posts from two years ago, you could see I was having the same problem. It wasn't as high tech(2wpg, DIY co2, decent fert sched.), but I had algae, and I had taken all the necessary procedures to keep plants growing ahead of the algae, but could never totally wipe it out, and it got to be a mess.

I ended up nuking the tank. If you read the first page or two of the log it was about how I had started over basically keeping only the filter for it's beneficial bacteria. I changed the gravel and bleached out the tank and heater, and parts of the filter that are physically in the water that had algae on it. I kept the fish too.

I don't like to suggest nukes, espessialy in large tanks when they cost so much and take so much time. There's always the potential that they won't work and the algae comes right back. I just think that getting rid of algae is so much harder than just never having it, and keeping it that way. If it were me and the new filter doesn't help and I felt as if I tried everything else, I'd think about it. Either that or toss everything that has algae and only keep the plants that don't have it. Keep the clean parts of the stems and what not. With rosettes you can hack off all the leaves, keep the base and it should grow back ok. Replace everything with fast growing plants and the leftovers.

To me, your tank looks great. It's not nearly as bad as mine was when I nuked it. I'd probably feel that I could get a handle on it if I could pay it enough attention, which it seems is very hard for you to do right now. Maybe you'll want to just wait on it until you get some time. You might be able to kick it.



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Post InfoPosted 17-Sep-2006 06:56Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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LF,

Don't get down, These things happen to very seasoned aquarist. People that have been doing this for a very long time. Although your already a "Master of Something" you really haven't been doing this that long.

I kinda agree with Matty. I think you need a fresh start. I would work on getting your smaller tanks the way you want them and maybe not worry so much about the plants and scaping in the big tank. How about you just reduce light to the one set and take out most of the plants. Take out the wood and clean it off, etc. Put in a few large sword plants scattered about maybe with some rocks here and there.

The smaller tanks are easier to correct if an issue develops, etc. and then when your ready move back to scaping the 125g. Have a look in mind and stick to it.
Don't think these beautiful tanks you see on line don't have issues, they do. Your looking at many time a very professional pic and it doesn't mean they didn't just top off the substrate, replace the sand, clean the wood, etc. for the purpose of taking a picture.

The new filter will help keep the tank cleaner and will be there when your ready. I also think your work schedule makes it difficult to catch things earlier. I'm home alot and am constantly viewing my tank seeing if anything is amiss. I think Bensaf stated it really well, when he said "It's a lifestyle" it really is to a certain extent. I feel I have a deeper understanding of how my tank functions and what triggers what because I do have the time to examine it, probably more than you do.

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it is on my mind that for an entire year I was fighting algae. And I am sick of it.


Hey Ingo,

That statement sounds very familiar. I don't think I've had my own tank algae free since the first month after I started it up and it has been very frustrating at times. I keep an eye on all the plant forum threads and to see the success of Tetratech and Bernard, to name a few, can make the annoyance at observing the algae in my own tank nearly get out of control. It is one of the reasons why I haven't really posted in my own log over the last few months.

I think they're right when they say that it's a lifestyle. Where you should keep track of what happens in the tank nearly all the time. For me that doesn't quite work, and in the last few months I've slowly come to accept that I'll probably will always have some of the green (grey: beard algae, I still hate it) stuff in the tank. I'm slowly adjusting my plants to work around the problem. Slow growers such as Anubias, just will not work in my tank, as the older leafs will eventually end up being overgrown with the stuff.

Maybe at some point I'll figure out what I'll have to change in order to get rid of the algae, but I no longer will worry about it too much. even with the algae I enjoy the look of the tank, and with that, the hobby. Try to take a step back, take it a little easier, and don't worry about a little bit of extra green. Your tank(s) look great, enjoy them as they are!

Best wishes,
Martin

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To all of you,

Thank you so much for your support, I really appreciate it. I am just a very tired hobbyist right now, work in the last two weeks for sure has taken its toll on me. I had to let the ferts slide as I occasionally was at home for only 6 hours total, including sleep.

I am still working on getting myself back in shape, doing a water change yesterday almost fell victim to my desire to just chill.

I will spend some time on reading your entries and I promise that I will have more to say about the details you wrote, but for today an update to this tank and the 40 will have to do.

So -

Weekly Tank Update - Week 51

The extra filtration for sure has made a change. First it was rather frustrating to see what happened, but then it made sense. An enourmous increase in hair algae really brought me down. But then I understood that I must have stirred up quite a bit of gunk with the increased water flow so it made sense that this happened. Growth seems to have been well, at least.

I did trim about 60% of my Anubias leaves off, they were full of hair algae or BBA, otherwise I didn't do too much, except trimming a few bunches of Pearl Grass.

Here is the tank last week:

Attached Image:

Week 50



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Oh, the only other thing about the tank is that one of my Rainbows isn't doing too well and I think he will go to fish-heaven in a few days. He is breathing really hard and rather skinny and not swimming with the group, aka a goner. He is the one that had a piece of his dorsal fin missing when I got him, I believe it was bitten off.

Anyway, here is the tank now:

Attached Image:

Now



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LF,

Sorry to hear about your rainbow. I had really bad luck with mine. I think it was something internal because I didn't see anything and they just started dropping. I am now left with one and it can hang out in my 29G for the rest of its life unless I find a good home for her.

As for your tank and plants. Maybe the best thing is to slow down and really think about what you want in this tank. It seems you have a liking for slow grower like crypts, ferns, and anubias. Maybe go to something more like keiths tank that is a bit more low tech. As stated by tetra, a vision and plan is a good first step. A good second step is sticking too it.

With the low techness of the larger tank will give you more options with your high tech 40G. Plus the 40G will be easier to work with because its much smaller. A 125 is a lot of tank if you have little time to play with it.





55G Planted tank thread
19G Container Pond
[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
Post InfoPosted 18-Sep-2006 14:25Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
TW
 
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EditedEdited by TankWatcher
Firstly, if you look at the whole picture (I mean the whole tank) it's lookinging beautiful. Sure, if you go in close, you'll see the algae if you're looking for it - but we the audience don't see it. Maybe like Dr Bonke, we all have to accept some algae here & there.

I'm sorry about your sick rainbow. With my recent run of bad luck, it's always been a bad sign when fish are panting. The only time I've ever been able to turn it around, once they start panting, is when it's been a C02 issue.

Hope your work settles down, 'cause it sounds like you're missing out on the joys of your family and your fish right now. Sounds like work need to put on some more staff to help you out. You're in the same profession as my son BTW (just a bit of non fish trivia )

Cheers
TW
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Hi,
Perhaps a bit late, just a thought...
I think I'd like to see the center driftwood moved
back behind some of the plants so the wood was
further back and more plants were in front of it.
That would enhance the "depth" of the tank without
needing any kind of background. Right now the DW grabs
the eye, and it is right up front.
Just something to think about....

Frank


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Tanks my friends,

Just one more day of stress at work, then things should cool off at least a little (for a while at least).

Wings - the thought off turning this tank into a low tech tank has come across my mind quite a few times by now, but there are always some plants that I would like to keep tat require a little more light and stuff.

Robyn - Hey, can you send your son over here? I may have a position for him

Frank - right on with the driftwood. The problem right now is that all this wood is one piece and actually spans the whole area from back to front, with most branches exiting further to the front. That is one of the problems, as changing this would mean to remove the wood and separate the branches, and with that I started a big change as now various other things would have to "move" in order to accomondate the new design. And before I know it, I would be in the middle of an overhaul "Ingo Style". And that scares me a little.

Hang in there, my friends, I will be back to being the normal self rather sooner than later.

Thanks for your patience,

Ingo


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Hang in there, my friends, I will be back to being the normal self rather sooner than later.
Its about time! This site has been a little dead with out you! That means I have to do my homework to pass my classes!

55G Planted tank thread
19G Container Pond
[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
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Good to hear you sounding more positive & that hopefully your work will settle down soon.
Robyn - Hey, can you send your son over here? I may have a position for him
He works for a Canadian firm & soon will qualify to apply for overseas posting - mum will miss him. They already sent him to China last December (but only for 10 days). Here's another bit of non fish trivia - hubby works for a German company - so there's 2 non fish connections.

Cheers
TW
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EditedEdited by FRANK
Hi Ingo,
Thank you, for the reply and response. Yes, it would
definitely be a chore and a labor of love to tear into the
tank like that. Just something to think about over a
quiet moment and a cup of nice hot coffee.

Yesterday was the 3rd day of what we call a "mini"
vacation. Susan and I have five weeks of vacation a year,
and we take them by adding two days to our Sun/Mon
weekends. Yesterday when we got home from Susan's dialysis
and a Dr's appointment, we'd just gotten settled in when
a tenant slammed into the access gate with her car. Back
to work with my digital camera, and as I was filling out
the Incident Report, I noticed inconsistencies and called
the police. She was in her late 40s, driving on a learners
permit with no supervision, and had no Proof of Insurance
with her. The officer ticketed her for both infractions,
gave me a "CR Number" for my report and told the tenant not
to drive the vehicle. The officer drove around the property
and parked and watched. The tenant got into her car and
drove off the property. As soon as she got onto the road,
the officer turned the lights on, and went out right behind
her...Ticket number three!
We all have stressful times at work, working on vacation
can be one of them, but sometimes circumstances, brighten
those times...

Frank


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Frank!

Don't people amaze you? Every day is something new.

55G Planted tank thread
19G Container Pond
[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
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EditedEdited by FRANK
Hi Wings,
Yup that is so true. We've been doing this for over 13
years now, I've reached the point where if the tenant gives
me a new excuse for not paying on time, I'll waive the late
fee. I haven't waived one in over 7 years.

One guy had his mother dying and him attending the
funeral 7 times.
I finally asked him just how many mothers he'd had.
between (alligator) tears he asked "what do you mean?"
I told him that he'd told us that his mother had died
7 times now over the past three years. The phone hung up
and he's been on time for the past three.

Ah well...Back to plants...

Frank


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Thanks folks for the entries

Well, not much to reports, except that work occupied me till yesterday, and that I needed all day today to recover from a massive drinking party we had last night to celebrate the completion of our work (but the next load is waiting already).

On the tank side, I think I got lucky on something for once. My last order to Big Al's included the TMG container, and this week I needed it for the first time as I ran out of my original stock. What can I say, they didn't send me TMG, but the new Tropica Plant Nutrition Liquid. I saved $20 as I paid for TMG.

The Tropica site says to dose 5ml for 50L of tank water weekly. That means for my tank (about 470L) approximately 50ml per week, much less than what I dosed in TMG (3x50ml per week). What should I do? Add what I did before or cut back to Tropica's recommendation?

Ingo


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If they seem to think it's more potent I'd beleive them. You could always give them an email or something though.



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Well, not much to reports, except that work occupied me till yesterday, and that I needed all day today to recover from a massive drinking party

So bascially your posting under the influence

Well in addition to the lights I ordered from hellolights I'm going to be placing an order tonite for plain old Flourish, I'm just about out. I was tempted to switch to TMG but I think I'll stick.

My Scapes
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So bascially your posting under the influence
I think I am over it now, but this morning I was still in bad shape

The TMG days are over now anyway as only the new Tropica products are being offered. I will keep you guys posted on how it will work out although, I can only get better for me .

With regards to the dosage. I assume that EI also means to overdose the micros a little, right? At least when compared to dosage recommendations by the manufacturer.

Ingo


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I think I am over it now, but this morning I was still in bad shape


Well I've been burning the midnight oil as well, saying up almost all nite (maybe 2.5 hrs a sleep) each nite for two nites trying to keep a deadline on a project. I was starting to really lose it.

Anyway, as far as EI and micros I always took the word "EI" literally which means it's estimative and you could miss your target low or high and you woun't have issues as long as everything else is in place.



My Scapes
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Thanks tetratech for the heads up on the micros in the EI world. I guess I will start off with about 20ml 3 times a week, that is slightly higher than the Tropica suggestion but not by much. 20ml is the TMG that I fed the 40G 3 times per week, maybe it was too much (50ml 3xweek for the 125G) and that caused my algae? Time will tell.

Yeah, living on little sleep is wearing one down, in particular when one is as old as we are . I hope you got your work done now though, time to relax again

Ingo


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Yeah, living on little sleep is wearing one down, in particular when one is as old as we are . I hope you got your work done now though, time to relax again

Thanks, I could get back to a normal existence until the middle of next week anyway.



My Scapes
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Weekly Update - Week 52

And more so -> Annual Update - Year 1

It is now one year to the day that this tank was set up. Time flies when you are heaving fun, or when you have to fight one algae outbreak after the other. Lots of stuff has happened to this tank and not all was bad, I for sure learned a lot about plants and their requirements, plus I had the pleasure to enjoy myself on all the fishies that are swimming in this tank.

Albeit this tank is not exactly where I thought it would be after one year, it has come a long way. When I started this log I stated in the Goal section: The focus of this tank is neither to win an aquascaping contest nor to win a fish contest. Well, in the end I came much closer to the second part as my Espei breeding success earned me a spot in TFH, next to Amano. This is the single most accomplishment that this tank has brought me, overall not too shabby for someone with less than 2 years in the hobby.

On to a review of the first year, here is the tank on the day of setup, before water and plants had been added. The rocks make me wonder if I should add them again as they did look pretty nice:

Attached Image:

Initial Setup



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And here is the tank right after setup,which took about 7 hours, if I remember that right. I then found to have quite a lot of plants in there, but looking at it now makes it feel soooo empty:

Attached Image:

Week 0



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3 weeks later, and with the addition of some fast growers, the tank became much fuller and growth was good. I have to say that I like the pennywort in this shot and I am constantly tempted to add some more of this plant into my tank now.

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Week 3



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By week 6 the first attempts of creating a scape were on its way, and looking at it now it was not all that bad. Rock Valley had probably its best days during that time, sags, tenellus, and glosso all grew well, although I was fighting diatoms like mad.

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Week 6



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By week 9 loads of plants have been moved around in the tank and this must have been the time when changes to a scape "Ingo-Style" became associated with complete removal of plants and what not. One can also see that this was around the time when I completely lost sight of what to do with the scape. All is random and messy:

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Week 9



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By week 11 things have changed even further, but that is not what I want to point out here. In this shot one can see for the first time that my school of 12 Espei had grown, this must be more than 12 in the right hand section of the tank.

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Week 11



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At week 15, the tank started to really look like a jungle as the Apons and the Crypt Retrospiralis grew out of control, with the latter eventually reaching 30 plus inches. Also, the glosso in the foreground became unmanageable being 3 to 5 layers deep in some spots.

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Week 15



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By week 18, nothing was in shape anymore. Not knowing how to trim most of my plants properly and the urge to protect the ever increasing number of Espei fry, I let it all grow out way too much. Plants shaded each other and I lost quite a few because they did not receive proper lighting anymore.

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Week 18



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The following week, week 19, had another major overhaul, the addition of the wood. I am sure that this was the beginning of the algae battle that I fight still today. Looking at this shot I realize that I had almost no plant mass left in the tank.

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Week 19



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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
With the Star Grass being the only fast grower in the tank around week 23, the rest of the plants succumbed to hair algae and the tall sags and crypt did not like being moved around all the time (plus my wrongly applied bleach bath during the move). The tank was on its way to a disaster during this shot.

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And so it came, at week 25 another major overhaul happened, reducing the plant mass even further. I have no idea what I was thinking; I must have been really desperate to get all the algae out of the tank at once.

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Week 25



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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
By week 30, I added a few additional fast growers (hygro) and greatly increased the mass of Star Grass just to avoid another algae disaster. Nevertheless, it didn't help too much, in shifts hair algae and BBA became frequent guests in this tank and that is still true today.

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Week 30



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Here is a shot from week 36. You can see that I gave my fast growers as much space as I could to help me control my tank parameters, but to no avail. New plants have been added to replace infested old ones, just to be infested themselves.

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Week 36



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For weeks in and out, like here in week 41, all I did was trying to regulate plant growth and trying to keep the algae in check. This was (and is) the most un-enjoyable phase since setup as all is geared towards control rather than moving forward.

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Week 41



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Here is a picture from week 47, and you can see that not much has changed. All of the last 20 plus weeks I spent on control and I have to tell you that it bores me to death. I am sure you folks must feel similar as you had to listen to my whining for the entire time.

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Week 47



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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
And here is now the latest full tank shot from this weekend. As you may see, some plants in the right front have changed; actually have been exchanged with the 40G. Some Blyxa and Pearl Grass went over to the other tank and in return some micro swords have been planted in here.

On a downside, I put the Rainbow that was weak under as I did not want to risk any infestation of the tank. But I don't know what the problem was.

Attached Image:



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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
MAKE SURE YOU CHECK OUT THE FULL YEAR REVIEW ON THE PREVIOUS PAGE

So,

With this series I would like to express my gratitude to anybody who ever contributed in this thread, one would not be able to imagine how this tank would look like now without all the help I got from you folks.

Thanks to all of you,

Ingo


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On to two more detail shot from the tank from this weekend. Here is the new micro sword section shown next to the wisteria lane. I wonder if it would do well in this kind of substrate. If so then it may be a much better ground cover plant in this tank than it was in the 40G where it was much too tall.

Attached Image:

New Swords



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And here is the male Apisto inspecting the new lawn to see if I may have brought in any goodies with it. If you look carefully then you will be able to spot a few types of algae on various sections of this shot, but I don't want to get into that topic now, this weekend is the anniversary and it will be a happy one (right? ).

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Apisto in Swords



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Congratulations on the 1 Year anniversary. /:'

Cheers
TW
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Well I have to say that my favorite pic is week 15. IMO that's a stunning planted tank. Congrats on the 1 year. I remember that I celebrated mine on the 38 by starting to forget about it and eventually tearing it down. I hope the same doesn't happen to yours.



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Post InfoPosted 24-Sep-2006 14:51Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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Hi Ingo,
You know, I'd like to see all of us do a annual recap of
our tank pictures as you did. It really brings home how
much a living tank grows and changes over time.

Thanks!

Frank

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Nice recap. I would have to agree with Matty, that week 15 maybe 18 was the most attractive looking from the pics anyway, but the tank was in need of some DW which we all know you eventually got.

One thing not discussed much is the frequency of trimming. How does that affect uptake of ferts and the ability of algae to be kept away. Some times I think the frequency of trimming is more important than actual mass, because the plants seem to increase their growth from triming. I truly thing the words "It's a lifestyle" quoted by the "Master" is the expression of the year here at Planted Aquaria. I think if you had more time LF, you might have had less issues. But these are just my thoughts, I could be way off base.

If you are going to start over, when I look at the first setup pics I could kinda see a grassy field amongst those rocks and maybe the return of the glosso to the front. But I would only suggest that if you have the ability to live the "lifestyle"



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Post InfoPosted 25-Sep-2006 00:06Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Thanks all for the input,

I agree, week 15 and 18 looked very nice, in pictures

But the reality was that at that stage the Apons and the Crypt Retrospiralis started to shade out the tank so much that over half of the Ludwigia group to the right died off because it didn't get any light anymore. And the moss was out of control with algae and trimming created a huge amount of free floating pieces that I still find in the tank today. The glosso was a mess and would have required almost weekly trimming.

So, even then the tank was not stable.

Coming to think of having more time for the tank in order to live the lifestyle: I don't know if that would work for me, I would mess with it every day I guess. I just cannot keep my hands out.

Anyway, Tetratech - your tank is today one year old as well, maybe you should follow suit and show us an annual review as well

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 25-Sep-2006 00:24Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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Anyway, Tetratech - your tank is today one year old as well, maybe you should follow suit and show us an annual review as well

Did we start on the same exact day. I can't even remember. I know the dates are all screwed up in the thread, but I was thinking of just letting you have the day....

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Post InfoPosted 25-Sep-2006 00:44Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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tetratech - I share all my days since one year with you, and I have no problem sharing this one as well

Yeah, I think we started at exactly the same day, with different end results though

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 25-Sep-2006 01:08Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
slickrb
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Congrats on one year with this tank. Keep up the good work. I think the tank looks very nice as always.

Rick
See all my pictures at Google Web Albums
Post InfoPosted 25-Sep-2006 01:49Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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tetratech - I share all my days since one year with you, and I have no problem sharing this one as well

Thanks LF. It might have to wait till tomorrow because I'm having serious issues with my &*$% laptop and I might have to transfer all my pics to another computer, but I do have fresh pics of my nano (check log) and I'm about to post a new 12g pic as well.



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LF,

Isn't is crazy how much our tanks can change in the course of a year. A while back I was looking at some of my old tank shots and couldn't beleive that I was happy with it. (I might have had 10 plants in there total!) Now today it is getting closer the the LF jungle style - the algae and maybe I have just been lucky that it hasn't taken over as I am now running 6.5WPG.

Thanks for all the post with weekly/now yearly updates. It has been great to follow and learn from.

PS. I really like the chain swords up front. I think you need something low like that to add depth.



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Post InfoPosted 25-Sep-2006 14:34Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Thanks guys for the comments

Yeah, the chains looked nice in the front for a while, I agree. But then they started to spread out to the back, the front ones got covered with some form of thread algae, they also got so dense that they shaded each other and created a lot of dead leaves in the process, overall - it got messy.

And currently, the few remaining chains are barely hanging in, sometimes they seem to die all together, for no reason that I would know off.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 25-Sep-2006 16:30Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
NowherMan6
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Congrats on one year LF

I came into this log a little late, a few weeks into it I believe, when you tetra and bensaf were like the Three Stooges on the board. My appreciation for planted tanks has taken off since then, and I really believe it started with this log, so I thank you for that /:'


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LITTLE_FISH
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Oh thanks NowherMan6

Yeah, I remember the 3 Stooges, and then we moved on to the Brady Bunch as we became a larger family. I wonder what organization level we have reached now.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 25-Sep-2006 20:31Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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Yeah, I remember the 3 Stooges, and then we moved on to the Brady Bunch as we became a larger family. I wonder what organization level we have reached now.
The 3 stooges People in "glass cages" shouldn't throw stones.

Anyway, it's interesting that this site is open to pretty much everyone in the world and the regulars are 2 jersey guys, 2 new yorkers and a gal from downunder

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Dr. Bonke
 
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Odd, I somehow totally missed the previous page with the full year recap. It's actully quite a good idea, I may consider doing something like that too In any case, congratulations on the full year anniversary. Even with all the algae trouble, in my opinion you have one of the most beautiful tanks on these forums, well worth the effort it takes to maintain
Post InfoPosted 25-Sep-2006 21:43Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
bensaf
 
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Congratulations on the one year mark. To your credit , despite the issues you had, you kept ploughing at it and even increased the number of tanks.

Unfortunately, for reasons you are aware of, I haven't been able to participate much recently. But I do try to keep up to date with various logs. Still interesting after a year and so many posts


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Post InfoPosted 26-Sep-2006 03:54Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Oooohhh Bensaf,

It has been a long time since you last posted to my log, did the 3 Stooges comment get you out of hiding or was it the anniversary?

I hope all is well with you, my friend

And thanks for the compliments on me not caving in, I appreciate it.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 26-Sep-2006 15:39Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
bensaf
 
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I hope all is well with you, my friend


Everything swell, just been awesomely busy. Basically I'll be unemployed after this week so I'll have a bit more time for writing. Although I will be busy preparing to pack up.I'll definately be moving on at the end of Oct., it's just a matter of to where.It looks like I'll be returning to Ireland.

Of course in our world packing up means tearing down all the tanks I'll have to find good homes for the fish and plants.

Chances are I'll be out of the hobby for quite some time. I'm wondering if the pull will be there to start up from scratch again ?


Some days you're the pigeon and some days you're the statue.

Remember that age and treachery will always triumph over youth and ability.
Post InfoPosted 27-Sep-2006 03:56Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
FRANK
 
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Hi Ben,
I'm saddened to read of the employment issue and the need
to move. I wish you and your wife luck, fair winds and
following seas. I hope that you will find time to write
now and then.
Sincerely,
Frank


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Post InfoPosted 27-Sep-2006 07:34Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Boah,

That is tough stuff there, Bensaf. I don't think we are ready to loose you to the inactive side of the hobby. Instead you should see this as an opportunity to start a brand new tank and with it a LOG here at FP (just trying, I know it is lame).

Hang in there,

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 27-Sep-2006 14:37Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Wingsdlc
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Best wishes Ben! You could always go the the Tetratech micro mini tank thing. You have been great help to many of us!

55G Planted tank thread
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Post InfoPosted 27-Sep-2006 15:03Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
NowherMan6
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Best of luck, Bensaf. Godspeed to you as well in your new endeavors.

I certainly hope your time out of the hobby isn't too long, and I certainly hope we'll all be here to welcome you back when you return

Just don't get rid of that beautiful rimless tank you have, there's a certain pull to those things that will get you back into it as soon as your able.

Thanks again for the help and words over the past year.


Back in the saddle!
Post InfoPosted 27-Sep-2006 15:40Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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Bensaf,
This is the first I've heard of these issues. I'm sure it will all balance out nicely just like your scapes. We'd love to have you in the states, any chance of that happening? In all honestly, I'm not sure if I would have my tank today if it wasn't for your voice of reason coupled with a kin since of humor. We miss your input around here, but I'm quite confident I will see one of your scapes grace the forum in the not too distant future.


My Scapes
Post InfoPosted 27-Sep-2006 15:58Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
TW
 
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EditedEdited by TankWatcher
LF, I forgot to say how much I enjoyed your annual recap.
You know, I'd like to see all of us do a annual recap of our tank pictures as you did.
Well Frank, where is yours. I don't know if I've ever seen any pictures of your tank & I think it would be nice to have a peek at it.

Bensaf, I hope you don't stay out of the hobby too long. Thanks for the help you gave me when I was starting out.

Cheers
TW
Post InfoPosted 27-Sep-2006 16:53Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
mattyboombatty
 
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Bensaf, I'm sorry about the tough luck and need to move. I've moved all over this country, and I hate it every time. At least you might be going to the land of Guinness. That can't be all bad. I'm sure the pull will be there to start back up from scratch. It only took me a couple weeks to start missing mine when it was down this summer. We'll be here when you get back into it. Good luck with the move.



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Post InfoPosted 27-Sep-2006 18:14Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
bensaf
 
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EditedEdited by bensaf
Good grief guys, you all sound so morbid It's starting to feel I'm attending my own memorial service Appreciate the kind words but really it's nothing too serious , just a big pain in the butt to be honest.

Without wanting to move the thread off topic, but just to put peoples minds at ease I'll give you a quick rundown of what's going on.

I worked here for the Indonesian production center of a Singapore multi national. Basically the Jakarta factory was closed down in August. What was disapointing to me was the manner in which the closure came about. It wasn't due to any of the normal financial or business reasons but mainly to do with a CEO and shareholder who got themselves into personal difficulties. Their behavior since has been shoddy and unprofessional to say the least.
For the best month I've just been cleaning up the mess, selling off the assets etc which has just kept me very busy and not much time or inclination to post.

As for future plans - well at this stage of my life my #1 priority is the happiness and comfort of my wife. She is my life, end of story, period nothing more to say. While my first preference would be to move back home it's a bit more difficult for her. She has a very large family here to whom we are both very close ( see the AV ) , she never lived away from home til she married me and moving to new continent would be a huge step for her. It's a step she's willing to take but a few more years here would be preferable to her. So I agreed to try to find a job here before making a final decision. I owe her that much at least for the joy and love she has brought to my life.

A westerner trying to find a job here ( or at least a job I'm willing to take) is not so easy. There are still a couple of possibilities but nothing definate yet. If nothing suitable is found by the end of October we have decided to head back to Ireland. I still have a house there and work is easy to find, my main problem would be choosing who to work for, so really there's no financial pressure or concern.

The company did want me to move to one there other locations but I would no longer work for these people if they were the last employers on earth . I've had other offers in Asia and, yes, even the US tetra , but I've turned them all down. If I'm going to drag Safrina around the world it's best to head back to the 'oul sod, where we have friends both Irish and Indonesian, plus my own family who adore Safrina as much as I do ( I'm sure my Dad likes her more then me, he learned how to use a cellphone just so he could text her ). All of this will greatly help her settle in.

A decision will be made either way by the end of October.

As for the tanks, well if I stay here it'll be just a matter of tearing them down and setting up in our new home, fairly painless. If we move back to Ireland well I'll have to give everything away, can't be dragging all that stuff around the world. Of course everything is more expense in Ireland as regards the hobby and certainly I won't have access to all the rare plants and fish I do here. Plus I'll be busy settling in to a new job, getting the house ready etc, so it could be a while.

So all in all it's no biggie. All part of the Ex-pat life really. I've been travelling for ten years now. Been a blast. The best and worst time of life. I've seen so many things and met so many people. Lots of dreams have come through for me because of this life, there's been a few nightmares and truly desperate moments, I've seen things I'll never forget including some I desperately want to forget, but they made me a man, or at least the man I am now and I wouldn't change any of it, the best decision I ever made was to become an Irish nomad. I did good for a skinny kid from a ghetto on the northside of Dublin. But it's done, the draft Guinness is whispering my name and to top it off I get to walk away with the greatest most beautiful woman in the world. I'm very much at peace with what's happening, so no need to worry.

Whatever happens I'll still be around to nag you guys. Enough with the 3 Stooges ( Ingo was Curly right ? )and bring on the Marx Brothers - I have dibs on being Groucho !!! Just need time to get settled.

Of course I'll post some pics before I tear down the tank, it's become a stunner !

So that's all I'll say on that subject.

We will now return to your normal programming schedule.....




Some days you're the pigeon and some days you're the statue.

Remember that age and treachery will always triumph over youth and ability.
Post InfoPosted 28-Sep-2006 05:50Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Well Bensaf,

That sure is a major move there and I wish you all the best for it. As you can see, your latest entry completely stalled the entries to this thread as we are all speachless. I am sure all of us sit around wondering how long it will take you to get your internet connection up and running wherever you will move to. Screw the tanks that you may or may not build, as long as we can talk to you

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 29-Sep-2006 10:21Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Weekly Tank Update - Week 53

This week has seen no changes in the tank, except more growth. I was considering to trim the Star Grass and Hygro this weekend, but then got too lazy. So, next weekend I will have to trim them for sure.

With the new filter in place now for a few weeks I don't see much of a change in the tank yet. It may be a little cleaner on the bottom when I vacuum, but green hair algae is still growing on the Anubias and wood in particular.

Here is a shot of the tank from last weekend:

Attached Image:

Last Weekend



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Post InfoPosted 01-Oct-2006 15:14Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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And here is this weekend. As you can see, in particular the Hygro group causes quite some shading at the front of the tank. I think rather sooner than later I have to bite the bullet and re-arrange the hardscape so I can form a more scape like tank (rather than a mess as it is right now).

Attached Image:

Now



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Post InfoPosted 01-Oct-2006 15:16Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Already on to the last photo of this session.

Can someone say "well fed" ???

I don't think my Otos are compaining too much about the algae in the tank

Attached Image:

My Tummy Hurts



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Post InfoPosted 01-Oct-2006 15:18Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
TW
 
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I think your oto is very happy & thanks you for very much for his/her dinner. If this is your plumpest, if your theory is right, it should be a girl - right?

Cheers
TW
Post InfoPosted 02-Oct-2006 15:19Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Yeah, from the shape of the belly I would assume that this one is a female. I have 6 otos in this tank and only some of them are this fat. But all have the same food source, a tank full of algae .

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 02-Oct-2006 16:24Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Wingsdlc
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LF,

You only have 6 Otos in your 125? I am running 10 in my 40G. You could probably add some more if you wanted to.

What are others Oto to Gallon ratio?

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Post InfoPosted 02-Oct-2006 18:49Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
mattyboombatty
 
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I have 4 in my 50. I'd like to get a couple more though. If I had an algae supply like LF(no offense ) I'd have 20 in there. Couldn't hurt at least.



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Post InfoPosted 02-Oct-2006 19:05Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
goldfishgeek
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Hello LF

(Hello Bensaf! good luck with the move - was worried there for a bit, I have a six gallon tank that was inspired by your desktop tank - the little one?)

sorry LF, back on topic, your ottos made me laugh! I have started buying new gravel for the 35G, and will start the big scary re do in two weeks time.

I'll have to reread some of your log.

I can't believe its been a year. amazing.

GFG

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Post InfoPosted 02-Oct-2006 19:16Profile Homepage Yahoo PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Thanks Wings, Matty, and GFG

Well, more Otos is always a nice thing, but more fish is more poop. The 6 in my 40G have quite some significant output there, as I could always nicely see on the top of my Anubias leaves .

Honestly, I think at this stage of the tank they are more decoration than anything else.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 02-Oct-2006 19:45Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Wingsdlc
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I see your point for not adding any new fish in right now.

Half of my fish load are Otos (10) while the other half are med sized Brillian Rasboras (8).

When I start thinking about our tanks in general it really amazes me that some of use have little to no problems while others are cursed as we are all running very similar systems. The only major differences I can really think of is Plant choise and fish load. Maybe tetra and I got off easy be cause we worship the wisteria.

Any new thoughts on a Ingo redo?



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Post InfoPosted 05-Oct-2006 14:12Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
SheKoi
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this thread still going?!1

tank still looks great littlefish, just going to spend the next 3 days reading all whats been going on

www.blooming-brilliant.co.uk
Post InfoPosted 05-Oct-2006 16:35Profile Homepage MSN PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Karl,

How have you been? Long time no see. Was that all because of the early English exit from the world championship

Anyway, yeah - the log is still going, although I have to say that the entries are more sporadic these days. People must be sick and tired of hearing my complaints over and over again .

Talk to you later, have to work now,

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 05-Oct-2006 18:26Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
mattyboombatty
 
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The only thing I'm tired of is lack of entries. I hate when this site dies down like this.

*twiddles thumbs*



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Post InfoPosted 05-Oct-2006 21:54Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
NowherMan6
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We haven't seen Mr. and Mrs Apisto in a very long time.

Nor have we seen the Pearls! Have they ever shown any signs of coupling off or breeding? How goes the espei management?

I haven't been posting much either. Busy with work AND life so that doesn't leave me much time. Trying to find the time to set up my own new tank, but that got put on hold because we may be getting the apartment painted... and I'm sure there's NOTHING in the world like trying to move a 700lb. tank away from a wall and keeping it properly protected so it doesn't get paint chips and fumes in it You can see my frustration with the project.

Just so I'm thinking of this right, LF, you have in the tank now:

espei
dwarf neon rainbows
pearls - 2
apistos - 2
and otos, correct?


Back in the saddle!
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LITTLE_FISH
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The only thing I'm tired of is lack of entries. I hate when this site dies down like this
Tell me all about it, it ruins my average posts per day.

NowherMan6 - Sorry to hear about your crazy work schedule, but why should you be better off than me

Yeah, you got that right, these are the fish in my tank. I have never seen the Pearls showing any signs of interest in breeding. One reason why I held off with the second filter for so long was that I hoped he would build a bubble nest on the right tank side where the surface current was really weak, but nothing happened. Now I have loads of current and I assume that even if he tried to build a nest it would float away.

The Espei population seems stable now, maybe one or two fish came in since the last trade with the LFS. I am sure the Apistos and Rainbows have something to do with it.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 06-Oct-2006 18:35Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
dmarkham0117
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LF,

I used to have a lot of hair algae to say the least in my 42 hex. I even had it growing on the substrate. I tried several kinds of fish and the japonica shrimp that were supposed to be good at grazing on the hair algae, but they just couldn't keep up. Then I read about the American Flag Fish (Jordanella floridae). My LFS was able to order some for me and I bought one male and two females. Within 5 minutes of releasing these fish into my tank they began to feed voraciously on the hair algae and within 3 days there wasn't a strand of hair algae to be seen! I haven't had a problem with it since that time as I think the algae eating livestock I have more than keeps up with the pace now. I will say that I had to move them out of the tank into another one because they would nip at the fins of my Angels, but it was well worth it until there job was done!

Just a thought that I haven't read about anyone trying on here.

Dan
Post InfoPosted 08-Oct-2006 05:38Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Dan,

Thanks for the tip . I have thought about these fish, but turned them down rather quickly. Mainly for the reason you mentioned, being rather aggressive fish. Also, they for sure would go after my smaller espei.

Weekly Tank Update - Week 54

Not much has happened to the tank this week, just feeding and ferting (new Ingo word ). The maintenance this weekend saw the trimming of the hygro and the star grass, plus the repositioning and trimming of a few stems of Alternanthera.

Here is the tank last weekend:

Attached Image:

Last Weekend



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Post InfoPosted 08-Oct-2006 11:34Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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By this weekend, the star grass and the hygro had grown even more, so did the duck weed on the surface. I guess my plant food is working out pretty good (including the new tropica micros - on a much reduced dosage from the TMG, 20ml x 3 vs. 50ml x 3).

Here is the tank before trimming, almost all lower parts are shaded all the way to the front:

Attached Image:

Before Trimming



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And here is the tank after the trimming. Note the now larger group of Alternanthera towards the right. I used to have the individual stems more dispersed throughout the tank:

Attached Image:

Now



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Last shot for now, a closer look at the center area. A little off to the right, in front of the star grass, sits a larger Crypt Wendtii Red. This plant, for unknown reasons, melted pretty bad during the last week. Only some of the smaller leaves are still there. I don't think it got shaded too much and I have no explanation for why this happened.

Attached Image:

Where is the Wendtii?



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goldfishgeek
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Just going to have a moment of green with envy induced meaness.

My crypts don't melt!!!!! *evil laugh* and I have moved them and washed them and every thing!

of course all my other plants die or fall apart, as well as some fish



GFGx

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That is funny GFG

I guess you like the rest of the tank then . Well, it is working its way back up to having more BBA, I can see the first signs on the wood again.

Ingo


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NowherMan6
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Wow, can't believe I missed this big change

Looks good LF. I'm very impressed with that mass of NL fern you have. It's a pretty fast grower I've found, and grows pretty large too (starting to outgrow my nano... ... not really, but still getting big)

Anyway, I think it's BEGGING to climb the ladder of that big DW piece. As it is it seems to be just forming a flat mat across the lower section - why not, at some point, break it up a bit and make it more dynamic? Tie some bunches up the length of the branch a little, similar to the way you've used the Bolbitus in your 40G. This would also work on the right side piece of DW.

Just throwing it out there, as usual


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Good idea NowherMan6,

I have been thinking about that, but then decided to hold off until I know what to do about the big log, and with it the rest of the tank, in the first place. I think my current setup does not permit me to move forward and a change is needed, at least a change to the driftwood.

But I have neither time nor courage to do this right now

The NL fern looks so flat because there is quite some current in that area that pushes the leaves horizontally to the left.

Ingo


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I was going to comment on your fern too. It sure looks like it has grown a ton. I hope to get my hands on one either with our next plant order at work or at the auction I am going to next weekend.

I also like the idea of having the fern grow up the DW but I understand you wanting to wait to do it unitl you have things figured out.

Quite the trim job too! You can see the plants on the bottem now! Before it just looked back.

How is the chain sword doing?

Has work been a bear latly? Is tetra still alive? Maybe he just doesn't like his tank with the 4 foot light....

55G Planted tank thread
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Post InfoPosted 13-Oct-2006 14:23Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
TW
 
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Maybe he just doesn't like his tank with the 4 foot light....
Maybe that's it. I asked to see a picture of the tank with the new light, and he just plain disappeared

Cheers
TW
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I think the light is just a coincidence. I doubt that it messed up his tank soooo quickly, actually, I think that it probably made everything grow even better.

About the chain sword - what chain sword? I have maybe 3 to 5 plants left, spread out throughout the tank. I find that in all of my tanks, high and low tech, chain swords do not like to be moved. Once established and later moved they all did really poorly. I don't know why though, because all did really well when moved into the respective tanks.

Work is mad, but I am getting used to it a little better.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 13-Oct-2006 16:10Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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I find that chain swords do very well with being moved if it also involves a bit of thinning out so they get more light. Usually I pull them all up, take out the largest half and then replant the smaller half. Then in a month or two I have to do it again. I usually make a few bucks off of it though. In fact I may need to do that today.....I'm snowed in so there's not much else I can do. Good ol' Buffalo, Lake effect snow in October.



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Post InfoPosted 13-Oct-2006 17:08Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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Yeah,

It was pretty cold down here this morning as well, but certainly no snow yet. Glad we got the Apistos shipped earlier this year.

My tenellus was behaving like yours in the beginning as well, maybe it takes a few moves before it has enough of it. I have no other explanation for it, as the tank conditions in my various tanks have not changed while tenellus growth got worse with each move.

Ingo


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About the chain sword - what chain sword?
I thought that chain swords were fairly easy to keep. But I guess with any thing they probably do better for some people than others.

ood ol' Buffalo, Lake effect snow in October.
We got snow here but not snowed in at all. Don't really want to go outside so I guess you could call it snowed in. It did look pretty outside yesterday with the snow stuck to the colored up trees.

BTW: Come See!


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Post InfoPosted 13-Oct-2006 17:47Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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But I guess with any thing they probably do better for some people than others
I do not know if it is the people that make the difference, as I grew it very successful in my tanks. But no longer

Anyway, I got up extra early this morning to upload, trim, and resize my pictures for this week's update (late, I know, but have been busy yesterday), but once completed the site was down, at least I could not post anything anymore

So, it will have to wait until tonight then, nothing major happened anyway

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 16-Oct-2006 13:30Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Better late than never -

Weekly Tank Update - Week 55

Nothing happened to the tank this week, besides feeding and fetilizing. I think the increased water flow help, at least my duckweed grows by its name, weed

Here is the tank this weekend:

Attached Image:

Now



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LITTLE_FISH
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Now on to some more or less detailed shots, in random order.

Here is a closeup of the Alternanthera group. Hard to believe that all these plant are from one small accidental plant that I got when the tank was initially set up:

Attached Image:

Alternanthera



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LITTLE_FISH
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And here is a closeup showing my diffusing style, in case you forgot. First I have the diffuser hack the CO2 bubbles in small pieces, then the above sitting powerhead redirects them vertically (and makes the bubbles even smaller).

I have not cleaned the diffuser in at least 2 months except for dripping Excel on top of it during the water change.

Ups- have to read a story now, will continue in about 30min.

Attached Image:

Hack Em



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Nice, the wife will be reading to them, so on with the entries:

Here is a closer look at the Narrow Leaf Java Fern. The main focus though is not intended to be the fern, as you will be able to see better in the next shot.

Attached Image:

NL Java Fern



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Post InfoPosted 17-Oct-2006 01:41Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
This one is specially for Matty, as he toys with the idea of putting $40++ of plants in a darker spot of his tank. Nana Petites will grow well there, but noone can see them in the pictures. When I hole the camera real close and extremely overexpose the image then one can see that I have 5 petites lined up in front of the fern. Actually, a waste in my tank:

Attached Image:

Nana Petite



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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
Here is one group of my Pearl Grass, I guess it will need some trimming soon. This one is in the left front corner of the tank.

Attached Image:

Pearl Grass



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And here are my 5 Rainbows. After I had to put one of the original 6 down a few weeks back it seems like nobody else is getting sick. I remember that I lost my 3 females within weeks of each other with similar symptoms.

Attached Image:

Rainbows



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LITTLE_FISH
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With all this picture taking, my male Apisto did not want to be left out. He paraded along the tank front for me and gave me plenty of options to capture a shot of him:

Attached Image:

Apisto



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LITTLE_FISH
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But after about 10 shots that I took he got bored and started to yawn.

Sometimes he does that, I assume to keep his mouth flexible so he can eat huge snails


Attached Image:

Tired?



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And just to prove that I am having my own Wisteria Creepery in my tank (what is going on tetratech, did you break your hands and can't type?), here is one of my two Wisteria patches:

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Wisteria



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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
Look At The Previous Page For Way More Pictures

And the last two shots are in Matty style, aka crazy angles. I usually don't see my tank in this perspective, but it shows the duck weed on the surface. This was after I removed about 50%.


Attached Image:

Duck Weed



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And an even weirder shot is this one, again showing the duck weed. Don't worry, what seems like loads of algae on the back is just a reflection of the the duck weed on the surface.

That's it,

Have Fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Crazy Shot



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Nice pic of your apisto yawning LF. I also like the upward angles on your tank. I can imagine you laying on the floor taking pics . I have to say the larger group of alternanthera is stunning. That should have happened much sooner. Larger groups of plants seem to make a better impact on the viewer IMO. The star grass needs to pop back up a bit, and then the tank will look very nice I think.

I happened to notice the petite nana in the first pic, but I can see why you would say they are pointless there. You don't need them there. That's a very nice little portion in your tank with the NL fern. However, I do need something in that spot in my tank. Otherwise it's an eyesore. Mesh and pvc don't lend themselves to a natural planted tank, like most people would think. I'm just trying to come up with the best possible solution as I can see the glosso doesn't cut the cake....or cheese(maybe that's what those bubbles are ). I need something that isn't large(won't shade out the glosso below it on the substrate which gets plenty of light), grows in lower light, will attach itself to mesh, and doesn't need substrate. Any other ideas?



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see the glosso doesn't cut the cake....or cheese


Thanks Matty for the input (sparse these days, my tank must be too boring for words)

Yeah, I really way lying on the floor when taking the upwards shots

Also, I agree, the Alternanthera group has never been prettier.

And with regards to your "dark spot", I feel your pain. Moss is no good as it would creep out of control. Anubias Nana Petite cost $$$. How about narrow leaf java fern, grows slow enough to be maintainable?

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 17-Oct-2006 18:18Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
TW
 
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Scrolled back over an earlier page of pics, where you can only see a hint of your alternanthera. I'm so glad you've given it room to shine. I also like that we can see beyond the plants to the back of the tank. I used to think that all of the back wall of a tank had to be covered in tall stems, but I like this look, where in places you can see the black beyond. More interesting & gives more depth. Hard to maintain that though, as some of these darn stems grow so fast. Always needing trimming to keep them the right height.

Does the floating duckweed block your light & cause shading. I don't think I'd dare try it in my low light tanks, but I guess you guys with better lights, have the wpg to spare?

Cheers
TW
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Does the floating duckweed block your light & cause shading
Yes, it does. I currently run an experiment on my 29G with 65W and almost the entire surface covered with duckweed, we will see how that goes. On a positive side, it is a major nitrate sucker upper , as much as I know.

Robyn, thanks also for the overall comments on the tank, and I agree with all of your points. Just last night I looked at the Alternanthera group and thought about its time limited beauty. In not too long of a future I will have to trim that group and it will never look the same again.

Ingo


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LITTLE_FISH
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Ok,

So I didn't want to make a big deal out of this, but I jst cannot resist. I ordered a few more plants:

- 3 Bunches of Ludwigia peruensis
- 6 Pots of Tenellus
- 3 Crypt Wendtii Green

All entities arrived, although the Wendtiis are way more than 3, but little plants for that. Here is the order:

Attached Image:

Plant Order



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As I will not really plant anything today, I cleaned and "parked" the plants for the time being.

Here are all the individual peruensis stems planted in the 125G:

Attached Image:

All Peruensis



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One thing that this last shot made ovbious is that they appear from the distance very similar to the Alternanthera.

In a closer shot of the main planted group one can appreciate them more:

Attached Image:

Peruensis I



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And here is another look at the peruensis that I lined up in front of the tank, as I said - just parking them for the time being.

Are these the ones that Matty has in his 50? I forgot.

Attached Image:

Peruensis II



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LITTLE_FISH
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The other plants are parked in the 20G, I didn't even remove the Tenellus from the pots. I guess that is all right, right?

The Crypts are most likely to stay in this tank, but for sure not in that spot. I ordered them because I felt like making the order worthwhile.

Attached Image:

Park Em



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LITTLE_FISH
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The reason why I ordered potted Tenellus was because the explanation made it appear as if they were grown submersed, and the loose ones where grown emersed.

But the bud endings on some of them make me believe that these were grown emersed as well.

For the "I Spy" fans, there is a baby platy in this picture as well

Attached Image:

Emersed?



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Now,

"What does that all mean?" is probably a question that you all ask yourselves (or not).

Anyway, if I tell you it has to do with me taking Friday off and use it on this tank, I assume you know what it means

So, if you have any suggestions, you have about a day and a half to let me know about them.

Ingo


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Well, good luck with your Ingo tank re-do. Is it a major or a minor redo. Anyway, I'm nowhere near enough of a scaper to make useful suggestions - but I hope you have fun.

Have fun with your new plants, they look very nice.

I'm at work, so this is a very quick visit. With only time for a quick glance, I didn't spot your baby platy - only what I thought might have been a snail or two. I will play "I Spy" later when not at work (and won't cheat by looking at any other's answer first)

Cheers
TW
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The potted chain swords are definitely emersed grown. They'll do fine anyways.

The ludwigia peruensis aka peruvian ludwigia is usually the false name ludwigia glandulosa is sold under. That is what I've gathered from my searching around. Yours have 2 leaves per node though, and every picture of ludwigia glandulosa I've seen only has one leaf per node. Otherwise yours looks very similar to mine when I bought it, green on top red underneath, real thick stems. If it ends up changing forms from emersed to submersed and only has one leaf per node and turns bright red(top and bottom), you know what you have.

BTW I can't find the platy

Good luck with the makeover



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Thanks for the input and Matty - thanks for the ludwigia glandulosa info.

Yeah, I think I should explain why I am willing to do another major overhaul again. During the last few months I mentioned quite a few time the fact that I am not too happy with the location of the wood and that relocating it would mean that it a) has to be removed first and b) that it has to be cut in managable pieces. Now that I have the 40G, which has its hardscape pretty much in place, I can see how rather easy it is to do small changes to enhance the scape. I would like to lay out this tank so that following changes are managable, but to get to that point a more permanent arrangement of hardscape has to happen first. And unfortunately this means that I have to pretty much remove most of the plants and excisting scape first anyway

Ingo


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That's the LF we know!

Hardscape on the left is needed, and go heavy on the hardscape throughout the tank if you can. Plants will grow in around it and you may not notice a bunch of it, but it's important that it's there to give some structure.

The tenellus looks less emersed than when I first got mine - many of the leaves are short and flat as they should be, but there are also some tall stringy ones with the seed pods, and that's a sign of emersed growth. It'll be a little messy in the first few weeks, but they'll shed quickly enough.


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http://www.plantedtank.net/forums/photo-album/36681-75-gallon-gallery-56k-warning.html

This tank is pretty impressive. At lest it is to me. The thing I wanted to point out about it the amount of DW in it. Once the tank is planted most of the DW is gone.

My only sugestion would be to keep the plants low in the front and work your way up in the back. I think this makes the tank look much deeper than it is. Right now your NL fern is just too huge up front.

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Thanks guys for the input

Wings - why do you have to show me this picture and make the stakes so high? . I cannot live up to this by a long shot.

The main concern is to move and cut the driftwood, although I don't have a clear vision on what to put where. Nevertheless, I feel more confident now than ever before as I think my 40G setup worked out pretty well (and don't you guys dare to tell me otherwise now ).

Ingo


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To go along with what I previously said, LF, I would check out AF for driftwood options, they have probably the best stock I know of and it's not too pricey. Avoid blocky pieces, look for branchy pieces with long bits sticking out. You can also use smaller pieces together to look like one piece. I would suggest not skimping, as Wings has said.


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Interesting

I was actually not planning to add new wood to the tank and have not even considered this option.

Instead, I plannned on cutting up my big piece and use the branches individually. This should eliminate that big trunk in the front.

Ingo


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That will work as well, but just in case you pre-plan and find you may want more to work with, give AF atry, they've had some very nice pieces.

How will you make sure the branhces dont float?


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If I get new wood from AF then the color etc will not match (see the critics that I got a while back for my 20 QT). So I would need all new pieces.

The existing wood is in there now at least 6 months, I hope it will stay down by itself. If not, some rocks will have to be either used as weights or I will squeeze some wood between 2 rocks.

Ingo


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So....hmmmm.....where was the platy?



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Forgot all about the platy fry

BTW, currently there are maybe around 8 fry in the tank. And here is the one that was the subject of "I Spy":

Attached Image:

See It?



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And here is a super zoom closeup of the fry, in case you thought I sell you a small leaf in its place:

Attached Image:

Closer



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I can't beleive you guys didn't see that thing! It is only bright white(or yellowish) and happened to be right in the middle!

LF,

Good luck with the redo today! Rock it out my Friend!/:'

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The big tank is looking pretty good. Good luck with your fish day.

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Thanks guys,

Just a very quick update:

I am almost done, but I have to take a family break before I can finish.

So far: belh

Ingo


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Well,

All done for today, took me only overall 8 hours,

Here are the steps:

First, the tank before the start, this morning:

Attached Image:

Tank Before Change



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Next, I removed all the plants and placed them in tubberware containers, one of which I even quipped with a heater. The water was from the tab, but I used prime.

Then the wood was removed.

Here is the tank right after the messy removal:

Attached Image:

All Nekkid



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The I performed a water change and vacuumed almost the entire substrate. Only one corner was left out as the water level was falling too low already.

Here is the tank after a refill:

Attached Image:

Water Changed



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Once I started working on removing the plants I could for the first time in quite a while account for all of my Otos. After the water change I tried to find them all but was one short. I checked the tank over and over again, but could not find it. I ran to the laundry room (where the sink is with the wood and the python) and sure enough, in the empty and barely wet sink was the missing Oto , still alive. It must have been in there at least an hour and a half as it must have traveled on the wood.

I scooped the Oto out with my hand and immediately returned it to the tank. He wiggled in my hand, then swam off and was still fine an hour later. Ever since the tank is replanted again I cannot see the Otos anyway.

Here is the escaper after release:

Attached Image:

Oto Runaway



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After cleaning the back and one side panel I cut the driftwood into individual branches and scrubbed them all off. The it was time to place them into the tank (they sink by now) to outline the main group.

Here is the first, and almost last attempt:

Attached Image:

Branches Outline Main Group



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After extending the main group a little it was time to place the plants back into the tank. First, I added the ones that surround the main group.

In this stage you can see the main layout of the new tank very well. Once I was finished planting it wasn't all that clear anymore. But the point of this change was to allow me future updates without having to rip the tank apart again.

So keep that in mind, this is the basic setup now:

Attached Image:

Basic Setup



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Then it was time to add the remainder of the plants, without adding the ones back in that I don't like anymore I(don't fit into the layout).

As such, I am short on plants right now

Anyway, here is the tank after I finished, what do you think?

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

All Done



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Ingo,

The new layout looks very nice. It kind of feels like an island almost. Very neat effect. Plus you can really spot the fish!

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EditedEdited by mattyboombatty
I found the platy...I found it!!

Ooo...I like it. Looks like it could be a tropical island there in the middle, especially if the wisteria were to grow around the main groupind to form the sea. Lots of different scapes could form around the central group though. Very diverse, very attractive, I like it.

EDIT: well I second rick I guess.

Oh, I can't tell from the pic but did you find a more suitable place for the nana petite?



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Nice work LF! I really like the Anubias work! The nana petite (bottem left in front of the DW?)

Will get back with you more later! I have a marching band show/fish auction/Chicago marithon to watch this weekend....

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Thanks guys for the input

Yeah, it looks like an island, and I am sure that some plants will change over time. Most important to me was to create a more "styles" overall layout and, based on your comments, I guess that worked out.

The Nana Petites are spread out throughout the main group border from left to the middle. I will take some detail shots of the tank today and I will make sure to include them.

The tank is really short on plants and I may have to add the wisteria from the 20G to fill it up a little.

Oh - interesting side note: I assume that the Espei have made a packt when the tank was empty. Somewhere in the line "if we survive this then we have to strenghten the group". As soon as the main group border was in with the Anubias they went at the reporroduction ritual like mad. The were hushing under the anubias leaves even while I was planting the wisteria right next to them .

The Apistos seem to have been the ones mostly stressed by the replant, the male was hiding for the rest of the day.

Ingo


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Wow, what a change. Looks very nice LF. I like your anubias & nana petites. It's right, it does have the feel of an island & now you can have separate groupings, on both sides.

Good job with the make-over

Cheers
TW
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EditedEdited by FRANK
Hi Ingo,
The overhaul looks great!
I like this placement of the driftwood with some of it
a little further into the back of the tank. The placement
along with the use of the ground cover, adds depth to
the tank and enforces the "island" concept.
I'm curious to see what it will mature into.
With the Espei's - in many cases a large water change
will prompt the spawning urge.
It looks like you put in a solid days work. The thing that
never ceases to amaze me is how elaborate a root system
our plants develop over sometimes, a very short time.
When they do it in my flourite, I always have my Vortex,
diatom filter, primed and ready to run.

What did you do with the plants you were no longer
interested in?

Frank

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Post InfoPosted 22-Oct-2006 17:23Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Thanks Robyn and Frank, your input is very welcome

Here is a weekly tank update, although there should not be much of a secret on what I have to tell, but it is a tradition

Weekly Tank Update - Week 56

Well, it was time for another major tank overhaul, Ingo Style. I know I am risking all kinds of things with this, but I had to get some more favorable structure into the tank upon which I can build future updates.

I am currently a little short on plants and I hope that this is not coming back to haunt me (except on Halloween, ).

To stir things up a little, I will start with some details. Here is the left side of the tank, the one that got the really short end of the stick. I grouped here all my crypts, except my red wendtiis, on the left back and side. On the right side, bordering the island, is a group of taller Pearl Grass, in between the new tenellus and some wisteria from the 20G:

Attached Image:

Left Side



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Here is the right border of the island. It has some of the reddish lugwigia still hidden in the back, then some NL Java Fern on the wood, then some red Wendtiis in front of it, and some Anubias in front of them. To the right is Wisteria only, I hope tetratech will not call me a copy cat

Attached Image:

Right Side



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Here is a look into the island, without showing all of the borders. I know it is a little on the red side , but that is ok.

You may notice that I use the Star Grass as a border between the red Ludwigia / Alternanthera and the Anubias. I discarded most of the star grass, it is not worth the helluffa maintenance and dying of lower parts. I will try to keep it short, even if it means at least bi-weekly trimming:

Attached Image:

Main Part Of Island



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Here is a look at the front border of the island, containing the 5 nana petites. Can you find them?

The Anubias in general received a major trimming, all kinds of algae infested leaves were cut off, as were old and leaveless parts of rhizomes.

Attached Image:

Anubias Row Coast



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The most worrisome part of the replant (besides the "lost" Oto) was the Apisto pair. They both seemed really scared and hid behind the heaters and filter intakes

By now, almost all seemed fine again, although the female doesn't come out much. The reason may be some egg laying though, as she was defending the right side of the main group with the wood.

Here is the male again:

Attached Image:

Male Apisto Viejita II



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Last but not least, here is a full tank shot from this morning. Compared to the last full shot from Friday there are a few more plant on the left tank side, collected from the 20.

Please make sure to also check on my 20, 29, and 40 logs as all have new entries and in particular the 20 and the 29 have changes a little.

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Full Tank Shot - Today



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Well,

There seems to be something going on in the breeding department with the Apistos (while the male in the 40 is doing really bad and may die).

The female has found a spot in the wood on the right hand side of the island and is almost never coming out. If she does then only in the immediate are of the wood.

Just now, the group of Rainbows came pretty close, and here is the male's response:

Attached Image:

Go Away



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Then the female Pearl joined that group, but the male Apisto even challenged her, although she is for sure number two in the tank (after the male Pearl).

Here he shows her the way as well.

That's it, we will see.

Ingo

Attached Image:

And you better leave as well



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LF,

Very

I like the structure of the middle-right section. Defintetly the right direction. I can see the island thing, I can also see moving more in that direction if you see fit, using glosso or HC or something to make a "sea" around the left side.

Well done, and nice little story about the oto


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Thanks NowherMan6,

I wish I could have the red plants on the island grow some more and the freeze the entire island and just keep on working on the surrounding "sea".

Unfortunately, that is only a dream as all will grow eventually out of shape and then it will be time for a redo . But I think I can handle the island for quite a while, with all kinds of options.

The one thing I am considering is to replace the Star Grass border with maybe didiplis diandra, which I believe is not as messy as the star grass and also grows on stronger stems. The star grass is blowing slightly sidewards.

About Glosso or HC, I may try first to surround the island with wisteria, in good old tetratech fashion . If the tenellus ever settles then I may use any runners to "refresh" the culture in the 29.

Ingo


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EditedEdited by tetratech
Well I'm sneaking this one out

I like the makeover much better as you said it's more "styled". I think it's more managable and something you could have fun fine-tuning as you go along. It's very tough to create a "bensaf-like" tank in a 125g without being "semi-retired"

About the didiplis diandra:
I had this plant way back when I purchased my aromatica and blyxa. It's the only plant that didn't make it. It's very fragile and light sensitive. It's also going to be a big pain when trimming. You know Blyxa might work in that spot and is not a fast grower.

About the Wisteria:
Go ahead knock yourself, but be prepared to see Jersey vs New York wisteria comparisons. Since I've seen about 5 FP tanks with creeping wisteria, maybe the Mods will give me a special contributor award.

Ingo Style Makeover in regards to Algae:
Most important if you haven't done so aready, reduce your lighting cylce to 7.5 to 8 hours tops and gradually increase as the tank matures and is stable. Same goes for ferts reduce to lower EI range and increase with mass.

I think by this weekend I'll be back to some tank updates and responses to Matty and other threads.

My Scapes
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NowherMan6
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Most important if you haven't done so aready, reduce your lighting cylce to 7.5 to 8 hours tops and gradually increase as the tank matures and is stable. Same goes for ferts reduce to lower EI range and increase with mass.



Shouldn't that go without saying at this point?!?


Back in the saddle!
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Shouldn't that go without saying at this point?!?
We can only hope!



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Well,

First of all, glad to have been able to get a response from tetratech, just for that the makeover was already worthwhile. If I only could get one from Bensaf as well, although he hasn't been on in a few days now

Thanks tetratech, I forgot about the issues with the diandra. I don't think the Blyxa would work as it seems to take forever until it even reaches any height (meaning, it is too short and would not even be seen. The plants I need there would have to be about 5 to 6 inches tall (above the substrate).

Next:
Shouldn't that go without saying at this point?!?
Actually, I did reduce the ferts a little, but not the light. I begin to have my doubts about my philosophy regarding light duration and intensity. I maintain my 10h and actually increased the "high light" about a week back to 3.5 hours.

Ingo


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I begin to have my doubts about my philosophy regarding light duration and intensity.
and your philospohy would be???

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Post InfoPosted 23-Oct-2006 20:18Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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and your philospohy would be?
Well, I stated that I have doubts about my philospohy, which is in sink with you guys.

The "new" thoughts are not well formed (yet), but there is of course the notion that the plants actually do not get enough lights to perform at their best. 1.5wpg is not quite much for almost all day (except the one hour I used to beef up the lighting).

Ingo


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The new structure is looking good & it seems the change may have prompted your apistos to mate. That should be very interesting, although any fry would probably struggle to survive in the community tank with the plant mass lower. But then, I'm talking about my tanks - where my adults are all notorious fry eaters. You have had success with platy & espei - so fingers crossed for you.

Cheers
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Thanks Robyn,

Nah, there will be no fry, not even my Espei fry has a chance now, and they are going at it like mad all the time .

There are simply enough fish in the tank to extremely limit the chances of any fry not to be detected.

As a side note, and unrelated to the upcoming loss of an Apisto in the 40G, this tank is seeing its first Espei death rather sooner than later. Given the signs on the fish (fading coloration and less transparency in the fins, combined with holding a static position in the water column rather than swimming all over the place) makes me strongly believe it is a case of old age. It for sure, by its size, is one of my original batch purchased over a year ago, which then was already in mating age. Nothing to worry about, just the way of life.

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Well,

Given that the Apisto in the 40G is gone and given that I placed an image of it in that log, I thought I owe you an image from the Espei mentioned in the last thread.

Here you see the "old" Espei, and I am rather certain that he/she is suffering from old age only (please tell me otherwise if you should identify an illness). I thought I owe this picture as it completes my Espei life cycle of images, from small fry over juveniles to adults and seniors.

As you can see, the body coloration is fading away, in particular in the front body section. Also, the fins are less clear and have mostly a whitish base color.

Ingo

Attached Image:

Old Espei



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Ingo: Good Job on your new tank overhaul i see how you have a lot more room for future development. I hope you're algae problem will be a lot less then in your previous layout. I cant wait to see how it will look in the next few months to come.

Cheers

Shawn
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Thanks Shawn, I appreciate the comment

Just like you said, I am also happy that this layout will allow me to change things from now on a little more slowly rather than having to perform 10 hour makeover sessions every few months. And like you, I am very curious as to what it will become in the next few months.

Thanks again,

Ingo


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hey there lf -

great work on the tank - i can't believe how much work you do on your tank!! i love watching it progress from stage to stage. i just did a big clean out, thinning out all my swords, and propogating some tiger lotus pups - not a bad sunday arvo at all.

hope you are well,

justin
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Thanks Justin

I appreciate your input and compliments, keep em coming

Anyway:

Weekly Tank Update - Week 57

The tank has been doig quite ok during this week, I was hoping not to see a major outbreak in algae (from the redo) and so far I have been lucky. The duck weed on top grew rather dense and needed some major thinning out as the two spray bars on each end concentrated the weed in the middle of the tank and that led to shading of the main group, not so good.

I have quite a few shots to show, so here is the first set, taken during the water change.

This is the diffuser at low tide, as you can see there is some algae on it. I have not cleaned it in months and the green part is the one where the diffuser never let out any bubbles (ever). My cleaning consists of dripping Excel on top of the plate (after drying it off with a tissue) when the water gets below the rim. That is all I do since months.

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Diffuser



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Here is a look at the main group from almost above, a little from the side. I cannot really get a straight down shot as I would have to make a hole in the ceeling of the room and take a shot from the first floor .

I am always surprised to see how bright blue the background of the tank actually is. It seems so much darker when there is water in the tank.

This reminds me, maybe I should play with the background for a few weeks.

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Low Tide Main Group



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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
Here is a look at most of the fish that are in the tank, almost all shots were taken during low tide. Usually, most fish are hiding in the plants during water change, but this weekend they were parading around.

Here are the Espei swimming along the island perimiter, supervised by the male Apisto:

Attached Image:

Espei School



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Here is the female Apisto, above the Wisteria. I assume her "fry" from last was either non-existent or had been eaten/abandoned/died.

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Female Apisto



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Just for completion of the Apisto pair, here is a shot of the male, taken a few hours after the water change. Besides showing him, I would like to point out the little bubbles in the water which are finely diffused CO2 bubbles. And that is on the other side of the tank from the diffuser.

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Male Apisto



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On to some other fish of the tank, here is a neon dwarf rainbow looking into the camera. I wonder if they wonder what it is that I am doing there. But I guess I give them too much credit

Anyway, it is very nice of him to give me this pose:

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Rainbow I



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And here are two of the rainbows, side by side. I would assume that the one with the larger hump is superior to the one in the back, right?

These fish (the rainbows) are the most active in the tank and are constantly busy chasing each other and showing off to each other.

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Rainbow II



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Here is my female Pearl Gourami. She holds the number two spot in the tank, at least when it comes to respect by the other fish. She is also less shy then her mate.

You can also see a few of the very healthy duck weed with roots on the left.

Attached Image:

Female Pearl



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And here is the king of the castle, the male Pearl. Nobody questions his authority and I am sure that his size alone gives him this respect. He is pretty much at least 3 times the lenght of most Espei. If the other fish would take a closer look when he behaves like a chicken (for example during water change) then they may change their mind and try to take dominance in their own hand .

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Male Pearl



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Enough about the fish in the tank, let's move on to the plants and the tank overall.

Here is a look at the Wisteria on the right after the water change. I was very tempted to thin it out already and use the clippings on the left side, but I rather wait one more week to have a fuller and healthier growth first.

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Wisteria Lawn



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And here is a look at the left side of the tank, the one that needs improvement/filling the most. I had no chance this week to go to the LFS and see if they have any Wisteria that I could plant there to fill in the empty gravel, maybe this week will be better.

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Left Side



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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
Many, Many More Pictures Are At The Bottom Of The Previous Page

As we all know, my tank is not known for pearling

But this weekend, after the water change, the tank pearled for hours. I know, I know, that is not something all that special, but even this has not happend in this tank for quite some time (many months).

Must be the Jersey water that has changed, .

Here is the Star Grass with its pearls:

Attached Image:

Pearling



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Here is a closer look at the tops of the Alternanthera Group. I had to trim away a few leaves that had a rim of BBA on them, still from the previous setup. In the past, most of these stems were spread out throughout the tank and actually did not receive the light (and respect) they need to shine:

Attached Image:

Alternanthera



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Right next to them (actually on the left),completing the center group of the island, are the Ludwigia peruensis's. So far, all stems still develop new leaves at the double per node.

Matty - If I understand the statement that you made about this plant a while back, then this should either change to single leaf per node or I actually have Ludwigia peruensis, which - by your statement - is not an aquatic plant.

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Ludwigia peruensis



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Ok,

The last 4 shots are of the full tank and/or the full island.

Here again is the tank from last week, shortly after the Little_Fish style makeover:

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Last Week



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And here is the tank this weekend.

The plants that I noticed as having grown the most are the Wisteria on the right, the Pearl Grass in the back left off the island, and the Star Grass ring on the island border.

What a surprise

Attached Image:

Week 57 - Now



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Here is a closer look just at the main island. I have to admit that this so far is my favorite setup of this tank and I hope that I will not regret the recent makeover and ligthing duration changes. So far, so good, I will keep my thumbs crossed.

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Island I



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And here is (already) the last shot, the main island in a more Matty-Style angle. Matty - I hope you are proud of yourself as you most certainly can take all the credit for any shot taken in these angles

I have to say that in this angle the island looks almost like a bird's nest

I am looking forward to the red plants growing just a little more to really fill in, in particular in height.

That's it for now,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Island - Matty Style



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LF,

Your tank looks pretty nice! I like the lay out with all the Anubias on the DW. That works really well for me. Things seem to be filling out quite well. The left side is a bit thin but you will soon have plenty of westeria to fill in the gaps.

Your rainbows are looking really good. I really love mine when I had them but for some reason they didn't do well. I am glad you have had pretty good luck with yours.



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[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
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Matty - If I understand the statement that you made about this plant a while back, then this should either change to single leaf per node or I actually have Ludwigia peruensis, which - by your statement - is not an aquatic plant.


If it doesn't end up with one leaf per node, then I have no idea what it is. The terrestrial plant I've seen in pics is very large and looks nothing like our aquatic plant. Sorry if I wasn't clear on that. I just meant to say that ludwigia peruensis is usually a false name for ludwigia glandulosa - but a name which is correct for a terrestrial plant.

Matty - I hope you are proud of yourself as you most certainly can take all the credit for any shot taken in these angles


I can't take credit, I didn't take the pic!. I'm glad I could make an impact on the angles you take your pics though. It's rare when people actually look at a tank from that dead on angle, so it's hard to get a feel for what your tank really looks like. Nice pics



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Thanks guys for the input and comments on tank and pictures.

Wings - none of my anubias are planted/tied on the driftwood, they are are stuck into the substrate. Of course I made sure the rhizome is above the substrate, so don't worry
The Mother Barteri is shooting out about 3 new leaves every 2 to 3 weeks, I hope that it doesn't grow too big too soon.

Matty - Of course you can take credit, you made me do it In the same way, NowherMan6 can take credit for my pictures as he was my lens consultant

Ingo


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Hah,

I am glad that I am able to post the following picture. As you may know, one Oto went MIA during last weekend's makeover and spent about at least 1.5h in an empty sink (where I placed the DW before cutting it).

So, given that I overall had 6 Otos before, and that I added him/her back in and he/she swam away, and that I have not been able to count them all any time since, here they are

Ingo

Attached Image:



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Man look at how clean that filter intake is. Makes me want to take mine out and bleach it or something.



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Your Alternanthera Group is just stunning & I'm really liking the island setup.

Great shot of your otos - pretty cool to get them altogether like that.

Cheers
TW
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Thanks, you two

Matty - This is the intake of the newer filter, the one I added rather recently (maybe 6 weeks back, I don't remember). I will try to get a shot of the other one which is more in line with yours, I guess

Robyn - Yeah, it took me two hours until I had all 6 of them herded onto the clean filter intake and heater

Ingo


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It's a classic case of "less is more" your no longer concerned with the confines of the tank where your putting a tall plant in the corner to cover the filter tubes, heater. etc. The Island looks even more impressive close-up. Nice tight groups, good constrast and manageable. If I had to nitpick (some things never change) it would be the anubias in the front is too lined up.

Are you considering changing the tubes, heater to all black so they fade into the background? With two filters on the tank that powerhead is also an unnecessary distraction IMO.

My Scapes
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I think tetratech went colorblind during his absence. LF's background is blue and his heaters are black.

I think LF is also using that powerhead to throw CO2 bubbles out to the other side of the tank and get more saturation.



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If I had to nitpick ...
Of course you have to

And it is always welcome, tetratech. Does that mean your bet is over and you won, or what? What are you getting out of this again? Ah yeah, a new tank

Anyway - Just a few posts earlier (or a few pages earlier) I mentioned that I may play with the background for a while. This means that any colors of heater and what not will have to wait. Also, yes - as Matty said - the powerhead is for the CO2. My way of dispersal in a 6 foot tank.

I have to see about the Anubias and a few other plants in the future, for now I am just glad that I got an environment that allows me to play with it without having to do a major overhaul.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 30-Oct-2006 20:33Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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I went to the LFS after work and bought 3 bunches of Wisteria, each having 3 stems and being about 6 to 10 inches long (they also has a pair of Apist Cacs "Double Red", but I resisted).

Once home, I proceeded to trim the stems. For one thing, I would like to keep the growth low, so 6 inches is not good. I made two sections out of each stem, the top and the next element down, which gave me 18 pieces overall. That was enough to cover the part of the left side that was still open.

Here is that area:

Attached Image:

New Wisteria



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Post InfoPosted 31-Oct-2006 03:00Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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This shot, of the female Apisto exploring if there is any food in the wistera, shows the very finely structured leaves of this growth:

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Apisto Looking For Food



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In comparison, here is my Wisteria from the right side of the tank. As you can see, most leaves are much broader that the new ones. Is that because of less light intensity? I need to consult the Wisteria Whipper

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Existing Wisteria On Right Tank Side



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Post InfoPosted 31-Oct-2006 03:04Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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And just for completion, here is the whole tank again. Now it is getting harder to avoid any glare in the pictures as the Wisteria is highl reflective of the tank light.

That's it for now,

Have Fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Full Tank



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Post InfoPosted 31-Oct-2006 03:05Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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As you can see, most leaves are much broader that the new ones. Is that because of less light intensity?

I think it has to do with light. More light the thinner the leaves. Less light the wider they get.

The wisteria in the last picture sure is bright. You should ask tetra how he does it!



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Post InfoPosted 31-Oct-2006 06:09Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
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Since you just bought it, I'd tend to think the thin leaves might be an emersed growth form(as most plants are grown emersed at farms to avoid the algae problem and to max light and growth using sunlight). I've also seen very large leaves come into the store too.

I guess that's why they call it hygro difformis. Very tough to tell what does what to this plant.



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Post InfoPosted 31-Oct-2006 06:28Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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Ah, I have never thought of the possibility that Wisteria is grown emersed. The stems seem way to fragile to support the plant weight out of the water. Not because they are so thin but because they seem to easily break when bent (at least the main stem of an upright growing plant).

Interesting, so much still to learn,

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 31-Oct-2006 14:16Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Weekly Tank Update - Week 58

The week was rather eventless, with the exception of the addition of more Wisteria on Monday.

So here is a quick look at some stuff

The morning before the water change, when the tank was still dark, I had a chance to take a peek as the light on 29G next to it goes on first. I know that plants close shop when they have enough light and at night as well, but I did not know that this applies to Wisteria as well:

Attached Image:

Wisteria Closed At Night



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Post InfoPosted 05-Nov-2006 23:47Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Here is the Pearl Grass before trimming. It has grown very nicely and I could use the extra plants for the 40G. It is now pretty much as tall as it was two weeks ago and I was able to harvest 9 smaller bunches:

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Pearl Grass



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Post InfoPosted 05-Nov-2006 23:49Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Also, for the very first time ever I really cleaned the filter (the bigger older one). I removed even the content of the individual trays and rinsed them in tank water as can be seen here.

Left is the bio layers and right the mech stuff:

Attached Image:

Cleaning Time



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Post InfoPosted 05-Nov-2006 23:50Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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And, for comparison, here is the tank two weeks ago after this setup had been created. As you can see, it is still quite empty:

Attached Image:

Two Weeks Ago



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Post InfoPosted 05-Nov-2006 23:51Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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And here is the tank earlier today. Not only does one notice the addition of the wisteria, but also some healthy growth in the Star Grass, Alternanthera, and Ludwigia groups. Also, the mother barteri developed quite a few new leaves.

Attached Image:

Tank Now



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Post InfoPosted 05-Nov-2006 23:53Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Nevertheless, not all is rosy. There is again some BBA, in particular on some leaves of the Alternanthera, Java Fern, and Anubias (just some leaves on that whole group). I am considering an Excel treatment.

Here is a closer look at the island:

Attached Image:

Island



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Post InfoPosted 05-Nov-2006 23:55Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Here is a closer look at the Wisteria group on the left side of the tank. The front section is the addition from last Monday. That should be rather obvious though as I never had this growth form in any of my tanks:

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Wisteria



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Post InfoPosted 05-Nov-2006 23:57Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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The Tenellus field behind it is still pretty messy, but I clearly see the development of submersed leaves and a few runners. I will give it some more time and then decide what to do with it in the first place. I am considering to replace the star grass with the crypts from the way left and make the whole area around the island wisteria (a la tetratech).

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Tenellus



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Post InfoPosted 06-Nov-2006 00:00Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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And here is an add-on:

I went to the LFS this afternoon and got some fishies (see 40G Log ). While I was there I picked up another 6 bunches of Wisteria. It wasn't in super shape, so I only could use the top most section of each stem (unlike last Monday when I divided each stem into two reusable pieces).

I planted then in front of the Island and now have to left almost connected to the right. Almost there

That's it, have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

New Wisteria From Today



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Post InfoPosted 06-Nov-2006 00:03Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Tank looks amazing Ingo. I was a bit surprised when you chose to steer clear of the Amano style. When you mentioned an "island" setup, I was expecting exactly what you have in the middle, but a clear cut line surrounding it of bare gravel. Hell, I would have bet sand would have made an appearance with this layour, at least in the foreground. But it looks killer either way. I'm thoroughly impressed!


Nice seeing you today, btw.
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Well thanks Mike,

I appreciate the compliment

Yeah, it was nice seeing you today at the LFS and I am glad it motivated you to peek into my logs (responsive that is, as I know you do it as a reader only anyway).

Yeah, anything more than I did in this current redo would basically have meant to start all over again as I would have had to get rid of my well bacterialized gravel. So, that's as good as it gets

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 06-Nov-2006 02:31Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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EditedEdited by mattyboombatty
Looks good LF, especially the tenellus(gosh I like that plant). It looks as if you're getting pretty good growth overall, should be fun to watch the tank continue to grow in. How's the ludwigia turning out? I'm really curious to see if that turns out to be the same as mine, or what else it could be if it doesn't.

I don't really have anything to nit-pick about. I like the setup, just needs time to fill in.

That's some nasty media BTW.



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Post InfoPosted 06-Nov-2006 03:14Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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EditedEdited by tetratech
I don't really have anything to nit-pick about.

Well I do! That last pic is really beautiful!

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So - where is the nitpicking, tetratech ? I know there is much that can be done better, but I had to start somewhere. I think that this setup will allow me to play around with much less ecological interference. Thanks for the compliment on the last shot.

Matty - You sure like tenellus, don't you . The ludwigia is still growing in the same style, aka two leaves per node. Maybe the grand master of plants, aka Bensaf, could take a look and let us know what he thinks . And yes, the media was really . Maybe in about two weeks I should have the other filter undergoing the same treatment.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 06-Nov-2006 14:31Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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LF,

If you are doing major up rooting fairly often then you are probobly releasing tons of junk from the gravel. This stuff ends up right in your filter. Therefore its probably a good idea to keep them cleaned more often.

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Post InfoPosted 06-Nov-2006 17:24Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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Ingo,

Looking at those nice pics, I forgot to ask. Are you seeing an abatement of your algae issues. I didn't see any "real" issues even from the closeup shot.

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Thanks guys for input and question,

Tetratech - right now I don't have a huge algae issue to report, but I see a ring of BBA around sicklish leaves on the Anubias and Alternanthera, and on the edges of leaves on the NL Fern, but they may have gotten damaged during the redo as well. Otherwise, only a little hair algae is growing on the glass, but not bad at all. I will try to give you an even closer look so one can see the problem

Wings - you, that's it, the redo will do that. But I decided to not mess with the filters right when I did the redo as I had upset the biofilter enough as it was. That's why I am doing it now, one filter at a time.

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Post InfoPosted 06-Nov-2006 17:48Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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that's it, the redo will do that. But I decided to not mess with the filters right when I did the redo as I had upset the biofilter enough as it was. That's why I am doing it now, one filter at a time.
I am with you.

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So,

Just to show you that not all is shiny shiny, here are two of the plants that have BBA problems (I couldn't get a good one of the Alternanthera).

Here is a leave of the Mother Barteri plant. Just a few leaves have algae:

Attached Image:

Anubias Barteri BBA



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Post InfoPosted 07-Nov-2006 01:53Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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And here is the Narrow Leaf Java Fern. Again, only a few leaves look like this, and I believe to identify that they are damages further down on the leaf.

That's it,

Ingo

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NL Java Fern BBA



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Post InfoPosted 07-Nov-2006 01:54Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
coop
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i had a BBA problem but my pearl gouramis ate it all.
i wonder why tours havnt eaten any of yours?
BTW my male pearl is almost full grown now, hes chest is a deap red orange, his dorsal & analfins stretch way past his tail fin and he has the most amazing turquise and olive green iridescences.
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coop,

I wasn't aware that Pearls are BBA eaters, I for sure haven't seen mine even touching it.

About 6 to 4 months ago, my male seemed well on the way to receive his orange underbelly, but now it seems more like he is moving backwards in the coloration department, except for the turquise and olive green iridescences on his finnage. It may have to do with the fact that there is 0 chance for breeding in this tank as the current would wash away any bubble nest. So he may think: "Why bother with all the color if I cannot use it anyway"

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 07-Nov-2006 14:33Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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I am loving your new island look. All is looking pretty slick. Like Matty, I'm a recent fan of Tenellus. Is there more that one form of tenellus? Mine look taller than yours, but so far they are all I've found. How tall would you say yours grow?

I agree with not cleaning out both filters at once. In fact, I have never done a 100% filter media clean. But for you, 100% cleaning of one filter = only a 50% clean, as you still have another filter to go. I would wait 3-4 weeks before you clean the 2nd filter, to allow the cleaned media to grow a new colony of bacteria.

Anyway, all is looking great

Cheers
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your male pearl has a beter body shape than mine, mine has a more bulldog face too.
id say its colour is becauase of the current as my tank has 2 smaller HOB filters at each end. one is soruonded by a lot of wisteria where as the other has a big clump of sggitaria stimulatus in front of it, this makes the water surface in the middle of the tank fairly still which allows him to build his nest(wich is then purposely destroyed by my male blue ram).
i guess it makes him a fair bit more agressive. he is king of the tank except when it comes to the male german blue ram; about half the size of the pearl but twice as aggressive(i originally had 2 pairs of GBR's, because of the male GBR its now only 1 pair).
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coop - Yeah, my male Pearl is the king of the tank as well, not even my male Apisto truly challenges him. This comes as a surprise to me though as the male pearl is also one of the biggest chickens in the tank as soon as an "outsider" appears (meaning a person). By now he has figured out that me standing next to the tank is not harmful, but he darts into hiding as soon as another person comes closer. Not to mention that you cannot find him once my hand penetrates the water (maintenance stuff). I checked last night on his coloration and yeah, there is not one bit of orange left.

Robyn, yeah - there are at least two forms of tenellus, but the other one is actually smaller with thinner leaves that are turning a reddish color in bright light. Amano uses that one quite often and I once got a tiny plant by accident (didn't grow for me).
About the filter cleaning: I don't believe I destroyed the bacteria in the filter completely as I rinsed the media in tank water. Sure, whatever was on the filter walls and media baskets is gone, but the surface of the media itself should have contained most of it anyway.

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Post InfoPosted 08-Nov-2006 11:24Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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yeah mines a real chicken when it comes to "outsiders" and matenence. i recently gave my tank a complete makeover and the whole timt he was flapping around in the back corner. strangly though he eats algea wafers out of my hand
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Those buckets of dirty water got me thinking. Still having BBA issues ...hmmmmmm.

I think it's pretty much been shown that BBA is reliant on carbon to thrive. Organics produce carbon,in a form difficult for planys to access but somewhat easier for algae specifically BBA. A dirty tank will produce algae.

I'm surprised you've gone that long between cleaning filters. For some reason I always clean my canister every 4-6 weeks. By clean I mean I totally dump the wool media , clean the can but don't touch the bio stuff (ceramic rings/efisubstrat). I've always done it this way, no particular reason just habit. The likes of Tom BArr are always stating the importance of keeping tank and filter "clean" - maybe that's where I picked it up.

Wondering if the amount of organics in an old "dirtier" filter is helping the BBA?

Class discussion ?


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Organics produce carbon,in a form difficult for planys to access but somewhat easier for algae specifically BBA.


Can you explain this a little more, if you can?

And if it thrives on carbon produced by organics, then why is it said that LOW carbon causes BBA, as opposed to an organic form?

I always thought of it being more of a steady C vs. fluctuating C issue.


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I always thought of it being more of a steady C vs. fluctuating C issue.
Maybe the organic form is a fluctuating one?

Come to think of it. I was having some aglae issues a while back. I think I cleaned out my filter and it went away. I was having issues with staghorn though. Which is one of two, the other being GS, that I get in my tank.

Now if the filter is good and dirty is the bio filter working at top production?

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Post InfoPosted 09-Nov-2006 14:45Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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Wondering if the amount of organics in an old "dirtier" filter is helping the BBA?

IMO yes. Nothing works in a vaccum, everything is part of the whole. The more organics in the tank/filter the more you might have issues. If you have a tank that has no fish only plants, you could probably get by with doing an annual filter cleaning as opposed to one stocked with fish that would require monthly or bi-monthly.

Listening to the conversations here at Planted Aquaria the conversations are usually as much about fish as they are about plants. There's nothing wrong with that mindset, but it does bring about more algae issues. The amount of organics affects the amount of filtration, flow, co2, etc that one would need to maintain an algae-free tank.

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I'll agree, but can't say I'm a shining example of someone who keeps their filter clean. I get to it every couple months. At this rate I can't say I've ever noticed a correlation between algae before and after cleanings, but maybe I would if I let it go longer. IMO it's the same as the junk in the gravel bed or rotting leaves or anything else. If I could I'd gravel vac every week too.



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Post InfoPosted 09-Nov-2006 16:27Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
Oooooooh, the grand master gave me the honor of a few words

Anyway, first things first:
coop - When I read your entry I had to laugh as feeding the Pearls is really like you describe, they eat out of your hand. Not only that, the way they open and close their mouths on the surface while eating looks to me like they are singing some song.

Some may have seen my picture of an old Espei a few weeks back. I did not see him anymore 3 days ago but then found him again 2 days ago, minus half his body Rest in peace old man, you were a proud father of many.

Now on to the filter cleaning:

Bensaf, you may have misunderstood:
By clean I mean I totally dump the wool media , clean the can but don't touch the bio stuff
I do that too, it was just the first time that I even cleaned out the media baskets. As mine are stuffed with media there is always something left behind when not removing from the baskets. And this gunk is also partially based on the redo two weeks earlier.

Nevertheless, I agree, dirty media can, and probably does, have something to do with the algae. But like all the others, please elaborate on the carbon culprit.

Thanks in advance,

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 10-Nov-2006 10:54Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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EditedEdited by FRANK
Hi,
Plants can extract the Carbon from organic compounds.
The problem is how tightly the element, Carbon, is bound
into the compound. An organic chemist, I am not, but I
do know that some molecules hang onto the elements that
make up that molecule more tightly than others.

The CO2 gas that we inject into our tanks is the easiest
for plants to extract the Carbon from. It requires less
energy from the plant and is why plants seem to "take off"
when we start using injected CO2.

It is the same with other elements that plants need.
Fe for instance as well as the trace elements. They
need to be introduced into the aquarium in the form
that is beneficial for plants, other wise they build up
to possibly toxic levels or precipitate out.

This is discussed extensively in Diana's book,
The Ecology of the Planted Aquarium.

Frank


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Post InfoPosted 10-Nov-2006 16:34Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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EditedEdited by bensaf
And if it thrives on carbon produced by organics, then why is it said that LOW carbon causes BBA, as opposed to an organic form?


Frank pretty much nailed how organics produce carbon.

But lets clear one thing up. Low Co2 in and of itself is not a cause of BBA. Fluctuating carbon levels will. In a non Co2 injected tank one of the best methods to avoid algae is to avoid water changes or actually, to avoid putting in sudden short doses of Co2 (from tap water) which will benefit algae more then plants. In an injected tank relatively high and stable is the way to go.

In an injected tank the plants are getting there carbon easily and readily in the quantities they need. A lot of "dirt" will produce carbon that may only benefit algae.As Frank mentioned the carbon is not Co2, more in the way of carbonate molecules. The plants simply won't be bothered stripping down the molecules when it already has all their carbon needs readily available. But BBA is built to access carbon in just that way.

I pull tanks up completely every year as I've noticed that things tend to go downhill at bit at that stage. They look dirty and old. No matter how fastidious you are you can't get everything at the regular water changes - things get under the wood and rocks etc.

The only tank I've never had BBA in (or any other form for that matter) is the small non Co2 low light desktop tank. It really is a method that truly seems foolproof and is the reason why I'd never bother with more then one hight light Co2 tank. Need the patience of a saint though - it grows very very very slowly and the plants stay much smaller,

Don't get me wrong , not saying Ingo has a filthy tank or anything. I could be going overboard but I've never let the canister go more then 6 weeks without a cleaning.


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EditedEdited by tetratech
I pull tanks up completely every year as I've noticed that things tend to go downhill at bit at that stage. They look dirty and old. No matter how fastidious you are you can't get everything at the regular water changes - things get under the wood and rocks etc.


That's an acurate statement. Everything is relative to this buildup. A year could probably be stretched to 18 months if your really anal about things(feeding,fishload, water changes, filter cleaning) or can be shortened if your very overstocked, etc. I notice some BBA on some of the eco which was never there before. It's not a big issue but it's there. That's why I'm also pushing the low ishload, low feeding thing, because this will buy you more time before things get real bad. The majority of aquarist feed and stock too much not to have some algae issues in hi-light planted tanks. I want to repeat something. It's not that they are overstocked or overfeeding in general terms, but they are when it comes to controlling algae in planted aquaria.

My Scapes
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Well thanks guys for the detailed inputs on carbon and BBA. I guess I will have to clean my filters more often the, right (as a reduced fish load is not an option ).

On with the show, I got loads of pictures and no time.

Weekly Tank Update - Week 59

To start off, here is the tank 3 weeks ago when it was set up in this layout:

Attached Image:

3 Weeks Ago



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And here is the tank now, with a few additions of Wisteria and some growth.

I think it still looks pretty, but some pruning is needed. I just didn't have the time for that this weekend and also I don't know what I would like to change yet.

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Tank Today



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Now I would like to show you how the tank looks when I have only the second row of lights with 5,500K on. Doesn't it look much greener? I am considering of switching to the 10,000K that I have:

Attached Image:

With 5,500K Only



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Here is a closeup of the Pearl Grass right afte water change. As you can see, it really pearls , but somehow it does not really look like grass though

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Pearl Grass



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My Excel Treatment that I started this week to fight off the existing BBA is showing effects, the algae is beginning to turn red or pale, as can be seen in this closeup of an leaf of the NL Java Fern.

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BBA Dying



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For Matty, a 4 picture special

Maybe Bensaf wants to chime in, that would be nice.

Here is one of two shots showing the current growth of the Ludwigia Peruensis. This one is closer to the bottom of the tank and a small sprout.

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LP new Growth I



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And here is one from the tallest of them in the tank. As you may see, the gap between the nodes is really small and there are still two leaves per node. Also, it has gotten much redder. The beginning of the new growth section can be easily identified:

Attached Image:

LP new Growth II



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Then I looked at the plant right next to it, my Alternanthera. Doesn't that plant look very similar? I wonder if I have some form of Alternanthera there!

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Alternanthera I



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One of the differences is that the gap between the nodes seem larger than on the LR, although they are at equal height in the tank.

The LR also appears to have shorter new leaves, actually it seems a little stunted. Maybe I should add more K, but I for sure beefed up the micros from 20ml to 30ml as of today.

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Alternanthera II



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The Star Grass in the tank is still growing strong, but I don't think it is right for the spot that it is at. Its stem is too weak and it gets blown heavily to its side by the current in the tank.

Here is one of the more stable parts of it as the current in that section isn't all that strong:

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Star Grass



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Here is the weakest section of the tank, at least in my opinion. The whole left side needs something, and I believe it needs less of a plant mish-mash. Maybe all should be wisteria for now and later I could add some highlights to it. I could use the crypts as a border section in the Island, but the tenellus would have to move to other tanks.

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Left Section



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On to some fish shots:

Whenever I enter the basement and it is evening I get to see this. OK, the female Apisto is there only sometimes, but the Rainbows for sure are waiting for food as this is the spot where I feed the tank.

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Rainbows I



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Once they realize that I am only there to hold this black thingy (camera) in front of my face they tend to peruse the tank some more. Here they are on the other end of the tank.

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Rainbows II



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My Apistos are always up for a nice photo, and they seem to enjoy beeing the center of my attention.

Here is the female staring at me like "Are we done yet?"

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Female Apisto I



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After a while she had enough and starts to swim off, on to finding some food in the tank.

These days she is wearing her bright yellow wedding dress only on rare occasions, maybe 3 days out of 7

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Female Apisto II



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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
Make Sure You Look At The Pictures On The Previous Page That Start This Weeks Update



Here is the male Apisto swimming through the bubbles of the CO2 output.

It seems to me as if he is eyeballing the Espei in the bottom right corner. I wouldn't be too surprised if he got a tast for them by now, given that it was he whom I found eating the dead (old) Espei during this week:

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Male Apisto I



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The male Apisto (and his girl) are the least shy fish in the tank. Whenever I put my finger on the glass all other fish first swim away (and may or may not come back), but he doesn't seem to be worried at all. Actually I think he likes the attention:

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Male Apisto II



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Just to show off his nice colors again, here he is from the full side.

He is just as handsome as ever

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Male Apisto III



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Ok,

On to some off-shots, more in line with the things Matty likes, but maybe the others will enjoy them as well.

Here you can see how full my tank is

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Small Gap Left



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And here is a look accross the length of the tank, from the left side to the right.

Last week I filled up the tank (by mistake) so much that the duck weed got stuck at the crossbars.

Attached Image:

Surface Movement



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And here is a look at the tank from the left side, showing more the frontal section. Most of my sideshots are guesswork as I don't really have the space to squeeze my head behind the camera for that angle:

Attached Image:

Tank From Left



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And here is a look into the tank from the right side. This spot is even tighter and I barely can hold the camera in my hand into an almost proper angle.

Sorry if they are not the greatest pictures.

Attached Image:

From Right Side



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The last 3 pictures are of the main island. Here is the first from a slight angle when standing closer to the left side of the tank:

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Main Island I



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And here is a look at the island from a slight angle to the right. I like how the Espei tend to peruse along the front edge of the island, they go very well with the color theme

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Main Island II



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And here is a head on, but angled down, shot of the island. I know it needs some work, at least the Star Grass needs trimming.

As you can see, I have closed the frontal gap between left and right and now the island is surrounded.

That is it for today,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Main Island III



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Neet shots there LF. I can't say that I know for sure what red plant you have there. I'm not sure. It's nice whatever it is. My ludwigia gets those crinkled leaves on the new growth when I don't dose a bit of calcium at waterchanges. I'm not sure why that is, I have hard water, and would think I had plenty of calcium, but it's at least something to go on.

I really enjoyed the shots from the side, that was a cool angle we haven't seen much before. It really helps get the 3D feel for the tank. The shot of the center group with the espei was particularly nice as well.

I've decided recently that I can't handle floating plant. I ended up ripping out my water lettuce. It kept floating to the front corner that didn't get light enough for them anyways. I applaud you for keeping some duckweed in there for the fish. That shot also showed me how well your tank was levelled when you set it up .

I'd say that something like a rock or non green plant would look good in the open area, but it sounds like you already had something like that in mind. I agree though, it could be a bit better on that side, maybe simpler would be better, maybe not. At least it's something easy to play with, just don't kill those tenellus movin' them around too much or I'll come after you....I know where you live.



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Have to say the tank is looking better then then ever.

Probably because it has more order and tighter groupings.

One minor quibble, I'd tighten up the red plant grouping a bit and pick just one species ( personally I prefer the Reineckii, the Ludwigia can be a pain to grow). Red beside red doesnit work and they slightly different shape of both makes it look untidy.

Nut the island formation looks good amd the tank finally has a distinct look rather then a mish mash


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Bensaf,

Before I race off to work, can you tell me what kind of plant you think this "Ludwigia" is. It was sold as peruensis, but Matty thinks otherwise and I have no idea.

I will comment on your entries more later,

Off to the races,

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Well,

I guess I missed Bensaf's presents here at FP by about 5 min . He will never let us know what plant I have there

Anyway, on with some comments:

Matty - Yeah, crinkled leaves and calcium, I thought about that. But I am adding already one tsp of Equilibrium weekly so I do not want to make the water any harder. Instead, I hope that upping the micros will help out. You may remember that I used to feed 50ml dosages of TMG, but with the new stuff I went to 20ml, as instructions from Tropica suggest. Now, with 30ml, I should see some changes, hopefully not in the amount of algae

About the leveling: well, I have to give credit for an almost even concrete floor, but thanks anyway. Overall, the tank is a little higher on the right than on the left, maybe a difference of 1/3 to 1/2 an inch.

Also, I will not try to kill the Tenellus, I promise . And yeah, the left side will undergo slooooow changes. For the first time in quite a while I look at the tasks at hand with excitement and not as a necessity.

Bensaf - Thank you so much, very nice of you to give me (or my tank) such praise. With regards to the Ludwigia, I assume you identified the plant then, right ? What makes it so hard to grow? Does it have specific requirements in nutrients, like loads of Iron or something like that? In either case, I will keep your words of mixing these plants in mind when I have enough of them (Alternanthera) to fill in the whole area.

Thanks for the input,

Ingo


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EditedEdited by Wingsdlc
I could use the crypts as a border section in the Island,
I think that is a really good idea. Then maybe a rock or something coming out of the wisteria would look nice as Matty has said.

Overall your tank is looking quite nice. I like the shots from the side too!

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Hi,
I throughly enjoyed the photo tour. It's no wonder that
the high point of the dollar two ninty eight tour of the
house begins and ends in the fishroom!

As far as the lighting is concerned, the tank (to me)
does not seem "greener" with the 5500K lights so much
as the light seems "yellower." It is lower in K and
will tend to the yellow, and then the red end of the
spectrum. While the 10,000k seems so bright that it
starts to "washout" the green colors. That's why I,
personally prefer the 6700-8800K bulbs.

Frank


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About the ludwigia, I didn't recognise the name 'til I found out it was another name for glandulosa. It needs a lot of light to look it's best which should be a deep purple. It's also very picky about nutrients, any slight shortage and it stops.Like most Ludwigia's it can decide just to melt away when trimmed.

When it's a deep purple it's too strong and distracting and is best as an accent.

I don't like the way it grows -straight up , never branches- the bottom leaves drop easily and it lloks like an umbrella. If it's not the deep purple there are lots of other plants that are better looking and easier to grow - like the Altherena. So why bother ?

I wasn't sure it LP you had from the pics but the close up show the leaves seem to be in groups of threes at the node which is typical for this plant. Kind of a star formation, so it probably is the ludwigia.


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Wow Ingo, I havn't looked at this thread in a few weeks, and my how it's changed.
I absolutely love the island! All that anubias with the lush sections of Alteranthera, pealgrass (something I've never had any luck with, and I'm envious) and still the ever-present stargrass looks absolutely great.
However, you have an awful long tank, and I agree that the sides need something... I wish I could help you with what that something may be

It's hard to believe based on your pictures that you have an algae problem. I'm battling algae in my planted right now, too, and I have to say that your trials have helped me out a great deal.

The dwarf rainbows are amazing! They've grown so much, getting that deep-bodied look of mature rainbows.

A question that was probably answered way back when, but just occurred to me is do you keep the tank covered at all? Do you have a canopy, or plain glass covers, or anything on this tank? If not, do you have a problem with jumpers? I know that I ocassionally find tetras and rasboras dried up on my floor just from leaving the lid slightly open on my tanks, and was wondering if that ever happens to you.

Hoping that there must be a word for everything I mean...
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Ok,

Thanks for all of the entries, here are my responses in order of entry:

Wings - Right now the tank gives me more options that I can even think off, and I can think off quite a few . Albeit I haven't made any changes yet, I am looking forward to some playtime in the tank. This is a fist in a loooooong time.

Frank - You are right, it is more yellow than green . I have the 6,700K as my all-day lights and turn the others on only for mid-day-lights. I may switch them to the 10,000K lights that I have lying around though, just for the fun of it.

Bensaf - Thanks a lot, my friend. I will have to do more research on the LRs, but from what you describe and from what I observe in the tank (stunting) it strongly appears as if you are right on. What else would I have expected anyway ?

illustrae - Thank you very much for stopping by and making an entry, I appreciate it . I am glad that my trials (and errors ) have helped you out, better learning from somebody else's mistakes than making them yourself .

Yes, I do have 3 glass panels on top of my tank, no canopy though. I like the glass/elevated lighting unit look, it has some high tech flavor to it. I have no doubt that the rainbows and pearls would already have been on the floor if I didn't.

Ingo


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EditedEdited by coop
i love your apistos, i want them so bad but the LFS only get cockatoo apistos and apistogramma borelli, dont like them.

Post InfoPosted 16-Nov-2006 08:40Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
FRANK
 
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Hi,
"A couple of THOUSAND gallons?" Now those pictures
I'd love to see!!
Has he posted them anywhere?
Frank


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Post InfoPosted 16-Nov-2006 08:57Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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EditedEdited by coop
firstly he is 84 and doesnt know how to use a computer, the net or a digital camera.none of wich does he have. its actaly 1 thousad gallons with angels and discus. and secondly i only see it about once a year(when get to see him)
and finally it will be sold by this christmas for $10,000 or there abouts
so i will try and get or find a photo by then. if not
(sorry about the edit on the post above, people will think we're crazy coz of that. i couldnt sell the pearls, they're to buetiful, instead m getting another female and a powerhead with a spray bar to try and stop aggression.)
Post InfoPosted 16-Nov-2006 10:34Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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OK,

I don't know what the two of you (Frank and coop) were talking about , but fine with me. Coop, more apisto shots are on the way further down.

Weekly Tank Update - Week 60

It was a busy week for me and as such I did not have a lot of time to care for the tank. All had to be done this weekend and now I am in a mad dash to get the Update in before other duties call me away again. I will respond to all your threads during the week, I promise

Here is the tank before the water change and fixes:

Attached Image:

Before Water Change



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Post InfoPosted 20-Nov-2006 03:17Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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As you can see, the star grass has grown way too tall by now, and the alternanthera is pretty much reaching the top. Also, note the green layer on top. My tank must have seen great growth during this week, or at least the duckweed did. Here is a look at the top where the duckweed forms a solid and non-moving carpet in the middle section of the tank. Not good for the plants below:

Attached Image:

Darn Duckweed



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And here is the tank after maintenance and water change.

Some things have changes, a few of which will be shown later. Here, I would like to mention that all crypts have been moved either to the island or to the 40G.

Attached Image:

Tank Now



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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
PLEASE LOOK AT THE FULL TANK SHOT ON BOTTOM OF LAST PAGE

The fish, BTW, are not swimming on the surface because of the CO2, but this shot was taken when it was feeding time.

Here is a closer look at the new left side. All is now wisteria with the exception of a group of Blyxa that I got from a local planted tank friend. It is huge, compared to the one in the 40, although he is the source for that one as well. I hope this one will keep in shape.

Attached Image:

Left Side



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One more plant picture, then I will show some fishies. The Star Grass in this shot almost didn't make it back in the tank. I intended to replace it with pearl grass, but that plant is way too "bendy" for the current in that area. Also, its leaves are a little too small to make for a good mid-level plant in the island.

Bensaf - I don't think that Ludwigia is grandulosa as I still have new growth with only 2 leaves per node. All other things you describe fit though, picky about ferts and loss of lower leaves.

In the end, I kept some star grass, here it is:

Attached Image:

Star Grass



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On to some fish.

The ones that worry me these days are the Espei. You may remember that I talked about the old one that died, well - now another one died and he may have been old too. And so is another one that is still alive, but seems to go the same way. But then there is also this one, he will be dead within this week. He seems much smaller and really really skinny, not like the other ones that live and died so far.

I hope there is nothing going around.

Attached Image:

Skinny Sick Espei



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Post InfoPosted 20-Nov-2006 03:32Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Either my computer is giving up or FP has issues, I just did a double post for no reason and it seems to be really slow in responding.

Anyway:

Here is the male pearl, followed by the female. He has some nicer color these days.

Attached Image:

Pearls



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And here is a closer look at one of my Rainbows. They play "who is the boss" all day long. I am sure they can participate at the Olympics with all this racing training they get in a 6 foot tank

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Rainbow



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On to the Apistos, for coop and all others that may care.

Here is the female, looking pretty in her wedding dress. The reason why she is colored up is because the male is near by and clearly in the mood for some fry making

Attached Image:

Female Apisto



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And here is the man we were talking about, the male Apisto. I always tend to show shots of the full fish, but I thought I might try a closeup to give you more details about him.

Good idea?

Attached Image:

Male Apisto I



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And here he is again, in this last shot for tonight. Here he has his fins standing out as the female is near and he needs to show that he is in good shape. And he sure is !!!

And that's it for tonight, hope you like it,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Male Apisto II



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Post InfoPosted 20-Nov-2006 03:41Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
TW
 
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Your apisto girl chose a very nice wedding dress indeed. Very pretty. I hope she is able to tempt her groom and has more sucess than my nigrerian red girl. She is trying very hard to tempt, with little response from her intended groom.

Looks like you've had a lot of growth & the wisteria has really grown in. I take it you removed some of the duckweed to let in more light?



Cheers
TW
Post InfoPosted 20-Nov-2006 03:52Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Wow, LF that first shot of the male close up is so focused that you can see the cephalic pores on it's head. Nice

I have to say that I disagree with bensaf on the ludwigia glandulosa. In your tank by now it should be deep red top and bottom with one leaf per node, not two. Ludwigia glandulosa may drop its leaves, which is common of high light demanding plants, but it's not picky about nutrients. If it were, there's no way it would be so red for me. Mine transformes rather quickly maybe in two or three weeks it was really deep red top to bottom, look at my tank log now to check out what it looks like. That's par for what I've seen on the web...some are even more purple.



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Post InfoPosted 20-Nov-2006 06:26Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
coop
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EditedEdited by coop
love em. beutiful fish. those rainbows are praecox right?
just wondering coz i want some for my next set up(once i get a bit more money) wich is actually gonna be a 35G paludarium(is actually ment to be a frog tank but im not really into frogs).

my 55g was nearly half filled with wisteria, but i removed all of it when i did a fuul makeover, didnt really like it but it works good in yours.


me and frank were talking about the first post that i edited, it said that i was gonna sell my pearlscoz of aggression(couldnt do it)and i had a brag about my granpas 1000gal that inspired me to try a SA theme.

good photographer LITTLE_FISH
Post InfoPosted 20-Nov-2006 09:31Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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LF,

This tank looks quite empty after your trim job. Once again I will have to say that you need to find some rocks for this tank! A few stuck in the center mound and then some in the open space to give it some contrast and hight.

It seems you have taken some lessons from tetra on how to grow wisteria. Too bad he doesn't have the guts to show his tank off in the past couple of months.

55G Planted tank thread
19G Container Pond
[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
Post InfoPosted 20-Nov-2006 17:55Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
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Thanks folks for the input

Robyn, yeah the female wears a beautiful dress rather often and I think they have eggs rather often, but ACIDRAIN once mentioned to me that his viejita are lousy parents in the community tank, and so are mine.

Matty - I guess that means the Ludwigigia question is open then again. What if you don't have grandulosa either as bensaf mentioned 3 leaves per node?

Coop - yup, this are praecox, but I don't think they would be happy campers in a 35G paludarium. Too small, not enough water for a small school.

Wings - Slooow changes, young grasshopper (better than babe, right?) Maybe one I day I will add rocks, maybe not, time will tell. The base for a nice tank is set, all other things will take time.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 21-Nov-2006 00:57Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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EditedEdited by mattyboombatty
Matty - I guess that means the Ludwigigia question is open then again. What if you don't have grandulosa either as bensaf mentioned 3 leaves per node?


That's why I said I didn't agree with Bensaf on the ID:

I have to say that I disagree with bensaf on the ludwigia glandulosa. In your tank by now it should be deep red top and bottom with one leaf per node, not two. Ludwigia glandulosa may drop its leaves, which is common of high light demanding plants, but it's not picky about nutrients.


Glandulosa for sure has only one leaf per node. Quick take a look here]http://www.aquahobby.com/garden/e_Ludwigia_glandulosa.php[/link], [link=here]http://www.aquaticplantcentral.com/forumapc/plantfinder/images/Onagraceae/Ludwigiaglandulosa.jpg[/link] and the second pic [link=here. They all stagger one leaf per node in a star shape upwards around the stem. I did a lot of lookingwhen I bought the plant to figure out what I had. Oh, and you won't find peruensis unless you are looking to buy a plant...for some reason dealers use a false name.



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Post InfoPosted 21-Nov-2006 03:19Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
coop
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oh, thats to bad(just adding that the tank is actualy 55 G but with 30-35gal worth of water in it.)
Post InfoPosted 21-Nov-2006 08:47Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Well Matty, time will tell what it is that I have in there. If I don't remove the plant first, that is
Did you see my entry in your tank log where I mention that maybe neither you nor I may have Amano Pearl Grass?

coop - Well, that may work for you then, 35G of water should allow you to have 6 of them and still give them some space to swim around. That would be a 4 foot tank, right?

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 21-Nov-2006 10:45Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
coop
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courrect, i might want to put a couple of golden panchax in now though. thats well in the future though, havnt even started the thing.

i think your tank looks heaps better now, more like professional aquascaping or sumthin.

i used to think my tank looked great but then i changed it around so that i have an island at each and of the tank and a space in the middle, looks heaps better now(still got crappy lookin driftwood but)
Post InfoPosted 22-Nov-2006 09:10Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Coop,
so that i have an island at each and of the tank and a space in the middle
Hey, you should take a look at tetratech's log as he just has shown us the first picture of his new setup, with two islands and a space in the middle.

Can we get a link to a picture of your tank sometime?

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 22-Nov-2006 10:37Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
coop
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yeah thats the same kind of thing, but at eiver end of mine the plants reach the surfac and the gap in mine is less centred(more to the right)
Post InfoPosted 23-Nov-2006 01:37Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Once again coop,
Can we get a link to a picture of your tank sometime?



Your tank for sure sounds very interesting and I really would like to see a picture of it. Then we all can go and take it apart . Or steal some ideas

Just kidding, we will not rip it apart, of course.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 23-Nov-2006 13:08Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
coop
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EditedEdited by coop
yeah sure, but i need to get a new charger for my digital camera(i accidentally stamped on it and braoke it)

oi,my anubias nana has now got 3 flowers on it, lookin good!!
Post InfoPosted 23-Nov-2006 23:35Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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my anubias nana has now got 3 flowers on it
On one rhizome? That beats my heavy flowering nanas and barteries easily. Now you really have to get a charger fast as I would really like to see a shot of that

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 24-Nov-2006 04:21Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
coop
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EditedEdited by coop

yeah on one rhizome, i just had the best oppotunity for a great photo, but i couldnt take it

it was the male GBR dipping his head down to one of the flowers with the other two in the background, looked like a humming bird or sumthin. that gets me soooo angry !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


i was, just then, looking through this log(im bored)just randomly clicking on pages and i clicked on page 48 i think. position no.4 of the driftwood is exactly what i want in the right hand corner of my tank. where did you get that?LFS or self collected?
id have that crawling with nana's (not grandmas, anubias. damn im funny) from the one i have now.

i dont even have co2 in my tank either(cant get any co2 systems excepty for liquid co2, which can cause massive ph drops) im having a bit of a problem with plants, pretty sure its nitrate deficiency, 20ppm. some have yellowy brown dots on the leaves.

just wondering, what do you do for tank maitenance and what do you feed your fish?
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Coop,

Nice description of a photo that could have been

The driftwood that you describe from page 48, or something like that, does not exist in this form any more. Immediately after identifying how it should go in the tank I had to cut it into 2 pieces as it was too large even for a 125G. And now, with the last redo, I cut it down even further into many little branches that now border the island. I got this wood from EBay and payed way too much for it (). Somebody found it in some river down in Texas and sold it on the web, and the last minute bitting was a pure war of nerves. NowherMan6 was the person who pointed it out to me.

What do you mean with liquid CO2 and causing massive ph drops? Never heard of that. Do you know Flourish Excel? That is a liquid carbon solution and quite a few people use it to have C in their tank (like me, for my 2 low tech tanks). But it is of course more expensive (in the long run) than a CO2 system.

Your nitrates are 20ppm? That is not a deficiency at all, that is the desired level for planted tanks. BUT - only if all other nutrients are at their proper levels as well, and if one follows Tom Barr's Estimative Index (EI). Otherwise, the value would be considered high. Have a look at Chuck Gadd's Nutrient Deficiency list to see what may be wrong in your tank.

What do I feed my fish? Mostly, I would say 95%, flakes. The rest is the occasional treat of freeze dried foods like tubifex worms, bloodworms, brime shrimp, all small stuff.

So, that's enough for this entry,

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 24-Nov-2006 11:49Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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No. 3000

Yeah!



Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 24-Nov-2006 11:51Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
coop
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on the liquid co2, i was talking on another forum about it and blackwater extract. someone told me that the liquid co2 causes your ph to drop...the same person who told me i have a nitrate deficiency and it should be around 30ppm. i hane a feeling they had no idea what they where talkin about.

Driftwood:yeah i noticed it was a bit chopped up now

but if that peice was about L 20" W 12" and H 16"
it would be perfect
did you treat it yourself? if so how?....... i cant get any good wood around hear so ill have to try and get some from down at my river.

do not know of flourish excell, ive only started proper aquascaping and planted tanks in the last 4 months or so(been in the hobby for about 2 years now) they sure beat my other bad looking tanks i started with.
i think its either manganese calcium or potassium in conjuction with hungry pearl goramis, its mainly in the giant hygro and the polysperma.

well thats all i have to say for now


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i hane a feeling they had no idea what they where talkin about.
Could well be, or they knew too much and didn't share it all with you. In either case, WRONG!

I relied on the person that I purchased the driftwood from to tell me if I would have to treat it. She said no, and as such I only soaked it for a week or so in the bathtub, plus the occasional scrubbing like a madman.

Wood that is in a river for just a short period is not qualified for a tank (bugs and critters) and most of the time will take forever until it will stay down by itself and stop leaching tannins.

Check into Excel for a CO2 substitue, I think it is available in your country as well. Also, I doubt that it is a potassium issue, although you may well have a low in that department too. I would assume you have a general lack of micro nutrients. What is your fert schedule?

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Post InfoPosted 25-Nov-2006 01:53Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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i weekly dose with a liguid fert with N,P,K(2.6,0,5.0)
and trace elements including chelates of iron, copper, manganese boran and zinc.
my rooed plants such as echinodorus also have JBL 7 Balls wich are like a pellet wich slowly releases iron and trace elements throughout the year.

any suggestions for other ferts?

most of the DW in the river(brackish) has been there for decades except for a couple of fallen over trees that have been there for about 3 years or more.
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dose with a liguid fert with N,P,K(2.6,0,5.0)
Uh, here is something that you can teach me: What do the numbers in the brackets mean? I would say it must be some concentration level measure, but why would P be zero? And is that right that there seems to be twice as much K than N?

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Post InfoPosted 25-Nov-2006 12:44Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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From what I understand those numbers represent the percent of each of those in the fert. So if his numbers are correct there is no "P" in the fertilizer.

Congrats on 3000

My Scapes
Post InfoPosted 25-Nov-2006 15:19Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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EditedEdited by coop
n= nitrates p=phosphorus k=potassium
it means there is 2.6 parts nitrates to ) parts phosphorus and 5.0 parts potassium.

the dont add phosphorus becuase it is what algea thrives on
and yes there is twice as much potassium so that there isnt a huge amount of nitrates going in to your tank.

after this weeks water change im gunna dose liquid ferts daily so that the nutrients are there on a daily basis instead of just a massive boost once a week. im looking in to buying the liquid co2 now,BTW i just added six home bred and grown honey gouiramis, they are mostly males though. i was worried the pearls would attach them but thhey havnt yet so all is good.

enough about my aquarium though, i feel like im kinda steeling your log.

BTW, i think your due for a weekly update



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I think your due for a weekly update
- Right, I will do that in a second, but first some input to your fert entry:

You are waaaayyy off! Read This Article for more information on ferts and dosing, it may give you some ideas.

And here it is, albeit not much to write about:

Weekly Tank Update - Week 61

Not too much has happened during this week, most of my concerns where related to stuffing Blyxa back into the substrate. Every time when I get some new plants of this species they come without roots and tend to float like mad. So, for 4 days in a row, I had to shove between 2 and 4 of them back into the gravel. By now they seem to stay down though.

The Wisteria is growing nicely, and so are most other plants.

Here is the tank after the island was created, 5 weeks ago:

Attached Image:

5 Weeks Ago



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And here is the tank last night. I am still wondering if I should give the pearl grass a trim as it has reached its peak height (although it can grow taller, but that is as tall as I would like it to get).

Also, because the island has become more dense with trimmings from the alternanthera and the inserts of crypts, the lower parts of the star grass seem to be too dark and wither away. I may trim them as well.

Attached Image:

Tank Last Night



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Here is a closer look at the left side. The tank light and the camera make the blyxa blend in more with the wisteria than it is when viewed directly, so don't even comment on that fact

Not visible in the picture are one or the other tenellus plantling that I did not see when I removed them all to add them to the 29. I will keep them in there for a while, we will see if they make it in the wisteria jungle.

Attached Image:

Left Part of Tank



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It seems like my Apistos are filing for divorce, at least that is how I interpret their facial expression and body positioning in this picture.

Not the best shot, but better than none

Attached Image:

Leave Me Alone



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Already the last shot for this log today (waaayyy more will come in the 40G log), a closer look at the Island.

The one thing I am trying out (as of yesterday) is having my light further back than I used to. Before, it was pretty much in the middle of the tank depth, now it is about 2/3 back. I don't need that much light over the Wisteria in the front and I think the island and blyxa will profit from it. What do you think?

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Island



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Post InfoPosted 26-Nov-2006 13:48Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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EditedEdited by FRANK
Hi,
I do love that tank! With the shift in the light toward
the back of the tank, I suspect that you will change the
dynamics of the plant growth and the leaves may tilt in
the new direction. The Wisteria, in particular, may
change leaf "texture" and you may wind up trimming a whole
lot more as they stretch up instead of out toward
the shifted light source.

My Wisteria grows on stalks nearly a 3/8 inch thick and
sends out runners parallel to the gravel. The central
plant grows an unbelievable root system, and I nearly
up root everything else in the tank when I try to remove
it. So, I stopped trying. I let the three main stalks
stay where they are and snip off their tops and
either replant them elsewhere, or toss them.

Frank


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Thanks Frank for the input and the compliment on the tank itself, I appreciate it.

Yeah, the wisteria can develop quite some root system, I experienced that in the past when I had it too settle the tank and when I had it dispersed throughout the tank as a nutrient sucker. I will have to talk to tetratech about the details on creeping-wisteria-maintenance

The leaves should not change direction too much as the light shift was maybe 2 inches at most 3 inches. I guess we will see the difference in a few weeks when I make another comparative update.

Thanks again,

Ingo


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Very nice looking LF

Re the light move. Your lights are probably so good, that no-matter where you position it, all your plants will still be very happy. But re-positioning my blyxa in the best possible light spot sure helped mine out.

I'm sure your blyxa will thank you for the extra light.

Cheers
TW
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coop
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what am i way off about?
sorry dont have time right now to read the thingy.

i no im right about the N,P,K because thats what we were taught in Agriculture.

ive been treating daily since friday, all synptoms seem to have gone except for a couple of ugly leaves on one of they giant hygro's.

one of the anubias flowers died


looking good
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Thanks Robyn for the re-assurance on the light move, when I look into the tank now from the side I can see the light straight above the middle (in depth) of the main island.

Coop - maybe at some point we should discuss your ferts in a separate thread that you could create. In general, adding N but no P is way off, plus all the other stuff.

Ingo


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slickrb
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Ingo,

The tank is looking good. I really like how it is developing. Always love the pictures!

Rick
See all my pictures at Google Web Albums
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Thanks Rick,

The next set of pictures will have to wait until at least tonight as I did not take any yet (although I have done the water change). Too busy

Ingo


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Weekly Tank Update - Week 62

This week has seen some inconsistency in the fert schedule as I had no chance on two days to fert the tank, given that I spent them at work. So, first I missed a micro day and did it the following day, then I missed the next macro day and skipped the 3rd "feeding" completely. We will see if it has a negative impact.

Not much happened otherwise, I did some wisteria and star grass trimming.

Here is the full tank shot:

Attached Image:

Full Tank Today



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Here is a closer look at the left tank side, trying to show that there is really another plant, the blyxa, in the middle of the wisteria lawn.

In reality, the color difference between these two plants is a little stronger.

Attached Image:

Blyxa in Wisteria



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And here is a look at the right edge of the main group. The red Wendtiis are not doing to well and undergo quite a bit of melting. The NL Java Fern is doing ok though, but it tends to be the first plant that develops signs of BBA on its tips. The wood is beginning to be a host for hair algae again.

Attached Image:

Right Part of Island



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Here is a close look into the center of the island, showing the various colors that are present there.

In addition, the crypt shown in this picture is the one that I think tetratech has.

Attached Image:

Center Look



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Here is a look at two of my rainbows,they are fine week in and week out. Just like Matty's, they always are up for a chase amongst themselves, including some stand-off to identify "who is the boss". Every day anew.

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Rainbows



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Here you can see my female viejita again, she is soooo nice. In this shot though, she is spreading her fins, I wonder why?

Attached Image:

Female viejita II



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And here is the answer:

The male was near by and they were showing to each other. I often think that she must lay some eggs somewhere, but is just not commited enough to actually take care of the fry.

I wonder what could be if I would place them in a separate tank (which I don't have).

Ok, that's it for this weekend,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Pair viejita II



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EditedEdited by TankWatcher
In reality, the color difference between these two plants is a little stronger.
This blending of greens in camera shots .... know exactly what you mean. I can imagine all the subtle differences in your tank when viewing in real life.

I like your middle shot, showing all the different colour details. My hubby doesn't understand why I am so desperate for better lights, so I can have colours like yours. On Saturday he said "he wished he could get through to me not to change a thing". Ahhh, but to have nice reds like you He just doesn't understand.

And I agree, your viejita girl. A most attractive lady. And, Yes, Yes, Yes - get them a separate tank & see what happens. What fun. I'll pop straight over to your Christmas present thread and put that suggestion in in BOLD CAPITALS. No doubt, your management won't give permission, but still.....

Cheers
TW
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No doubt, your management won't give permission
You got that right Robyn
Why would my management be any different than yours

I think the nicest red plant that I had so far was my Rotala Macandra, but that group at some point decided that it doesn't like my tank anymore and it melted away. I don't know why up to this day.

Ingo


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Why would my management be any different than yours
I know, I know, I know.

But sometimes, deals can be struck

Maybe one day. For now, I will just have to be satisifed with reading about the activities of your cacs in the 40G I guess.


Cheers
TW
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EditedEdited by tetratech
What to get for XMAS? How about what to get for your Birthday?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

My Scapes
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Thanks tetratech,

I haven't even had the time to think about treating myself for my birthday, I guess I will have to spend more money when I treat myself for Xmas then

Ingo


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Oh, I didn't realise.

Happy Birthday to you
Happy birthday to you
Happy birthday dear Ingo
Happy birthday to you

Hip Hip Hooray

Sorry I'm late.

Cheers
TW
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Happy Birfday, Lf

Also, nice fish pics, very pretty apisto pair. I'm sure they steal attention away from the rest of the good looking crowd.

Back to the paper



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happy Birthday!!!

I get bored with saying <- this smiley does not poke its tongue out enough!!!!

Your tank looks fantastic.

I saw those fish in my LFS a couple of weeks ago. yours look better.

going now.

humph.

GFG


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HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Frank

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Thanks everybody for the Birthday wishes and comments on the tank/fishies

GFG - My pair of viejita II looked nothing like this when I got them from the LFS, all gray and rather boring. If it wouldn't have been for the nice employee (whom I trust as we have had a few fish-conversations beforehand) I would not have shelled out the $80 they cost at that store. In the end, I am glad I did as this is a very nice looking, pieceful, and enjoyable couple.

Ingo


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n the end, I am glad I did as this is a very nice looking, pieceful, and enjoyable couple.


Well, despite the ensuing divorce, that is...

Happy birthday, belated of course.

As for presents, enough with this fish stuff, you KNOW you want to expand that Canon lens selection!


Back in the saddle!
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fish patty
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HAPPY BIRTHDAY LITTLE FISH!

I don't keep up with logs very well........ I'm not that advanced. But I do peek in occasionally to see the pretty tank pics.

Oh.......... NOW that you have me leery of being bitten by little fish, you change your logo!

Out of curiosity, what little fish is it that bit you one time to make you used to have that logo?
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you KNOW you want to expand that Canon lens selection
Yeah, I wouldn't mind a lens for the real real close ups. The wife got me a photo printer for my birthday (Epson R800, I think, no idea if it is any good, but so far even 8x11 pics look nice) and I really would like to get some great ultra-close-ups. Any suggestion?

what little fish is it that bit you one time to make you used to have that logo?
fish patty - glad to see that some others than the usual gang is looking into my log(s) once in a while. No fish bit me though . My name is here is LITTLE_FISH and my siggi line made it clear to all that one better does not mess with me by assuming that a little fish can be pushed around. So, if forced, I would have been the one doing the biting

Ingo


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EditedEdited by fish patty

OHHHHHH! That explains a lot! DUH!

Well, I'm so glad to hear that! And here I was thinking you were just somewhat of a woos! (sp)

Ok, now that I know, I won't mess with the LITTLE FISH.

I'm sure we would all be surprised if we knew how many people looked in on our threads! It's only the smallest fraction that might comment. I look at ALL the recent threads, but only scan the SW, crustations, logs, etc., things I'm not really interested in.

The logs are waaaaaay past me since I'm just a beginner & it's all I can do to keep up with water quality, especially since I have a 55 gal.. Hoping to get a python some day.

I'm one of those people that get interested in things & then dwindles off. I wouldn't be surprised if I dwindled off FP some day. I noticed from old posts that a lot of people come & go. So, we'll see.

All this talk about ferts., substrate, special lighting, co2!? Ummmm no thanks!
Don't think I ever want to get to that point. But I have noticed many posts with people like me that have regular low lighting & regular gravel & want to make do with what they have & still have some live plants. I may go that route that some day.................
meantime I will just keep reaping the benefits of the hard work people like you put in & just view your tanks from where I sit. (lurking in the background with the others)
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80 dollars?

My God. they weren't expensive here at all. thy were just a bit more expensive then normal but not 80 dollars.

wow. am glad I live near Europe for the first time ever!!!

Fish Patty - I hear you on the ferts malarky, I too am a fan of the good pictures, my tanks survive on the basics!

GFGxx


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fish patty - Sorry to read that you are an "Interest-Looser" , maybe this hobby can maintain your focus for a while as there are so many facets to be explored. About the siggie line, I think GFG's line just above is stating more clearly what mine was (more or less) implying)

GFG - My LFS is known to be on the more expensive side of things, I am most certain that you can get this fish (as a pair) in other areas of the US for half the money.

Ingo


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belated birthday wishes, ingo!

i was just doing a bit of a catch-up on this thread, and it occurred to me - if you didn't fertilise so much, have such good light etc, maybe you wouldn't have to prune and maintain so much!!!

justin
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Ha Ha Justin



Well, if I didn't have soooo many ferts, and less light, and maybe no CO2, yeah - less pruning would be required. But ups, that would be a low light low tech tank then

Actually, these days with the new layout, the pruning is much less then it was with the old setup where fast growers were dominating (given that there is a difference between the fast growers, as Wisteria in the tank is growing less fast than Star Grass).



Ingo


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Gang,

Sorry to say that my weekly tank updates will have to wait at least until tonight.

I have been very busy hosting this month's NJAGC meeting and that took all out of me, preparing the tanks on Thursday and Friday, hosting on Saturday, cleaning and adding new plants to my tank(s) on Sunday - including another Ingo Style makeover on the 20G QT

But it has been a blast,

Ingo


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I was starting to wonder what happened to you! At least you were having some plant fun!

As always I look forward to seeing the new pictures.

55G Planted tank thread
19G Container Pond
[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
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NowherMan6
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Allow me to be random for a moment, because your av. reminded me of something I read recently on APC. In an article about anubias, the writer said that higher levels of phosphate seem to lead to flowering. I know you have higher levels of P - could this be the reason why your anubias seem to flower so much more than others'??? Just putting it out there randomly, my apologies if this has already been discussed to death.


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EditedEdited by Wingsdlc
Interesting point Nowher. I don't think that has been talked about here. I might have missed it though...

Mine flowered once back this spring. I have no idea what I did special for it either. It just happened. I might start doesing some P in the tank its in now just to see what happens. The tank already has my flowering crypt in it so why not add another plant to the list of flowers.

55G Planted tank thread
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[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
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Thanks for the P info, makes a lot of sense, as I have about 3 to 5ppm of it

Weekly Tank Update - Weeks 63 and 64

First of all, sorry for my lack of participation lately. There have been two main reasons why I was slacking off:

1) I hosted the second meeting of the NJAGC last weekend (see siggie line)
2) I have been killed with work, 15 hour workdays plus 3 hour commute were pretty much normal (and may continue for the next two weeks, at least)

The first was a treat that included a lot of preparation, including early water changes so that the tank is in a more normal state (not crazy pearling, for example) during the presentation). As a result of that meeting, I was left with quite a few plants from our usual plant swap and had to find a home for some of them (one I still haven't placed).

So, without further details, here is the tank last week:

Attached Image:

Last Week - 63



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LITTLE_FISH
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I managed to add my ferts during the week, usually at 4:30AM as I came home way too late at night to do it then. As a result, fish have not been fed 3 times this week

Plant growth was strong nevertheless, but by Friday I also ran out of CO2 and had to get a refilled bottle on Saturday.

Here is the tank before some trimming yesterday:

Attached Image:

Yesterday Morning



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There are two new plants in the tank right now, I will mention them a little later. A third is in the net breeder.

This week, I only trimmed the Wisteria in the foreground as it was beginning to grow rather tall.

I know that quite a few plants are in need of a trim, but I am worn out and didn't want to spend too many hours of my off-time on the tanks.

Attached Image:

Tank Now



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One of the new plants is a lilly, but I don't even know what its name is. It was a leftover from the plant swap and I couldn't throw it out, it was too nice. I placed it in the tank where there was some space and where it would kindoff fit in.

I think I saw a few days later that tetratech added the same or a similar lilly, but I swear that I had mine first

Attached Image:

Lillies



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Post InfoPosted 17-Dec-2006 15:38Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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The other new plant is also a lilly, I think it is called a Tiger Lilly. It has large leaves of which some melted away from being in a bag for too long. It was also given to me during the plant swap.

And that is it for this tank and this weekly update,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Lilly



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Post InfoPosted 17-Dec-2006 15:40Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
dan76
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hi ingo , been away for a while , the tank looks great


cheers dan










onetwothreefourfivesixseveneightnineteneleventwelvethirteenfourteenfifteensixteenseventeen, thats all you need

OH TOLEEDY!
Post InfoPosted 18-Dec-2006 04:48Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
jase101
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ooh, ooh, i know those ones!! finally, a plant you own that i know! they're all varieties of tiger lotus - the second picture is a particularly gorgeous variety that i own - very dark, thick stems, gorgeous patterned leaves, and sends strong lily-pad style leaves to the surface once established. heavy root feeders, don't like being moved at all, very strong root systems, propogate by pup, yadda yadda yadda... i'm sure you could have just looked that up on tropica!!

hope your hard work ends soon ingo, and gives you some time to enjoy your family and your tanks!!

have a merry christmas, too.

regards,

justin
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Thanks Dan for the compliment and Justin for the input on the lotus. I somehow thought it must be a lotus, and not a lilly as I wrote, I guess the last week really wore me down, .

I had to move the strong lotus twice, I hope it will forgive me for it.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 18-Dec-2006 16:44Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Both tanks are starting to look nice and full. They are really starting to look great Ingo, I wish I could say the same for mine. I just trimmed my plants for the first time in a few weeks and pulled a basketball sized amount of stargrass and pearlgrass out . It looks like you are able to treat your tanks a little better than me, even though you are busy. Looks great, keep it up/:'



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Post InfoPosted 18-Dec-2006 17:12Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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I think I saw a few days later that tetratech added the same or a similar lilly, but I swear that I had mine first

Since you broght it up, mine was featured in my makeover Nov 21 (Pg. 85) of my 72G log.

It is also known as a tropical lilly. BTW the tank looks great Really like the Wisteria Wizard influence

My Scapes
Post InfoPosted 18-Dec-2006 17:14Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
NowherMan6
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Glad to see you back, LF. Despite the busy work week I hope you at least are able to enjoy a few days off around christmas.

I second (or third.. or fifth..) everyone's thoughts about the tank.

The one thing I really noticed though is how large your dwarf rainbows have gotten! They appear almost as large as the pearls! How nice to see the kiddies really growing up...


Back in the saddle!
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I hope you at least are able to enjoy a few days off around christmas


Unfortunately it we will have some family over on Xmas, and then I got to go back to work. If things turn out not too good then I may even work on Xmas and New Year itself. But so far, I think I will have at least the weekends and holydays off.

Thanks all for the compliments and input:

- tetratech, I guess I was not the first with the Lotus then, or is it a Lilly, or can one use either name ?

- Matty, I think my Wisteria is not as well trained as Tetratech's as it starts to grow upwards now (or it is just too crowded on the bottom already). I should have trimmed some more this weekend, but I was too tired.

- NowherMan6, the downside of having your little ones all grown up is that they enter a later stage in their lives, and eventually die

Thanks again,

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 18-Dec-2006 18:47Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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Matty, I think my Wisteria is not as well trained as Tetratech's as it starts to grow upwards...

It takes a while. The longer you do it the more readily it grows horizontially. It also helps you plant it on an angle to the substrate. This will force more roots along the length of the stem.



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LF,

The tank still looks nice. It hasn't really changed much in the past few weeks but that isn't always a bad thing.

Congrates on becoming a member of NJAGC. I wish we had something like that around here but I can't fathom it happening anytime soon.

Best wishes these next couple of weeks with work.

55G Planted tank thread
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Post InfoPosted 18-Dec-2006 19:44Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
jbe0404
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LF,

It's been a while since I've visited the web-site. I've been real busy as of late with school and work. The first thing I did when I visited the site tonight was to check the status of this tank and I must say that you are an aquascaping genious. I wish I had the money and the time to invest into my tanks. All in all, you have a very beautiful tank.

jbe
Post InfoPosted 29-Dec-2006 09:48Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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jbe0404 - Thanks for the compliments, keep on checking on the log, I appreciate it.

I myself did not find the time to update the log in almost two weeks now, or even longer.

SORRY ABOUT THAT!!!

And I am super busy at work, barely finding the time to do the basic maintenance on the tank. In fact, there have been at least 4 not-done fertilizer days, and just as many non-food days. And I have to say, the plants seem to do rather well with it.

My work situation is not getting much better just yet, tomorrow will be a work day from 6:45 AM to 3:00 AM as we go live with an important new product (software).

K, so here is some update, in just a few pictures:

Weekly Tank Update - Week 65 and 66

Here is the tank about a week ago, week 65:

Attached Image:

Week 65



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And here is the tank today. Last week saw the trimming of the main group, this week has seen more trimming of the Wisteria (was needed in 29G, update there will follow).

Tank Now:

Attached Image:

Week 66



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LITTLE_FISH
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The Tiger Lilly for sure seems to like it in my tank, it has grown at least 5 new leaves since added about 3 weeks ago.

Here is a close-up:

Attached Image:

Tiger Lilly



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Post InfoPosted 01-Jan-2007 22:53Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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And the carful observer for sure has seen the net thingy in the last picture's foreground.

Yes, I have started my first Riccia Rock, what a PISA to get a larger rock covered with pieces and then wrapped in a net. Well anyway, it is starting to grow out now, one week after creation:

Attached Image:

Riccia Rock



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LITTLE_FISH
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The last picture is of the Blyxa group on the left Wisteria field. Here, I always have to watch out that the Wisteria is not growing too strongly over this plant, because of shading. But so far so good.

Well, that's it for now, over to the 40 and 29 tank logs.

Sorry again for my lack of participation,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Blyxa



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Wingsdlc
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LF,

Even though your life has been crazy the tank looks quite nice. I am glad nothing has gotten out of control on you.

The Lilly looks quite nice and how do you think tetra is going to feel about you having riccia too?




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Post InfoPosted 02-Jan-2007 00:42Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
TW
 
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Your tiger lily is looking really good, as is everything else.
how do you think tetra is going to feel about you having riccia too?
Well, LF is not the only one. I have it too & don't you as well, Wings (or am I thinking of someone else)?

Cheers
TW
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slickrb
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EditedEdited by slickrb
Ingo,

I continue to enjoy this tank. It looks great even with everything going on. Just try keep your head above water at work!

Rick
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Wingsdlc
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You are right Robin. I have it too. Very neat stuff!

55G Planted tank thread
19G Container Pond
[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
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slickrb
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Well, LF is not the only one. I have it too & don't you as well, Wings (or am I thinking of someone else)?


First Wisteria and now Ricca, apparently Tetra's plants are contagious.

**Cover's Mouth **

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Post InfoPosted 02-Jan-2007 20:31Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Thanks all,

Mostly for the wishes about the work thing. It is 2:20AM (and I am here since 6:40AM) and I am still in a conference call resolving release issues. No idea when I get out tonight.

It will get better and then I have some more time to chat

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 03-Jan-2007 09:23Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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The Lilly looks quite nice and how do you think tetra is going to feel about you having riccia too?


Well "imitation is the greatest form of flattery"

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just came by for my regular Drool session



big hugs to hard working man!

hope everything goes well with the software malarky!

GFGxx

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EditedEdited by coop
not much going on here. hows your male pearl going? coloured up much more? a picture maybe? anfd your viejita to plz i bought a new camera soonce i get a couple of new plants and try to send some photos. tanks looking great. oh i changed my ferts so now i use tetra florapride and flourish excel, plants are looking great.
im likeing your 40G tank better now days.

oh i just read what you have written on the last couple of pages(bored). your worken huh, im still a student so im on holidays........its summer hear in Australia and today(one of he unusual days where im not at the beach)its about 38-40 degrees, butiful day. im really angry coz no one will take me to the beach i guess its better than being stuck at work though
Post InfoPosted 09-Jan-2007 12:03Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
RNJ_Punk
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LF,

I have been admiring your apistos.

Are they also known as Double Full Red Cockatoo Cichlid?
If so I put myself on a waiting list so I will know when they get them in...here is the link http://www.liveaquaria.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=1664&emailconf=1664

thanks
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jbe0404
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LF,

Hope everything is going well. It has been a while since the last tank update. I'm sure everything is fine because it is in your hands and you are an aquarium master. Hope to see an update soon.



JBE
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Garofoli
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Wow... This tank is amazing. This thread has been around for several years now. Like since I started at FP. It is a wonderful Tank. How's it treating you now?

Chris
Post InfoPosted 26-Jan-2007 06:19Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
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Sorry folks,

I know it has been quite a while since my last update, but I have been really busy this year (so far). And when I was not working I had other things to do.

Anyway, the tank is doing fine, even with a certain amount of neglect. I even skipped a water change for the first time, and had over one week with no ferts addition. Nevertheless, nothing bad happened. Makes me wonder if all the usual effort may be overdoing it anyway.

So, here is the tank from last night, I think this is now week 70.

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Tank in Week 70



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Post InfoPosted 29-Jan-2007 00:44Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Rob1619
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Thats awsome mate..really nice aquascape and very healthy plants...well done



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Post InfoPosted 29-Jan-2007 15:22Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
slickrb
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Ingo!!

Glad to see you are still hanging in there!

The tank is looking very nice. This last layout you have here as filled in very nicely. I'm glad that this layout has been very resilient with your busy schedule. Hopefully this tank is becoming a little more low maintenance (Well as low maintenance as a high tech tank can get ).

Is there any hope of you returning to a more "Normal" work load? This place has been awful quite lately.


Rick
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Post InfoPosted 29-Jan-2007 16:18Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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Thanks for the input guys,

Is there any hope of you returning to a more "Normal" work load?


That's what I am hoping for, but today is already another day from hell. It only can get better though.

See ya soon,

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 29-Jan-2007 20:10Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
NowherMan6
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Ingo,

Glad to see you around best of luck with work and all!


Back in the saddle!
Post InfoPosted 29-Jan-2007 20:29Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Nice lookin' scape, LF. You should slack more often. How do things look on the small scale?



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Post InfoPosted 30-Jan-2007 00:17Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
AquaClear_Fan
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That is one awesome looking aquarium, hope everything works out well for you.

17 years experience with freshwater.
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Cup_of_Lifenoodles
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Contrary to looking neglected, it actually appears to be, IMO, the best aquascape this tank has supported thus far.
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Thanks everybody for the kind comments, I appreciate it

You should slack more often. How do things look on the small scale?




I guess you are right, slacking seems to be better for my tanks than too much messing around (eh, I guess I should have known that).

Weekly Tank Update - Week 71

I will first show some full shots before I go into some details, although not too much is there to report about.

Here is the full tank this week:

Attached Image:

Week 71



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Post InfoPosted 04-Feb-2007 14:36Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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And here is a look at the main group only:

The only thing that begins to bother me about it is that the mother barteri is even outgrowing this tank and is dominating everything else. I am considering removing it or cutting it up.

Attached Image:

Main Group



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Post InfoPosted 04-Feb-2007 14:38Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Here is the latest addition to the main group, some Pennywort. I always liked that plant and I regretted having thrown it out in one of my changes to the tank. It for sure grows fast though, maybe that was the reason I let it go in the first place, I don't remember:

Attached Image:

Pennywort



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LITTLE_FISH
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The Red Tiger Lotus (Lilly) has grown really strong and has by now a few runners above and below the substrate.

One downer of it is that it grew so much that the Riccia rock is not getting enough light anymore and will need to be moved soon or all will die.

Attached Image:

Red Tiger Lotus



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Post InfoPosted 04-Feb-2007 14:42Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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The Wisteria is now very dense all over and pretty much forms a solid mat with about 2 to 4 inches in height. Here I will have to do some messing around as well, maybe cut off the tops, dispose the bottoms, and replant. We will see.

Attached Image:

Wisteria Carpet



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Another addition to the tank was the Water Lettuce, and that plant is growing fast as well. I kept some duck weed on the surface to see what will happen, but the Water Lettuce seems to suck up all the nutrients before the duck weed can get to it.

For now, I like the hanging roots though.

Attached Image:

Water Lettuce



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Here is a look at the area of the tank that I had a chance to mess with this weekend, the Blyxa.

I removed that mountain effect by taking out the tallest plants (which, btw, were not that tall but floated like 4 inches above the substrate being held in position by the other plants) and placing them closer to the main group, essentially connecting to it.

Attached Image:

Blyxa Group



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Not all is that great in the tank, I am seeing quite a bit of BBA on the exposed parts of the wood. It is not growing very fast and I have it now for a while. Just this weekend I started a small treament with Excel to make sure it stays checked.

Sorry about the bad quality of the shot:

Attached Image:

BBA



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On to some more fish shots, but not too many.

As I rarely get to capture a Pearl up close, here are two shots of the male, you pick which one you like, if any LOL.

Number 1:

Attached Image:

Pearl I



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And here he is again, this time in his more natural level within the water column. I wonder if they like the water lettuce because they can swim trough the roots, but they are up there as often (or little) as before.

I guess they don't care.

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Pearl II



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All fish in the tank seem to be doing well, with the exception of some Espei that I see dying. I never find a body, but all indications are that one or the other is gonna be gone within a few days of observation.

I am not too concerned about it, actually I am not concerned at all. I believe that the dying fish are from my first generation and have reached the end of their life span.

Anyway, here is a shot of the Apisto Couple:

Attached Image:

Viejita II



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Last shot for now, again of the Apisto Couple. I am very glad I got them as they are really beautiful fishes.

Anyway, that's it for now, I hope you liked the pics,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Apisto Pair



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Post InfoPosted 04-Feb-2007 14:58Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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That's a really nice shot of the apisto pair, LF. This tank is also appreciating being left alone I guess. I like the consolidation of the blyxa group, but I think the island could use some consolidation as well. It looks like if it gets much bigger it will take away from the nice effect you've worked towards. I feel like the red tiger lotus is starting to get too big and not make it look like an island at all, but you may be going for that. I think it would look great within the group of plants there somewhere.



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but you may be going for that


Right now, I think I am going for "not too much work"

I was actually thinking about integrating the lotus into the main group, but I haven't found a good spot for it yet. Maybe to the left of the NL fern as I cannot move it close to the mother barteri, the leaves are too equal in size (but not color, so maybe this would be good as well, hm).

Thanks for the input,

Ingo


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tanks looking great, those apistos ar the best. i dont mean to be mean but your male pearl is a shocker. it should be a darker brown with blue spots and a red orange chest and the fins should be hanging behind the caudal fin.

it is a very female looking male, in fact i would have mistaken it for one but i notice the small filaments coming off its fins.
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Another Gender Confusion !!!

I hope that not, as I had this going for a while with my Apistos for the 40G (I don't know if you know that coop).

Although I for sure cannot be certain, I am more convinced that this pearl is a male than I was with my Apistos. I have him, and another one that is a female, since they were very young and can pretty much say that they are of equal age. By now, he (one will hope it's a he) is quite a big taller than the other one, and the fins are for sure longer and more elaborate. For a while, when growing up, he had some oranging of the chest area, a sign for a male. Once he got a little older he lost most of this color. I don't know why, but I assume it has something to do with the fact that my tank is rather unsuited for Pearl breeding as the strong surface current would not permit the building of bubble nest. So - why shine if there is no way to successfully mate? At least that is what I came up with.

Don't worry coop, I would never think that you are mean

And thanks for the compliments on tank and apistos,

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 05-Feb-2007 15:12Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Hey all

Been lurking from time to time, but spending more time at a forum dedicated to aquatic plants. LF I think your group has a thread over there. I've seen another of our group there as well. Much more inspiration to take it to the next level.

Anyway to your tank. The center group still looks great and the plants healthy. As Matty, pointed out the lotus looks weird in the corner. Either you know that and your simply to busy or are more a collector plants and just want to experience them. The Blyxa (which looks much better than mine) also seems to be there just so you can have the plant. Maybe you and Nowher can teach me how to grow Blxya.

I'll probably put a few updated photos of my tank in my log soon. Hope all is well

My Scapes
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Thanks Jeff for the input

Yeah, our group has an account over there, that's right, but I haven't been there in a long time, except to look at pictures of myself

You are most certainly right, quite a few plants in my tank are there because "maybe one day I will use them properly." For example the blyxa - one day I may make that whole left area (or most of it) all blyxa instead of wisteria, but that would be boring as well, I guess

I have no idea why blyxa grows, but I can tell you that most of the stems in that group that have not been moved in a while actually hang onto the substrate just by a thread (aka one small string of root) while the rest is floating. I am actually not too wild about that part, this means that as soon as you somehow mess with the group (like thinning it out and such) you have a bunch of floaters.

Can't wait to see a few new shots of your tank,

Ingo


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Been lurking from time to time, but spending more time at a forum dedicated to aquatic plants. LF I think your group has a thread over there. I've seen another of our group there as well. Much more inspiration to take it to the next level.


That's too bad. For awhile I thought we were actually going to build a nice group of planted tank enthusiasts on this site. 'tis a shame.



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Post InfoPosted 06-Feb-2007 18:53Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
NowherMan6
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Het matty, we're all still around here. I know personally I'm just going through some burnout right now. Also been frustrated in my attempts to start up my 65G tank which I bought 6 months ago so my interest isn't where it would be if I had, ya know, an actual large tank to take care of.

LF, you tank looks great considering the schedule you've been on. It's strange to see you settling on a layout...


Back in the saddle!
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EditedEdited by Wingsdlc
For awhile I thought we were actually going to build a nice group of planted tank enthusiasts on this site.
We really did have a nice group of planted tank enthusiast for quite some time. Couple of years? Tetra and LF's logs well and prove that. It seems though, that the community we have here falls apart without the backbones of LF, Tetra, and Ben. No one on here can seem to match their posting power. Maybe life is just to bussy right now for us all. I know things are still pretty crazy for myself.

It's strange to see you settling on a layout...
Right...I think that LF just doesn't have time to mess with it like he used to. Or maybe he is actualy happy with what he has going on. I know that I am starting to get to that point with my tank.

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Guys,

It is not Doomsday, chill

I am still here, but tank related items had to come a little short when a workweek is somewhere around 80 hours. In my spare free time I has a choice, post here or maintain the tanks. If I don't maintain the tanks then there is nothing to post, except disasters, and I didn't want that to happen.

I am still around though.

Ingo


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Funny, and Scary Short Story:

Every night when I feed the fish in this tank, the larger ones (apistos, pearls, and rainbows) come to the top left corner of the tank where I add the food. The usually very shy pearls allow me to even pet them while they are eating (too greedy to be irritated by my fingers, LOL).

Once in a while, they scare each other during that feeding process, maybe when one of them darts for a flake and another didn't see him/her coming. This concludes in the startled one swimming off really fast.

So, two nights ago during the feeding, one rainbow got so startled that he leaped out of the tank and flew a good 4 feet before he hit the ground

It took me a little bit to realize what has been going on, but the silver shine of the fish during his flight made it easy for me to see his landing spot. I carefully pushed him with one hand into the cradle of the other, and placed him back into the tank. He first sat only on the ground (I couldn't help but draw a parallel to a dove that hit a glass window and sits there all confused), but later his urge to eat was stronger and he continued feeding session. But - always below the top 5 inches of the tank, LOL. I guess he learned his lesson for that day, albeit I am sure he has forgotten all about it by now.

That's it,

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 09-Feb-2007 18:38Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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When I feed at the store the oscars almost always jump out of the water to get the food, sometimes leaping out of the tank. I've gotten use to it now and have grabbed a few mid-flight. We have three verticle shelves of tanks, the fish that jump out of the lowest 2 usually survive. I think 5 feet is about the max drop to a non-cushy floor that a fish can normally take.



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Post InfoPosted 09-Feb-2007 19:36Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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I think 5 feet is about the max drop to a non-cushy floor that a fish can normally take.

And what happens to the fish when it is higher? Is he/she dead right away or dies slowly?

My stand is 28 inches, the tank 24 inches = 52 inches
So, if he didn't jump all that high then he should have fallen about 4.5 feet downwards, plus 4 feet horizontal. Must be a record for a dwarf neon rainbow, I guess

Ingo


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Not much to report for week 72

I did some minor changes only, in particular I removed the oldest baby of the Tiger Lilly as a trade for our plant swapping in the club. I left it with the host for the meeting as I was a week too early in my schedule.

Here is the full tank,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Full Tank - Week 72



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aquapickle27
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The tanks are looking really good, just had a quick question though, do you get your driftwood online?

†Aquapickle†
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Looks good. How about moving the lilly just to the left and front of the NL Fern? Might look nice there as it is a different leaf shape and color.

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Is he/she dead right away or dies slowly?


They usually start spinning spirals. Those weird loops that when on a rollercoaster make you a bit sick....Sometimes they straighten out, sometimes they die pretty quick.

As the lotus stands, it looks much better than before. I like wings' idea, it might look great in front og the NL fern.



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Post InfoPosted 12-Feb-2007 04:56Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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Thanks for the input,

aquapickle27 - This driftwood was once a big trunk like structure, all in one piece. I bought it at EBay and you can read more about it approx. 70 pages earlier in this log (LOL).

Wings and Matty - I am not so sure that moving the Lilly more forward and center is such a good idea. It is a pretty large plant,at least when considering the leaf diameter. I will have to think about it

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 12-Feb-2007 15:32Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
aquapickle27
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Ok, i was just having trouble finding driftwood that i liked. I really like the drift wood you have in your tanks.

Thanks!

†Aquapickle†
Post InfoPosted 13-Feb-2007 00:53Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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aquapickle27,

I had trouble (and still do) finding the right driftwood as well, it takes time and luck to come accross a nice piece (or pieces) that fits your tank dimensions.

I just checked my log, if you want to then you could see how these branches looked like when they were on one trunk on page 48.

Have fun,

Ingo


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aquapickle27,

Check out this site.

http://manzanita.com/

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Weekly Tank Update - Week 73

I had to do a little maintenance on this tank this weekend, some Wisteria needed trimming, all Star Grass needed trimming, so did the Alternanthera and the Pearl Grass. On top of it, I had it with the Riccia, it is just not my thing.

Here is a look at the full tank:

Attached Image:

Tank Week 73



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Here is a closer look at the island group in itself. I arranged the Star Grass and the Alternanthera a little different, not in layers as I had them before. This time, the Alternanthera is forming a small street that reaches the edge in front of the island.

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Island



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If the Star Grass would grow much slower then it would be a truely beautiful plant, at least for me. Here is a look at the new group just a few hours after the water change, that's why it pearls so much.

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Star Grass



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I am glad that I added some Pennywort to the tank again, although it is by now growing so fast that I have to remove one to two stems each week. Half by itself and half with my help it is wrapping nicely around and through the Anubias Barteri plant.

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Pennywort



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Here is a closer look at the Pennywort after the water change. This plant tends to pear nicely, I remember that it was the first one to ever do so in this tank a long time ago.

Attached Image:

Pennywort Again



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And as I usually show shots of my Pearls, Rainbows, and Apistos, today I will show one of the other fish in the tank, beginning with an Oto.

They are probably all still in the tank, although I haven't counted them all (6) since the last layout change a while back.

Attached Image:

Oto



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Last series of shots is commited to my Espei. They are slowly reducing in numbers although I for sure still have about 30 in there.

Here they are in an area where they usually never hang, above the Blyxa on the left side of the tank.

Attached Image:

Espei I



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Here is a closer look at some of them. It is interesting, albeit sad, to see how they age. Once old, they become rather skinny and breath hard. And then, one day they are gone

I have seen this about 6 times so far.

Attached Image:

Espei II



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Here is another group shot over the Blyxa. Note the two Espei on the right of the picture. They are males sparring off the identify the boss. But only the boss of the current fight as I happen to know the real boss of the school personally and these two are not it, LOL.

Attached Image:

Espei III



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Last but not least, this is the real boss. In the current tank layout he occupies the area above the Star Grass. Here, he fends off any other male and flirts with the females. Strategically, this is a great spot for him as the way to the underside of leaves is really short.

That is it for this week,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Espei - The Boss



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Post InfoPosted 19-Feb-2007 14:46Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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EditedEdited by TankWatcher
While it look good before as well, the new "street" is such an improvement. Enjoyed the fish pictures too.

Cheers
TW
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Thanks Robyn,

Glad to see that someone likes the street. Unfortunately it will be short lived as the Star Grass grows way too fast and the look of this area will be changed within a week or two all by itself.

Glad you liked the pictures,

Ingo


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LF,

Nice shots of the tank. It looks like you still have some algea but I would like to find someone without any. Even one of the Amano tanks had GSA in it from a TFH mag.

I like the shots of your Espie. I don't think you have showed them off in quite some time. I went over to some one of my customers/friends house last night. They had some H. Rasboras that looked quite nice too. Much nicer than my Briliant Rasboras.



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Thanks Wings for the compliments/comments

Yeah, I once in a while have some BBA issues, and some green hard spots on the glass, but nothing that concerns me at all. One week of Excel takes care of any major BBA and the green spot can be scraped off.

Ingo


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Weekly Tank Update - Week 74

Nothing much happened to the tank during the week. I guess the one thing worthwhile mentioning is that I reduced my dosing. Not by amount but in frequency. I only dose now twice a week. I do this since about a month and haven't seen an issue yet, but I think it would be too early to assume all will be well with this schedule.

Here is the full tank this weekend:

Attached Image:

Week 74



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Post InfoPosted 25-Feb-2007 18:25Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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The one major trimming I did this weekend was to start the replanting process of the wisteria. Wow, I greatly underestimated how long this would take. All I did was to remove all wisteria in the area shown below, trim off old bottom parts and low leaves on the new clippings, and then I replanted them. It took me over one hour to do so.

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Trimmed Wisteria Area



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Hey,

did you see the male Apisto in the last shot? Well, here he is again, a little burry, in front of the center group and flashing to his girl. I like when they do that:

Attached Image:

Center with Fish



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The next two shots are all about the male Apisto showing him in two modes.

First off, this shot was taken right after he flashed to his girl, but she took off in the meantime. Take a look at his face:

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Male I



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And this shot was taken a short while later. As you can see, the bar under his eye is much more dominant than it was in the last shot. This is his "stay away from me" mode. Most Apisto people knew that, but hey, maybe someone not so firm on this fish may be peeking into this log as well.

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Male II



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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
Already here comes the last shot. It shows the Blyxa group on the left side of the tank. This plant is such a floater

The sole reason why there are a few plants that look taller than the others is because they become loose and float upwards, just to be hold back by either other plants or one or two tiny roots that still stick in the substrate.

Anyway, that's it,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:



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Looks good Ingo. Everything's looking healthy. I'm still waiting for you to move the lotus

That's funny I recently uprooted all my wisteria, but only did one side and it took me a few hours only because I did it very slowly and keep removing water as things got stirred up. Only had to do this every 6 months or so, depending on how high you want the wisteria to grow. If you want it really low like a carpet you might have to do it more often, but mine sort of acts as the side of a mound so I can accomodate the height for longer periods of time.

Sounds like you have the same issue with the blyxa that I do. A small root system so the plant has a tendency to float up. I'm gonna try putting some root tabs right under the blyxa and see if it helps develop a bigger root system. I believe the ADA substrate works better in this regard, as I think nowher can atest to.

Nice apisto shots!

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I'm still waiting for you to move the lotus




Well, I am holding back with this effort so I have you come into the thread more often and check if I finally have moved it

Yeah, the wisteria replant is time intensive. I had to redo mine because I used a lot of tops as plantlings for the 20 and the 29 over time. The new growth looked funny with the strong main stems and then the thin new tops coming out of it.

Root tabs sounds good, just this morning I was considering to order a few for some of my plants, Blyxa being the main one. Any particular brand in mind there, tetratech? I am thinking Seachem Flourish Tabs.

Ingo


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Well, I am holding back with this effort so I have you come into the thread more often and check if I finally have moved it



Boy this is like old times. Unfortunately nowher is nowhere, matty is probably around somewhere and bensaf, well you know that bensaf. Anyway as far as the tabs, yes I'm using the flourish ones, I just put them in so well see, I think nowher also thought those were the ones to get.

Switching gears, I just saw the pics from your meeting. That's very impressive with the dosing computer, etc. Looks nice. I was looking at the setup that was a tek T5HO light right? That substrate separater was that also from ADA. I'm not sure how there going to keep the two substrates separate. Definitely no bottom dwellers and especially no kuli loaches. The loaches go through all the rock crevices and tend to mix the substrates, but even without them I would thing the substrates will still mix with too much current or water change situations.

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Yeah tetratech,

Just like the old days, kind of at least

Anyway, yes - this guy's tank is truely high tech, from automatic water changer (10% daily) over automatic fertilizer addition to ADA stuff (including the tank itself), he has it all. Very very impressive!

So far, his tank looks really good, it is planted now (not final of course) and we will soon see how the separation of sand/soil will hold up. You may not have noticed it, but there is a line of rocks on the border between the substrate types.

Hey - did you see the last shot at the event review? I assume you have figured out who's hand that is there in the tank

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You know I didn't notice the last shot with the hand. Tough to miss the orange sweater from the shot before and make the connection. Yeah I saw the rocks, but it doesn't take much to mix it. There are always little crevices, etc. So 'bout the lights are the Tek T5HO?

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From his log:

Teklight T5 4x54W

Whatever that means

Ingo


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I'm always somewhere tetratech. Things are just getting busy as I'm finally wrapping up my college years.

Teklights are very nice fixtures, though I would say that they might in fact be too much for most planted tanks, as they are more than plenty for most reef tanks. Since I switched out my icecap ballast, I now have a kind of DIY tek fixture on my reef tank as I'm using the same ballasts. I like



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Post InfoPosted 26-Feb-2007 04:33Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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Glad you still around. Congrats on the college thing. One chapter closes and another begins.

From what I'm hearing planted enthusiasts are using the tek T5HO lights because they have the power to be suspended above the tank and still penerate the WC very well. Any thoughts on that?



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They look pretty darn sweet too!!!

55G Planted tank thread
19G Container Pond
[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
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IMO they will penetrate a little better than most other tube style lights because of the better reflectors. More light simply enters into the tank. It's the trade off of a consistent spread of light(uniformity), that penetration suffers. If penetrance(I'm making up words here, bear with me) is desired, a focused single source type of light should be used instead....like a metal halide. Pendant styles are very common here for a good reason.

OTOH you can suspend any light fixture you want with a drill and some wire, and if bright enough it will penetrate just fine. So I think the fact of the matter is just that they are bright enough and compact/light enough to raise off the tank a bit. Still, my choice for an open top aquarium would probably be a halide for convenience and expense. If quality of light is a concern, T5HO are a little better IMO than halides.



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OTOH you can suspend any light fixture you want with a drill and some wire, and if bright enough it will penetrate just fine. So I think the fact of the matter is just that they are bright enough and compact/light enough to raise off the tank a bit. Still, my choice for an open top aquarium would probably be a halide for convenience and expense. If quality of light is a concern, T5HO are a little better IMO than halides.
As you probably know I'm not exactly Mr. DIY. So if I want a suspending light over a 60cm what would you recommend that's reasonable. I see the T5HO 24" Sunlight is like $250 plus the hanging equip. I could probably get a better deal on a single 150 MH. Two feet would probably be mix width for one MH bulb, correct. My apologized to LF, but I think he's cool with this.

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Yes and no on the 2ft per halide bulb. First, the rule was created for much higher light requiring organisms...corals. I think that it could be stretched to 3-4ft with a very interesting lighting effect and a thought out selection and placement of plants. It also depends how high off the surface you have the pendant. Think of a flashlight here. Obviously it won't be as bright as high up, and there will be more light spray outside the aquarium(this may be a good thing for emersed growth?), but more of your aquarium will be lit, and light levels can be adjusted with a higher wattage system (a 450w bulb could be several feet off the aquarium and light the aquarium and houseplants around it). Also the shape of the pendant will have an effect - round vs. square/rectangle.

I agree that you could probably find a better deal on a halide setup if you keep your eyes open. Also used halide setups are more abundant, as they are older technology. Lightly used halide setups can be found pretty cheaply on the reef forums....that would be the route I'd go as I'm a poor college kid.

I'd say it would all depend on what affect you wanted as to what system you should get.

And sorry to Ingo for thread hijacking.



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Hey,

No being sorry needed for this discussion, I am thinking about lights in general as well.

My concern is more with my 40G than this one though, but we can talk about it here as the pre-cursor is already in place.

The problem I see with MH or PC lights is its limited angled spread. Doesn't make sense I guess, so I try to explain:

As you know, I have a single 96W PC fixture over my 40G. Logically, it is in the middle of the tank. Giving the tree tops of the Bolbitis and NL Java Fern groups, many plants on the sides that are lower are beginning to be severely shaded. If I had a light that has less wattage by bulb and had more bulbs to make up the difference then I could have light shining in even on the plants at the sides. That's where I find the T5s come in handy.

The Tek Light is 11" wide, with a tank width of 18". If I primarily would have the outer lights on and turn on the center ones at "Midday" then I should get a better spread.

Or shouldn't I?

Ingo


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Though you won't believe me until you see it for yourself, T5HO bulbs may be less wattage, but put out more light. LF, a 4X39w setup would be more light output than a 2X96w PC fixture, probably more like a 3-4X96w PC fixture.

It won't be like your analogy of less wattage more spread. You'll get more spread, but you'll be at least tripling your light output at the midday 4 bulb peak. People who haven't used the T5s are still underestimating them, I know I did. This is just so you don't jump in unprepared, I know you could handle the extra light cause you have the CO2 and plant mass, not to mention the experience.

If you want less wattage bulbs with more spread I think you'd be limited to NO fluorescent bulbs, say 4 30w bulbs, or you could just tack on another NO fixture to what you have now.



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Interesting info. Not all T5 are created equal, right. Your talking specifically T5HO right. Also the T5HO lights like TEK that have 4 bulbs across are wider than the 2x96 CF lights and thus look better when hung, right?

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EditedEdited by FRANK
Hi,
I guess the problems I have with the metal halide lighting
are these:
The tank must be open, so you run the risk of dried fish
on the floor.
The pendant lights, at the normal height above a tank give
about a 2 foot "footprint" of light. This means that a long
tank would require more than one pendant.
They are heavy and must be secured into joists/studs,
and frequently the support is not located over the tank.
That requires an additional cross member that could disrupt
the "flow" of the ceiling and room.
metal halide lights give off a large amount of heat and
cumulatively, can affect the room temperature.

Use caution when purchasing the lamp and bulb. Most of the
time metal halide lamps are used for saltwater reef tanks
and come with very high "K" rating bulbs 20,000+.

Here is a site on aquarium lighting specifically the metal
halide bulbs, but along the left hand side are links to
the other lighting systems and their characteristics.

http://www.aquarium-lighting-guide.com/metal-halide-ansi

Frank


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Post InfoPosted 27-Feb-2007 18:01Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Tetratech, the important thing to get with your T5HO are the individual parabolic reflectors. Use a single reflector over the group of bulbs and your lights are now no better than any other HO bulb. They would be equivalent to PC or VHOs without the individual parabolic reflectors. I know tek lights have these, and the housing is VERY sleek. A definite bonus. I think they would look good hung...I think they would look good, period . And yes I think the light spread is wider, but also better deflected downwards due to the better reflectors, so I think moving them off the surface would look better as far as light spread goes too.

Also there are the icecap systems. The icecap ballast pushes the bulbs even harder than those found in other systems. I think it's referred to as ODHO. In conjunction with the icecap individual parabolic reflectors, these systems are brighter than the sun . I fried my corals with it. I'd only recommend these for deep tanks with very high light requiring organisms, and fish with sunglasses.

So all T5HO systems are not created equal. I think the Current fixture has a single reflector and normal HO ballasts. The Tek lights have individual parabolic reflectors and normal HO ballasts, and the icecaps have individual parabolic reflectors and ODHO ballasts.



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Glad we have that discussion as it most certainly put some doubts on me having a Tek Light over the 40G

The double unit of 96W from Coralife may not work for me, except if I could hang that one as well (I am not sure if I would have to do some DIY contraption for that, yuk).

I will investigate, but feel free to advise.

On a side note, I skimmed through my log yesterday in search of a shot from my Macandra and noted that somewhere in the middle pages (between 50 and 70, I think) all my images are missing. Given that I embedded them in the posts and that they are hosted by FP I am not a happy camper.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 28-Feb-2007 15:03Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Frank,
Thanks for the info and link. That should be really helpful. It is a pain and your right about the the hanging issues. As far as the fish jumping out, you know us planted tank folk, we always put the plants ahead of the fish. I actually had tetras, cichlids and kuli loaches and shrimp in an open-top and never lost one to jumping in about a year, but certainly some fish will jump so you need to keep away from those.

Matty,
I'm definitely going for looks so as I said I think the Tek lights look good suspended vs the coralife's which as you pointed out can be suspended by simply cutting a hole in the top and using wire. I will never buy another Current USA product. I had one hood the ballast went just outside of a year and the company had really poor service. The 192watt reflector also had 4 plugs (2 for the bulbs and 2 for separate fans (that BTW were noisy from the getgo) If Teks are the BMWs and Coralifes are the Toyotas than Current USA are the Chevys (no offense Chevy owners)

LF,
Why wouldn't those lights (tek and coralife work for your 40g). Sorry must have missed something. I hope your pictures aren't lost.


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Post InfoPosted 28-Feb-2007 16:58Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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EditedEdited by mattyboombatty
I'm pretty sure that coralife has a hanging kit. All their fixtures should attach to it.

About the pics...I'd post something up in the site feedback forum, Adam might be able to recover those. Bummer though. That's why I use photobucket AND backup everything on my hard drive, I now have like 3-4gigs of pictures. I think that happened to me on a site upgrade one time.


EDIT:didn't see your post tetratech, I think LF didn't want something a lot brighter, like the tek lights will be. I said I thought he'd be able to handle it though, he's got the equipment. I wish they made 3 bulb units, each independant, but that would require 3 ballasts and be extra pricey. Just having a three bulb fixture at all would be nice I think.



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Post InfoPosted 28-Feb-2007 17:01Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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I checked into the coralife hanging situation. They do sell a hanging kit, unforunately it only works with the pro and plus lights not the regular or deluxe ones.



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Post InfoPosted 28-Feb-2007 17:11Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Oh, I see how it is. *shakes fish at coralife* Well I guess that leaves my drill and wire method.



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Post InfoPosted 28-Feb-2007 17:18Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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Oh, I see how it is. *shakes fish at coralife* Well I guess that leaves my drill and wire method



As far as the Tek lights for LF, he could run 2 or 4 bulbs with the timers, so I think he'd be already if he wanted that look. He could always play around with the wattage.

Matty, do you know if you can stick a coralife fixture inside one of these or would you have to order the kit from AH supply. I'm thinking you could put the light in one of these and hang the canopy over the tank.

http://www.ahsupply.com/finished_enclosures.htm

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Post InfoPosted 28-Feb-2007 17:24Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Most likely the coralife unit won't fit under there. They do give the exact dimensions though, so you could measure. But I know usually the coralife unit slips over the edge of the aquarium to prevent it sliding off one way or the other. And I think those sit on the tank edge.

The ones that all glass sell are held up by little studs in the corner and have a small gap between the tank and the hood. The coralife units fit uner those pretty well. Although the back is open, so it wouldn't work for LF's two-view tank. Might work out for you though. They are pretty similarly priced I think.



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Post InfoPosted 28-Feb-2007 17:46Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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Weekly Tank Update - Week 75

Not much has changed during the week with the tank, I am continuing the trimming process of the Wisteria and this week removed and replanted the section in front of the island.

Here is a shot of the tank in Week 60, 15 weeks ago, the first week with the Wisteria in place all around.

Attached Image:

Week 60



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Post InfoPosted 04-Mar-2007 13:53Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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And here is the tank now this weekend, 15 weeks later, after the trimming.

As you can see, the Barteri and the NL Java Fern have grown like mad. The Barteri in particular is reaching a point where I don't know how much longer I can maintain it as such. I may have to cut it up and replant only half of it.

Attached Image:

Now - Week 75



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Otherwise, I have only one more picture to show. Around this time of the year there is a brief time period in the mornings when, given that the sun is shining, some light falls through the window (after bouncing off the neighbor's window) and into the tank. I think it looks pretty nice. It all lasts for maybe 10 min.

That's it,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Morning Mood



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You're right, that morning shoot is pretty cool looking.

Your layout is at one and the same time, both lush, healthy & full looking as well as making the tank look large and open. Your fish enjoy the best of both worlds - plants to swim around in as well as lots of open space for swimming around.

You have Lucky Fish, LF

Cheers
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Thanks Robyn for the compliments

Yeah, overall no doubt on this being my best layout in this tank's history, and the most stable on top of it.

Ingo


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Interesting to note that those stems are headed straight for that beam of sunlight. I've been learning about the proteins that cause plants to grow towards the light. Pretty interesting stuff. However, with how short the phenomena is, I doubt that's the cause of the plants growing that direction.


It's great to have that problem with slow growers like barteri and j fern. I'd personally just hack out a few leaves on the barteri every week or two to maintain its size, as right now it's rather pleasing.



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I'd personally just hack out a few leaves on the barteri every week or two to maintain its size

Hm, I will have to think about this as an option. See, the mother plant has quite a few rhizomes growing all over the place, including one half way up in the water column. This means that leaves from that rhizome will always come up very high in the tank, not so pretty when the leaves from the lower rhizomes would be trimmed off.

Ingo


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Yeah, you may have to cut back adventurous rhizomes too then. But hopefully you won't have to rip the sucker out.



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Just wanted to say the tank looks great, Ingo. I don't post comments in this area often as my knowledge is limited in the planted realm, but I pretty much read all of the posts when they are made.

Jim



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Thanks Jim,

Feel free to post any comment you have, and don't be shy about it. If you have a question about the tank then feel free to state it as well. And who says that my knowledge is not limited?

Ingo


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Weekly Tank Update - Week 76

Well, doesn't look like I did a lot this weekend, but I did quite a bit.

During the week, half the Blyxa floated up. So I removed any Wisteria that used to be planted behind the Blyxa and stuffed all pieces of Blyxa in this extended area.

Overall, the tank is not doing too well. Neglect in ferting is probably the reason why the Star Grass is not growing that well, although it looks nice in the picture. And the Barteri is getting bigger and bigger, that cannot go well much longer. Let me tell you folks, if you have a barteri like this one you better have a 200G tank if you want to keep it for a few years

That's it,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Tank Today



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Let me tell you folks, if you have a barteri like this one you better have a 200G tank if you want to keep it for a few years
I think a lot of plants can get that way if you give them what they want and need!

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Weekly Tank Update - Week 77

Not done anything to the tank during the week except for the 2 x dosing routine. I think the Star Grass does not like the reduction.

But I noticed yesterday that the tank looked a little more yellowish that I believe to remember how it looked in the past. This was during high-light time, so I thought that maybe the 5,000K bulbs are at the end of their usefulness. So, this morning I replaced them with 10,000K bulbs that I had since I set up the tank and never used.

What a difference in color of the tank. Soooooo much more blue compared to the green before.

Here it is at full light, with all the 6,700 and 10,000 turned on, compare it to the picture above from last week.

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Week 77



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Here is the male Pearl during the water change, a phase in which I only have the midday lights on, meaning the 10,000K as of today:

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Pearl



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And here is a shot of the center of the tank, with the Apistos firting and the Espei looking on.

With regards to plants in the shot, the Star Grass is not doing to well, the Pennywort is doing too well, and the Barteri is still a giant,

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Tank Scene



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Last shot for this series, the Pearls and some of the Rainbows during the water change.

I wonder what they are looking at, or what they are thinking (if anything) while looking at me with that camera, LOL.

That's it,

Have fun,

Ingo

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Rainbow Pearls



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The color looks a lot more realistic IMO with that 10,000K on there. That's the mix I have on my tank, one 6700 and one 10000. I really like that combination, though I am used to the actinic/10000K that I use on the SW tank. That tank looks white to me, and the planted tank looks a little yellow, but I s'pose that's the way it's supposed to be, right?

Nice clear pics BTW. love the shot of the apistos and espei.



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Actually,

Let me add this zoom of the female Pearl from the last shot, it is rare that I get them in such a nice angle. I think she is looking right at me

Ingo

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Female Pearl



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Ah Matty,

Only now do I see your input, thank you very much. Yeah, I must have gotten lucky on these shots, or maybe the light made a difference as well. BTW, none of the shots were taken with the zoom lense.

Thanks,

Ingo


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Looks good Ingo. Looking at the pic, how 'bout bringing the Blyxa more to the midground, breaking up the fern on the right and putting it where the Blyxa was. Add some wood into the giant Anubias area for constrast. It looks very good as is, just throwing some ideas out there from where I'm sitting. The pic of the tank scene is really nice.

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I wonder what they are looking at, or what they are thinking (if anything) while looking at me with that camera, LOL.



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I think she honestly likes me , it is not all about food

Tetratech - I think I have to part at least with some of the Barteri as it has reached its maximum size tolerable for this tank layout. I could certainly convert the tank in an Anubias only tank, but that is not my intention.

Once cut up I think I can see better what and how I can make the island more appealing.

Thanks,

Ingo


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Weekly Tank Update - Week 78

This weeks update is earlier than usual as I took yesterday off from work so I have enough time to work on the Barteri.

And so I did , for better or worse. I needed the wife to help me with getting the huge plant out, then I trimmed off all bad leaves and cut the sucker up into about 10 pieces.

Here is the tank last night:

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Tank After Trim



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I also trimmed the Star Grass and some of the Alternanthera. In addition, I added some small stems of Hygro back into the tank, they may or may not stay, I don't know yet.

Here is a look at the new Barteri group (as now they are more than one plant I assume it is a group):

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Barteri



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And - because I was done earlier than I expected I decided to stop by the LFS and see if they have something of interest.

This is what I found:

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Cories



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I don't know in which tank I will eventually place them, for now they are of course in the QT.

Maybe I keep them in there for a while (like a few months) or as long as I don't get any other fish for QT.

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Cory I



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These cories have been labeled Corydoras julii - does anyone believe they are of a different species? I know quite a few cories look rather similar, so speak up.

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Cory II



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I saw them in the LFS in a tank further up. Out of the 10 or so that were in there 3 were active and the rest was hanging out in a corner.

I think the sales lady and I managed to get the active ones, but because 3 is not enough I asked for one of the lazy bums as well.

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Cory III



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So - since adding them late yesterday afternoon I mostly see 3 of them perusing the tank, usually as a team (that's what I was going for). But the 4th one is mostly hanging out and only once joined in.

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Cory IV



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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
For most fish I would take this as not so good of a sign, but I will give it a few days to see if he/she perks up.

BTW, I am not referring to any specific fish in any of these pictures, they all still look alike to me, with one exception as one of them has a slightly different dorsal fin marking (can be seen in the pic above where they are in the bag).

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Cory V



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Last but not least,

The only shot so far that I got with more than one of them in the pic and at least half way in focus

I guess the macro lens will not do it for such kind of shots.

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Cory VI



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Hi Ingo,
I think I'd be concerned about the "lazy bum" one. They
should be swimming, as a group, all over that new tank
investigating and looking for food. If the one is just
hanging out, I would suspect some illness.

Frank


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I think you are right Frank, and I am concerned.

I will give him one more day to "catch up" with the other ones. This morning he is still not swimming, actually he is breathing harder than yesterday.

I am not into treatment, so I may have to take action sooner than I thought.

I should have listened to my instincts in only getting the swimmers, but then I was worried that the FPlers will jump down my throat because I was not getting enough of them.

Ingo


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I was worried that the FPlers will jump down my throat because I was not getting enough of them.


Instead it will be because apparently julii cories don't exist from what I've read, not in the states anyways. I THINK they(the cory people) always say that what you are buying is the trilineatus or something like that. I'm not much of a cory guy though. Do a search on julii cories in the bottom feeders forum and you'll see what I mean.

I like the hacked down version of the anubias barterii. Looks great with the wood poking through again.



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Ah, here's a link for ya with a little back and forth on the subject. I'm not sure why it's necessary to argue the point. The two species are so nearly identical that dissection would probably be needed to tell two apart. Honestly, those that say they aren't can't be sure they aren't either. It's like a lot of the saltwater coral arguments.



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They definately look more like C. Trilineatus to me. I have a group of five of them. I like them alot and they are freindly to my panda shoal. They are alot hardier than my pandas also. I think you will enjoy them.
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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
Thanks Matty for the comments on the tank and the info on the Julii. Yeah, I don't care either what Cory mine are, as long as they look nice and don't cost me a fortune.

About 5 min ago I removed the lazy one, he didn't make it. He must have died within the last 2 hours or so as that was the last time I checked on them. He seemed to display some reddish streaks internally on the left side, mid-body, only.

So, down to 3 now, but they are party boys

Ingo

EDIT: Thanks PP as well, must have added your entry while I was typing


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Sorry about the loss, Ingo. I've come to trust my gut whenever selecting a fish for myself or a customer. My mind will notice something I can't point out about the behavior or look of a fish at the store and 9 times out of 10 I'll be pulling it out later in the day. Most of the customers I frequently wait on have come to trust my gut too .



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Thanks Matty,

Yeah - should have trusted my guts as well I guess. I am kind of glad that I trusted them (the guts) when I did NOT buy the male Cac Double Orange that they had in a tank as well. He was at least twice the size of mine (the addict, that is) and would have made an end to the bubble eater in no time.

So, back to the cories, now I am worried whenever I see one just sitting on the substrate as I assume he/she is the next to go. This happened last night, but after feeding I saw all 3 digging for food, good.

Ingo


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EditedEdited by tetratech
I know what you guys mean about the "gut" thing. After a while you just know. I've had mixed success with Corys even though some say they are the easiest to keep. For a while I couldn't keep any alive, but I blamed that on the corrupted eco with all of this word po4 levels. I'm sure for corys that was a nightmare. I did have one live at least 18 months, but even that's not that long. Interesting during the last water change I found 6 otos and 6 amanos. The otos have been in there a really long time.

Just goes to show you everyone's tanks are different for fish and plants.

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I actually was scared of getting Cories a while back as I heard that they should always be added to a settled tank (as they don't show signs of illness that quickly).

Well, this morning the three remaining ones are doing fine, at least that's what it looks like.

I will add a few entries to the 20G QT log with new pictures of the tank.

Ingo


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EditedEdited by TankWatcher
The tank looks good after the trim. Much nicer (not that it the "before" wasn't nice). You've good a good shape going there at the moment.

I like the corys. I have sterbais, but whatever yours are, they are much prettier.

I've had pretty good luck with my sterbais & I hope you do too. I have quite a bunch in mine, but despite what I was told, they don't all hang out together, even though they are all the same breed. They hang out in sub groups & sometimes singularly. As they all look alike, I can't tell if the sub group combination is a constant or if they chop & change.

Sorry for the loss of one poor guy

Cheers
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Thanks Robyn for the compliments on the tank and the fishies. I don't think that sterbais look worse than juliis (false ones, ), they have a very similar appearance.

Ingo


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Nice corys LF They'll be a good addition to your tank.

I've had similar experiences with seeing inactive fish in LFS tanks. But I do applaud you for trying to keep them in a big enough school. Keep an eye out for them whenever you go to the LFS, maybe you can eventually build the school up to 8-10 healthy individuals. Then they'd be in full frat house mode






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Thanks NowherMan6,

Yeah, if the 3 that I have pull through just fine then I may add a few more, time will tell.

Strange thing is, I checked the one of my catalogs (the Dr's) this weekend and saw this fish offered for $8. Given that my LFS (AF) is usually way overpriced, I have to consider that they sold me a "bad" batch, as they charged me only $5 a fish.

Ingo


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Strange thing is, I checked the one of my catalogs (the Dr's) this weekend and saw this fish offered for $8. Given that my LFS (AF) is usually way overpriced, I have to consider that they sold me a "bad" batch, as they charged me only $5 a fish.
Not always the case. Sometimes the deals get passed on. I know thats how its works with my store at times.

Very nice fish by the way. I used to keep corries but its beena while. I never had problems with them. Cute fish. I think I like Loaches better though.

http://badmanstropicalfish.com/profiles/sidn1.jpg

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Nah Wings,

Nothing is cheap in that LFS without a reason, and passing on rebates is not a known entity there.

That loach in your link is nice, a Chain Loach? Do you have them (as I assume one would buy a school)?

Ingo


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Looks like a monkey loach to me. Small, active, and expensive loaches. And yes, I'd get at least a few of them.



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I do not have them. We have them at my store but I can't really buy anything right now. I graduate in a month and may or may not be moving to who knows where. Someday I would like to have a nice group of them though.

The ones at the store are called Monkey botia's but I think they go by many different common names. Right now I think they are going for about 8 bucks.

Loaches do, do best in groups. Quite social creatures.



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Weekly Tank Update - Week 79

Not much to report about this tank, all thoughts are with the 20QT which seems to have caught an illness, 2 fish dead this week and 2 more suffering (see log).

About this tank here: I cleaned the 2028 filter this weekend, haven't done this in quite a while (at least 2 to 3 months ago was the last time).

Otherwise, I found the 5th Nana Petite (buried under some Pearl Grass) and put it in the 20QT (before I started to panik about the tank).

Here is the tank this weekend,

That's it,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 79



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Weekly Tank Update - Week 80

Just like in the log for the 40G, here is a quick summary of the tank development over time, in this case in 20 week intervals from the start.

Here is the tank after setup:

Attached Image:

Week 0



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20 weeks later, there was quite some growth, wood had been added, rocks had been moved, plants had been moved, algae had come and gone and come again, in short - one may call this the Dark Ages of this tank

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Week 20



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By week 40, the Dark Ages became very dark, the tank was in its least organized stage. Things were going ok, but nothing great was happening. I believe that at least 3 Ingo-Style makeovers had happend at that stage already.

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Week 40



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By week 60, the tank had reached its current layout, I can't believe it was that long ago that I had the last make-over. I would like you to look at the Narrow Leaf Java Fern and then compare it with the next shot after this one.

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Week 60



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Now here is a shot from this weekend, week 80.

As you can see, the few strands of Fern have turned into a solid bush, even after I trimmed quite a few pieces off to propagate in the 40 and 29 (and trade at the NJAGC).

The Barteri also had to be trimmed (last week) and cut into various pieces, only now do I notice that the group is actually wider than it was before. Also, I notice that the tall Alternanthera stems could use a trim.

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Tank Now



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Here are a few detail shots of the tank, not too many, I promise:

Beginning with the Blyxa - This plant is a blessing and a monster at the same time. It looks very nice as a group, if it stays down. My gravel substrate is not very good for holding the plants down, and every week I have to stick about 10 to 15 of them back into the ground. There is almost never a day when I don't have to do this.

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Blyxa



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Here is a look at the center of the center. The Star Grass is not doing too great, although this doesn't show itself too well in the pictures.

You may note the re-occurance of Hygro, I saved some from the 20G when I redid that tank and planted it back into this one (where it originally came from). I know I cannot really maintain this plant in here as it is too close in shape (and color) to the Fern.

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Center



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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
The fern in itself has become the main hang-out place for the Espei, or the area around it to be more percise. At nighttime I see some Rainbows and a Pearl "sleeping" amongst the leaves, seems like the fish appreciate its protecive nature.

It is due for a trim though.

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Fern



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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH

PLEASE LOOK AT THE PREVIOUS PAGE FOR FULL TANK SHOTS OVER THE LAST 80 WEEKS AND MORE DETAIL SHOTS

Here is a look at my diffuser, based on a comment I made in tetratech's log. As I noted there, last week I gave it the first bleach bath in quite a few months. I haven't had the plate this shiny in a looooooong time.


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Diffuser



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The last shot for now shows you the most colorful of the fish in the tank, the male Apisto. He is swimming on the left side of the tank where I have the most intense bubble collection from the diffuser. All bubbles in this shot are CO2 as it has been taken before the water change and I only see O bubbles right after the water change (with the exception of the NL Fern that bubbles in the evening).

That's it for now,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Apisto in CO2



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The tank looks very good. Are you planning any changes soon?

Beginning with the Blyxa - This plant is a blessing and a monster at the same time. It looks very nice as a group, if it stays down


Very jealous of your Blyxa even if it does float up. This is one of those plants that simply doesn't grow in my tank. I think it actually looked better under my previous lighting system 2x96 instead of 4 x 65.

Stargrass - Didn't you say you were dosing less these days, I think that will show in stargrass very quickly.

Diffusor - I'm gonna start trying your excel idea I always forget at water change. Are you lighting the end of tubing to secure it to the diffusor? What's with the rubberband?

Is there any algae issues at all these days.



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Post InfoPosted 08-Apr-2007 15:37Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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I was going to ask about the algae too, but I assume we'd hear about it, so I would guess things are going well.

Nice little recap LF. It's always interesting to go back and look at how you got here. That fern definitely does need trimming. I guess I would say I liked the compactness more around week 60 than 80. This week just didn't look much like and island anymore. I dunno where you are going with it though.

I was looking back to the beginning of my 50G. Oh, you guys were so very against the fishless cycle, especially bensaf. It worked out really well IMO. I never saw any real amounts of algae.



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Didn't you say you were dosing less these days, I think that will show in stargrass very quickly

I have thought about that, as around the time when I reduced to two doses per week the decline started. But I think I can handle the tank without it, if need be.

Are you lighting the end of tubing to secure it to the diffusor? What's with the rubberband?

That is only to hold the hose in place, and the rubberband is to attach the not-so-well fitting Air Tube suction cup to the diffuser, it previously always fell off.

Is there any algae issues at all these days

None in particular, there is a little hair stuff on the wood and old anubias leaves, once in a while a little BBA (spot treatment once kills it right off), and some green spot on the glass.

It worked out really well IMO

- Good for you. Oh wait, is that the tank where loads of the fish died?

Ingo


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Yeah, loads of fish died...during a prolonged interval starting more than a month after I put them in the tank. I'd think they would have died sooner if they had a problem with the cycle.



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i know this is a thread for people unlike me but i have to say i wish my plant was as nice as all of yours! ive been having trouble starting with my plants any ways goood job with the aquarium!!!!!

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i know this is a thread for people unlike me



No platy boy, this is a thread for everybody. If you read through the massive amount of info in the last 130 pages you will see quite a few sections where this tank and its plants didn't do all that well (based on my impact, while learning).

Anyway - All,

Sorry for not posting in a while, I had replaced the viewing of my tanks with a more Amano like landscape as can be seen below. Tank updates will follow sometime later

Ingo

Attached Image:

Iwagumawuma



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Weekly Tank Update - Week 82

There was no update last weekend as I went on vacation (see above). Just like with the 40G, I did not do a water change this weekend either as I will do one later in the week to prepare for the next Club meeting at my place the coming Saturday.

Seems like all fish are well, but when I came home there were maybe 20 Blyxa stems floating around the tank. They sure stick lousy in gravel

Here is the tank this weekend (after putting all the Blyxa back in),

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 82



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I came home from work today ad half mine had come up. I dunno what's up with that. They just don't seem to root at all. Mine are turning a bit red, so they may be worth it in the end.

The tank is looking very healthy, very nice.



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i would just like to say your tank looks awesome and tommorrow on my day off im gonna have a look throughthe whole thread from start to finish to see how it all came about!
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fandan,

Thanks a lot, I appreciate it. I noticed that for whatever reason there seem to be some images missing around page 50 or so, but the text is all there (with some minor issues in the beginning as it was written in our old site and certain characters did not carry over into the new one).

Take you time with reading all of this, and enjoy the lighter notes of the Plant Crazies ().


Matty,

As I mentioned in the 40G log, the red also seem to mean less vertical growth. I am not so sure if I like it that much, it almost looks stunted

Ingo


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I have only had my blyxa for a couple of weeks now. I reallyl havenet had any floating issues.

Do you happen to have any close ups of how this spreads? Does it just get bushy?

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Post InfoPosted 25-Apr-2007 23:57Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
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Hope your holiday was fun

I've been lucky too, with non floating blyxa. LF, this tank doesn't have Eco Complete, does it? Do you have the same issue in 40G breeder, which I think does have the Eco?

Cheers
TW
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No Wings, I don't have a close-up right now. My Blyxa spreads by growing multiple stems (branches) on one base stem. These stems have no roots, of course, and when one of the bigger ones comes out then replanting it often means that the branch breaks off. So - on I go and replant the two sections seperately, which causes the float (mostly).

Robyn, to my regret, this tank has plain gravel (with Laterite in bottom part) and not EC. But that is more for looks than the Blyxa. It does not do too well in my 40G either anymore and I believe this started with my light changes there. Some is floating up while others don't grow as fast as they used to. What can I say, Blyxa does not seem to be my fortune, or I have to use the weights on each stem in the future (and I have about 20 to 30 stems in this tank).

Ingo


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Thanks for the blyxa info LF. Right after saying that I haven't had any float ups... I saw one in my tank this morning. It can stay there until I do my water change....

So far it hasn't been too bad for me. I got most of the blyxa with a good set of roots. It think that helps matters.

BTW!
I have new pictures!!!!

55G Planted tank thread
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Weekly Tank Update - Week 83

Not too much to report about this tank, the blyxa keeps on floating up and all attempts to settle it conclude in smaller and smaller stems.

I told the gang at yesterday's NJAGC meeting that I begin to be bored with the tank layout, I think nothing much has changed in about 6 months now, like 27 weeks straight with the same concept. Maybe it is time for a change soon.

Here is the tank,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 83



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EditedEdited by mattyboombatty
I told the gang at yesterday's NJAGC meeting that I begin to be bored with the tank layout, I think nothing much has changed in about 6 months now, like 27 weeks straight with the same concept. Maybe it is time for a change soon.



I was wondering when the next LF tank makeover challenge would take place. I really like the current layout, but as always, I can't wait for the new one!



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Maybe it is time for a change soon.
How about adding some rock work and a different forground plant?

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How about adding some rock work and a different forground plant?


That would not be a makeover that is worthy the "Ingo-Style" classification

It will be a while until I have a solid vision on what to do, so far I only have a concept for maybe a 3rd of the tank.

Ingo


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Actually...
I vote for another tank, and leave these the way they are.


Frank


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Maybe something small...

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I told the gang at yesterday's NJAGC meeting that I begin to be bored with the tank layout, I think nothing much has changed in about 6 months now, like 27 weeks straight with the same concept. Maybe it is time for a change soon.


It's about time!

I think start out by removing the black background. That's very 1990's Amano, it's time to go 2000's Amano style


Back in the saddle!
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Hi Ingo, I just recently picked up your thread and I thank that your tank looks GREAT! I like the idea of a change, but I like it just how it is. (But I'm not the one who has to look at it everyday )
As for me, I dream my tank up, put all the plants in there, and let it grow, grow, grow (at least I hope they do!)

Great job and keep up the GREAT work!


~Morgan~
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I think start out by removing the black background. That's very 1990's Amano, it's time to go 2000's Amano style
What is 2000 Amano? White?

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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH


Haha, I guess all I have to do is to threaten another Ingo-Style redo to get some entries and life back into this log.

NowherMan6 - yeah, what is 2000 Amano? White, no background, rimless, or what?

MoFish - Thanks for the input, I always appreciate comments from people as it shows me who is actually still looking at my tank logs (and who is new to them). I am basically doing the same then you do, think up my layout and the let it grow.

Wings and Frank - I don't think small changes will keep me occupied for long . I will perform some changes this weekend though, most certainly I will dump almost all of the Blyxa and add some of the Ferns from the 40G in that spot.

Actually, changing the background of the tank is easy enough, all I would need is some new cardboard in another color. Maybe I will do this some time soon as well.

Thanks to all so far,

Ingo

EDIT: Did you guys see that I added new entries to the 20 and 29 log last weekend? I guess the info there doesn't interest you at all


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most certainly I will dump almost all of the Blyxa
Want to mail me some???

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Wings,

Trust me, you would not be happy with the package. I pretty much lost any root system these plants ever had, the constant replanting caused serious damage to the stems. Over time, these plants have gotten smaller and smaller on me instead of growing. I believe that even the strongest and tallest of them right now are maybe half the size they were when I got them a few months back.

Packing this stuff and sending it to you would be a waste of my time and your money for shipping (I would not charge you for the plants anyway).

Ingo


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Ok. No problem. Thanks for being up front about it.

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I am so up front that I even tell you that I would not dare to swap these plants at our NJAGC meetings, that how sad they are

I say - Out in the garbage with them

Ingo


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Pretty sad I must say. I guess I will have to try and talk to my other guy.

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Post InfoPosted 03-May-2007 21:12Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
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Weekly Tank Update - Week 84

This week saw a continuation of the Blyxa floating contest, I said enough alright!!!

So, this weekend, after a half-major redo of the 40G (report will follow in a few min), I took all Blyxa out and placed some narrow leaf Java Fern on a piece of wood and filled that space (btw, the fern on the right, it turns out, is not narrow leaf but needle leaf). On top of it, the redo of the 40G also allowed me to add some Anubias Nana in front of the fern and all the way to the right of the tank.

I am most astonished how little was needed to remove the entire Island Effect.

Here you go:

Attached Image:

Week 84



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Post InfoPosted 07-May-2007 02:32Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Here is a closer look at the new Fern group. It did actually not take long until the Espei decided that this is an excellent spawning spot. But I think I have seen them eat the eggs.

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Fern



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And because all is so pretty, here is, for the maybe 20th time since introduced, the male Apisto viejita II, as colorful as usual, LOL.

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Apisto



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And - at least as often as I have shown you something like the viejita did I show you something like this, a flowering Nana.

But I found this one very nice, as the background is better than green or black.

That's it for this tank, now on to a smoke and then the 40G.

Oh, and look at the 20G log for new Cories in the QT, if you haven't done so already.

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Nana Flower



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I am most astonished how little was needed to remove the entire Island Effect.


I personally think it looks even better. My suggestion for what it's worth, add some large size rocks right in front of where the anubias meets the new fern group on the left and maybe one large rock somewhere on the right. This will break up all the green created by the wisteria carpet and add additional depth to the tank. Looks good!

My Scapes
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~I am with Tetra with the rocks idea. You seem to have a lot of green!

~I also like the looks of the tank now better than before.

~It would probably look a little better if you grouped your Reds a little tighter.

~How often are you getting Anubias flowers? My nana is starting to pump them out fairly often now. It is at its 3rd one in the past couple of months. Once they open up they really don't seem to last long in this tank. Maybe a couple of days at most then they close back up.



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Post InfoPosted 07-May-2007 14:12Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
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The higher the tech the shorter the lifespan of an Anubias flower, at least in my experience. Makes sense anyway as all plants grow faster.

Yeah, I am not so certain that I understand the rock positions. Also, I don't think this is a long-term solution in the first place. I didn't even intend to "modify" the tank, all I wanted was to throw out the darn floating Blyxa and save some of the Fern

Ingo


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EditedEdited by MoFish
I like the change Ingo; it looks nice more "spread out". I am also with Tetratech with some rocks. Me personally, I like having big rocks that get bordered by some plants, but tetra's idea sounds better for your tank than mine, it seems too drastic. But then again, that's just up your alley, isn't it?
I am going to go out on a limb here, but I think you should keep the tank just how it is, it looks great...but from what I gather from the people here, it is going to change MUCH more than that!


~Morgan~
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Morgan,

I gather that you know about MTS, and redoing my tanks is fighting this habbit. I already have 4 tanks and under moderate conditions they occupy me more than I like. But once in a while I get the crazy idea to add another tank, but eventually I come to my senses (ok, so maybe I add some day a nano).

But when things go well, the maintenance and worries go down and then I get bored. The same is true for a setup where the final version has been reached and all that is left is trimming it back into shape each week. And all that while there are soooooo many nice setups that one can try.

As you can see, I am trying to convince myself that these redos are good , hope it works (so far it did),

Ingo


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EditedEdited by tetratech
Ingo,

I just got through looking at the sixth meeting of the NJAGC. Whoever put that little summary together on the website did a really nice job. Wonder if nowher was in attendance

I have to say the 40G was more impressive to me in those pics for some reason. I like the transition shot, but I think it's in reverse. The plants didn't grow since the last meeting, they got scalped.

Anyway good stuff!

My Scapes
Post InfoPosted 09-May-2007 04:07Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Thanks tetratech for the input,

Yeah - Joe is doing a great job on taking the pictures during the meetings and then throwing together a humorous little story about the event. And he makes the HTML tables too

I can't tell you if NowherMan6 was in attendance, he is always incognito,

The meetings are always a lot of fun and it for sure is worthwhile to join the club if you live in the area. Next meeting will be this Saturday (already) and I will trade in some of my Java Ferns (narrow and needle) that I had left over from the 40G trim (scalping, ).

Ingo


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I can't tell you if NowherMan6 was in attendance, he is always incognito
He must be the guy in the mask...

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Post InfoPosted 09-May-2007 17:01Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
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Wow, it looks a lot different, even though not much has changed. I also like it this way. Very cool, have fun at the club meeting. I wish we had a good club 'round these parts.



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Yeah Matty,

I was actually shocked how different it looks now. I could not have imagined that the simple addition of the fern and a few Anubias will completely alter the appearance. It gives me new ideas on what I can do with the tank without having to go the Ingo-Style Redo route, although - the 2 year anniversary of the tank will be in September and what would be better than to start all over

Ingo


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I can't tell you if NowherMan6 was in attendance, he is always incognito,

The meetings are always a lot of fun and it for sure is worthwhile to join the club if you live in the area. Next meeting will be this Saturday (already) and I will trade in some of my Java Ferns (narrow and needle) that I had left over from the 40G trim


First of all, I put my picture up on the NJAGC site, now the whole world can see my ugly mug.

Second, if I knew you were giving away some of your NL ferns this weekend I wouldn't have booked this trip to Michigan!


Back in the saddle!
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now the whole world can see my ugly mug.



I don't think so, albeit I haven't tested it, I think you have to be a member to see the member listing (and the forums anyway, or not?)

Anyway, NowherMan6, what are you after, my narrow leaf (on left in this tank now) or my needle leaf (on the right)? The latter I can have you pick up during this coming week, the former may have to wait a little. If you could make certain that you will pick some up then I could withhold either or from the swap (or bring in less).

Ingo


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I wouldn't have booked this trip to Michigan!
Where at in MI? You are now on my grounds!!

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Weekly Tank Update - Week 85

Well, the tank is showing a few minor, and maybe one major change this weekend, maybe you can spot some of them in the full tank shot, otherwise I will make mention in the detail pictures:

Attached Image:

Full Tank - Week 85



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Post InfoPosted 13-May-2007 23:59Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Here is a close look at the major change:

Besides the trimming of the Star Grass, and the replanting of some of the Alternanthera stems, I added about 12 stems of Ludwigia inclinata var. verticillata 'Cuba' - formerly known as Ludwigia sp. 'Cuba'. The tops of most of the stems seem to have recently received not enough light, the leaves are to broad and short and green. I will see how the plant does in my tank.

To support the growth I added 3 plant sticks in the center area.

Attached Image:

New Center



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That last shot was taken pretty much as soon as planting was completed, btw - for a change this plant was not a trade but a purchase.

Here is a wider and better look at the main part of the tank, a day later.

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Center



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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
Here is a look at the left side of the tank, the change there is that I added even more of the narrow leaf java fern to make the group deeper.

Also, on the way left in front of the diffuser is a crypt (only one leaf visible in the shot, sorry), don't remember its name, that I got two NJAGC meetings back and had hidden underneath the Anubias forest.

Attached Image:

Left Tank Part



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Here is a look at the right side of the tank, the main fish hangout area as you can see

Changes here include the stripping of the needle leaf java fern babies of the leaves, and the move of the Hygro out from the center all the way to the right.

Attached Image:

Right Tank Part



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Here are a few detail shots, first up is one of the Otos. If I am not mistaken the 6 survived the initiation about a year and a half ago and it seems like at least some of them are still around. Of course it is impossible to find all of them at once in this tank.

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Oto



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Here is a close-up of the new Ludwigia inclinata var. verticillata 'Cuba'. This stem has maintained the leaf structure all the way to the top, but overall I think the plant will hopefully be a little more pinkish/reddish on top.

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Cuba



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Here is a lone Espei in front of the right group, I think it is a female. Just check her body color, it is of an orange with a yellow tint rather than a red tint that the males have.

Attached Image:

Espei



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Lastly, for now, here is a shot of the daytime hangout spot for quite a few of the Espei, in the leaves of the Needle Leaf Java Fern. The give a nice contrast to the green leaves.

That's it for now, I have to add hundreds (ok, maybe 20) pictures to the 40G now as something bad happened there during the week.

Also, check the 20G and 29G logs for updates,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Peek-A-Boo



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Post InfoPosted 14-May-2007 00:17Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Nice work, I like it a lot - more spread out and a "lush" look to it. Initially the first thing I noticed is the redish/pinkish plants seemed closer together. Don't know if you changed this or not, but that's what I saw (it was probablly because I haven't checked the log in a while and I didn't remember the last layout.

I still am surprised, though, that you haven't done a major redo yet. I'll bet that the "regulars" are all on their toes waiting for the big change.


~Morgan~
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I still am surprised, though, that you haven't done a major redo yet. I'll bet that the "regulars" are all on their toes waiting for the big change.


Morgan,

You sure seem to know me well by now

The red plants have been moved together, that is correct. They are Alternanthera reineckii, I have one in my 29G low tech as well as an experiment.

And about a redo "Ingo-Style" - I don't want to promise too much, but something may be coming up in a while, maybe not as major as a complete strip down. As you can see, I went out and actually bought a new plant species, something I haven't done in a while. That is a sign that I am "experimenting" and of things to come.

Thanks for the entry,

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 14-May-2007 00:47Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Cool pics LF, I'm interested in seeing how that ludwiggia does, and if the plant sticks help. I've thought about using some in the area I keep my red plants. I'm not real thrilled with how the eco complete supports the plant growth compared to flourite I've decided.



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I'm not real thrilled with how the eco complete supports the plant growth compared to flourite I've decided.

You know, I never had Flourite, but I think I can say the same for Gravel with a layer of Laterite. I don't know why, my only current assumption is the high density of the substrate and the struggles for roots to push their way through them. Just thinking out loud,

Ingo


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I haven't ever tried Eco but I really do like my flourite. Other than the initial set up with it.... Rinse rinse rinse... rinse the flourite.... rinse the flourite....

Opps, didn't rinse it enough and I had chocolate milk for a week!

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Post InfoPosted 15-May-2007 13:58Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
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Yeah Wings, that and the color of Flourite are the reasons why I will not add it to my tanks. As a matter of fact, I am currently debating (with myself, that is) what substrate would be the best for the 125G if I wish to make it more "show" like.

Seems like there are only 3 options:

- Eco
- ADA Substrate
- Black small Gravel with Laterite

Ingo


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So you don't like the color of Flourite? I think it looks pretty nice. You really don't see it much once the tank is filled in anyways.

The bucket method of rinsing it is for the birds but you can put it in a fine mesh net and rinse it with ease with much better results.

Have you looking into this?
http://www.seachem.com/products/product_pages/Onyx%20Sand.html

You have a pretty low PH/KH right? This might help with that as it's full of calcium.

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Post InfoPosted 15-May-2007 17:07Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
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hmmm, seems like eco is falling out of favour with some of the planted gang now. Wish I hadn't rushed in & bought it already. Agree with LF about Flourite - both the need for rinsing and the colour. Many people like the colour, but I am stubborn for black and can't imagine another colour substrate creeping into any of my tanks.



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Weekly Tank Update - Week 86

Not much has happened with this tank either during the last week, except that I added a few plants in temporary positions. I will mention them a little later on.

To compare, here is a shot from last week again:

Attached Image:

7 Days Ago



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And here is the tank last night.

I wish to point your attention to the group of Ludwigia inclinata var. verticillata 'Cuba' in the center of the tank that was planted a week ago. Do you notice the growth. I have to say that it surprised me quite a bit.

Attached Image:

Tank This Weekend



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Here is a closer look at the tank's center area showing you the Ludwigia inclinata var. verticillata 'Cuba' stems. Notice that some of them did not grow by as much as others did. Also, there is some Star Grass between this group and the Alternanthera, but this one is not doing too well and quickly falling out of my favor.

Attached Image:

Center



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Here is a shot from the top of the tank looking down onto the Ludwigia inclinata var. verticillata 'Cuba'. The tall stems all show signs of having been at least half way grown emersed, the leaf shape is oval and much greener. As such I conclude that this is the reason why they grow faster.

Attached Image:

Ludwigia inclinata var. verticillata 'Cuba'



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Here is a shot of another addition to the tank, made on Wednesday, called Hydrocotyle verticillata , the pennywort that grows flat ().

I put it for the time being in small groups mostly on the left side of the tank, I will eventually - if it does well - place it as a midground highligh group somewhere.

Attached Image:

Hydrocotyle verticillata



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Here is another plant that I added, but sadly it was in an aweful state when I got it, Pogostemon stellatus'broad'. It pretty much lost all leaves in the transport, but I decided to plant the 5 stems anyway. It appears as if at least 3 of them may be able to recover.

In the background in this shot, barely visible, is another addition. This one seemed to have been grown all emersed and I don't know if it will transition ok, Lobelia cardinalis 'sm form'. We will see ...

Attached Image:

Additions



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Last but not least, a shot of 4 of my 5 Neon Dwarf Rainbows. These guys have been a stable entertainer in this tank for quite a while now, I am glad I got them.

That's it for now,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Rainbows



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Post InfoPosted 20-May-2007 14:24Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
FRANK
 
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Hi,
Beautiful tank...
Re, the discussion about Flourite. In reading the July
issue of Aquarium Fish International Magazine,
Seachem has an ad for Flourite and it now comes in black
dark red, the customary red, and black sand.
So, they have listened to their consumers.

Frank


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Post InfoPosted 21-May-2007 02:25Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Thanks Frank for the compliment on the tank and in particular also for the info on the Flourite. I will have to check that out!

And I see that my two year membership bar has appeared, excellent. Happy Anniversary to myself

Now I will soon have to extend my premie, right tetratech?

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 21-May-2007 02:54Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
NowherMan6
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LF, i find it interesting that to my eyes your tank seems to be coming full circle. It's become very reminiscent of the tank when first set-up and grown in. The current java fern group spreading left reminds me of the Apon group that used to be there.


Back in the saddle!
Post InfoPosted 21-May-2007 03:16Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Dr. Bonke
 
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EditedEdited by Dr. Bonke
The tank is looking very good Ingo, I think I like it better than the island you had for a long time. The hydrocotyle is a cute plant, I had it for a while when I first set up my tank, but in the light setting I had at the time it didn't do very well and got quickly covered in algae. I hope it'll work better in your hands.
Post InfoPosted 21-May-2007 16:06Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Thanks guys for the input

NowherMan6 - Yeah, seems like the tank has come full circle, at least from the distance. Upon close inspection, the plants are not the same (like the Apon that constantly shot out flower stems to the surface and eventually didn't grow any new underwater leaves) and in particular the algae is not the same, as in "I don't have a major problem right now."

But nevertheless, full circle it is, as such it will be time for a change soon

Dr. - Thanks for stopping in, doesn't happen too often that you place your comment in my log(s). How was your light when you had the hydrocotyle and it didn't do well? Too low, too high, or plain wrong?

And how is your tank coming along?

Thanks again,

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 21-May-2007 16:41Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Dr. Bonke
 
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Hey Ingo,

I haven't been posting much at all in the last few months, and with an upcoming month-long vacation I probably won't be posting much in the near future either. I don't have terribly much time these days for internet and reading these forums and a couple of other things is often just what I manage. As you guys are in general well on top of things with good and helpful replies, I generally have been nodding to myself and moved on to the next thread without taking time to write something if I didn't feel that I could add something more useful. Recently, I figured that this atitude may not be the best way to keep people here since the place will seem "empty" without many people posting, so I'm going to try and change that a little (with the exception of my one-month America tour next month ).

Anyway, back when I still had some hydrocotyle I had only 72 watts of light (with reflectors) over my 65g tank. So it was a fairly low light setup, I also didn't really fertilize and didn't have CO2. All in all quite different from the way you're running your tank, so I expect you'll have a better experience with it.

Currently my tank is going fairly steady, there haven't been many changes since I last wrote something in the log. Some of the fish are getting old and start to show it, like for example the rummynose tetras, which have been there for 2½ years now and slowly they are starting to die off. My plan is that after the summer vacation I will transfer all the fish to the smaller tank where I used to have the angels (I brought those to the LFS three weeks ago and gave that a thorough cleaning) and then empty the big tank for a remake, since it's really starting to show its age. My wife has become obsessed with Discus fish and I think I'll remake it in such a way that it'll have a good look for the big fish. Still many plants, but less like the Dutch way. I still have to think on it. I'll probably write down the progress once I get to that point.

Post InfoPosted 22-May-2007 15:49Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Robert H
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Hey Ingo,

I like your tank. I hope you don't mind, but there is no way I am reading over 300 pages! Hygrophila difformis as a foreground plant is something you don't see every day! Your Ludwigia cuba doesn't have any color to it. Its all green! I am suprised you are not going with HC as a foreground like so many other people now. If you ar a member of the New Jersey Plant club, I'm surprised you don't hang out at APC... or do you?

Nice job on the tank.

Best regards

Robert Hudson
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Post InfoPosted 24-May-2007 02:41Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Thanks for the input guys

Dr. - I can't wait for the display of your new not-so-Dutch layout. I also will follow the Discuss development in your tank with great interest, not because I want to have some myself but because it will dramatically change your tank-involvement. I would assume that way more maintenance, aka water changes, will be required, plus all the feeding of goodies, like beef hearts and stuff.

Robert - Thank you so much for your compliments and input on the tank. Here are a few comments with regards to your statements:
- The Cuba is still new in the tank and has been grown at least partially emersed when I got it. It is starting by now to show some changes in leaf structure and color, I will try to post better pictures here once the change has become significant enough to notice in a photo. In the meantime, I am sure I will have to trim the group at least once, the fist stems are almost breaking the surface by now.
- I wish I could take credit for the Wisteria foreground idea, but it was tetratech (a member here and at APC, if I am not mistaken) who showed me the way. I more or less copied him with this approach.
- When I created the current design of the tank I needed fast growers to help me settle in asap. The wisteria foreground was introduced for that purpose. HC, albeit an awesome plant, would have taken way too long to fill that huge area, not to mention that I have my doubts it would have done well in my gravel substrate. Once I switch over to a finer substrate (maybe someday) I may give it a shot, although it is barely growing in my 40G high tech (another 300 page log, ).
- When you say New Jersey Plant Club, do you mean the NJAGC, the newer club founded in October last year by Jay L. and Mike F.? yes, I am a member of that one, actually I am a core member.
- I think I am a member of APC, and you are no stranger to me. I usually don't post there though, only rarely and not in a long time do I actively participate. I have a tight association of my progress in planted tanks with an awesome group of people on this site here (some of which are not on this often anymore ) so I did not see the need to involve even more people in telling me what I should do with my tank instead, . Actually, the main reason for a lack of participation at APC is time. As a member of the NJAGC (see link in my signature) and this site I spend more time than my family likes me to on this hobby.

Again, thank you so much for your input,

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 24-May-2007 14:41Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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EditedEdited by tetratech
Boy Ingo, you get Drs, Owners (Aquatic plant dealers) and Sith Lords to visit your log. How do you do it?

Well my log has no pics in it anymore

My Scapes
Post InfoPosted 25-May-2007 13:26Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
How do you do it?

I have no idea, maybe my humble way of communication () is the key.

Anyway, come on tetratech, shell out the twenty bucks and become a premium again, for the sake of all the Sith Lords that would like to see the pictures. In my opinion, your tank looks better than mine, and I think quite a few people share this opinion with me

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 25-May-2007 14:16Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Wingsdlc
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In my opinion, your tank looks better than mine, and I think quite a few people share this opinion with me
In my opinion... I think both tanks are very nice in their own way. Tetra's is just more flashy.

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Post InfoPosted 25-May-2007 14:38Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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Anyway, come on tetratech, shell out the twenty bucks and become a premium again, for the sake of all the Sith Lords that would like to see the pictures


I'm not sure why they remove all your historic pics from your log when your premie runs out. Isn't that taking away from other members enjoyment and education. Unless can it be true, they really are sith lords

My Scapes
Post InfoPosted 25-May-2007 14:39Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
jase101
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hi ingo -

not logging on much at the mo, but yours is always the first thread i check! i just love this tank - the lush, verdant quality, the fish selecion, everything - i just hope you get the time every now and again to just sit down in front of it and enjoy it!! my tanks are all doing well, planning on a major redesign of the 6footer in a couple of weeks... if i can get round to it!!!

anyways, it's gorgeous. hats off to you.

justin
Post InfoPosted 27-May-2007 05:14Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
bensaf
 
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Boy Ingo, you get Drs, Owners (Aquatic plant dealers) and Sith Lords to visit your log. How do you do it?


And the occassional itinerant Irishman

Being busy as a one legged man at a butt kicking contest.

Only get to write this cos I have a 5 hr layover in Dubai and they have wi-fi in the smoking lounge

Tank looks great. The bigger groups of a smaller amount of soecies works much better.


Some days you're the pigeon and some days you're the statue.

Remember that age and treachery will always triumph over youth and ability.
Post InfoPosted 27-May-2007 05:35Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Well, this is the big praise page, Robert Hudson was here, Justin popped in, the regular gang says its nice, and even the Great Bensaf popps in from an airport and tells me it looks good!

Well, toooooooooo late!!!

It was time for a makeover, Ingo-Style. I guess I am not happy once all is done and a tank runs itself more or less. I need panick, messes, algae, all the good stuff

So - here is the tank yesterday in the morning (this is not a weekly update):

Attached Image:

In the morning



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Post InfoPosted 27-May-2007 14:09Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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All started with the preparation of buckets filled with tank water for the various sized plants, actually I eventually needed another one of these big round red ones.

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The Buckets



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Post InfoPosted 27-May-2007 14:11Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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The it was time to remove the plants and place them in the buckets, one for tall stems, one for the wisteria, one for the Anubias, one for the small plants like the crypts, pearl grass etc., and one for the ferns.

Here is the tank with only the ferns left:

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Almost empty



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Post InfoPosted 27-May-2007 14:12Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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The it was all empty, it is probably not too hard to identify all the gunk in the water.

BTW, I found 5 of the 6 Otos that I added almost 2 years ago, I don't know what happened to the 6th.

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Yuk



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Post InfoPosted 27-May-2007 14:14Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Here is a shot after a 50% water change. It is getting quite a bit clearer in the tank, but still not as good as I would like it to be.

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After First Water Change



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Post InfoPosted 27-May-2007 14:15Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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So I removed even more water, I would guess overall about 70% had been removed by both changes together. Of course I vacuumed the gravel at both, quite some gunk in there.

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Getting ready to replant



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Post InfoPosted 27-May-2007 14:17Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Next, the hardscape was put in place, including the big wood with plants attached to it. I think I will call the new layout "Down by the old tree"

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Hardscape



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Post InfoPosted 27-May-2007 14:19Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Then the tank was refilled and all middle and background plants were placed back into the tank. I was contemplating leaving it like that, but decided that I need some fast growers to stabilze.

Attached Image:

With mid and background plants



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Post InfoPosted 27-May-2007 14:21Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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And here is the full tank, sorry about the bad quality and about the bad color, only the 6,700 Ks were on at this time of the day and I was too tired to turn the other ones back on.

Overall, it all took 12 hours. Some tweaking will still be required, but that's what it's all about anyway

Ingo

Attached Image:

All Done



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Post InfoPosted 27-May-2007 14:23Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Wingsdlc
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LF,

Nice "Thing"!



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Post InfoPosted 27-May-2007 15:01Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
TW
 
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Well, i like the new look - but I also like the old look too. You have too much energy for me LF. I long for a tank that I'm happy with and only have to "tweak" here & there with minor changes. I hope to reach that stage when I (finally) have the new tank up & running. But you were / are there already, with your beautiful tanks.

Still, all your changes make for an interesting log & a good read. Looking forward to seeing what your "tweaking" brings about - but it's very nice as it is.

Cheers
TW
Post InfoPosted 27-May-2007 15:22Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Nice "Thing"!



Revenge is sweet Wings, isn't it

But, as future pictures will show more clearly, this "Thing" has waaaaay more character.

Robyn, just wait until you are all done with one of your tanks, you will see/feel what I am talking about
I believe even tetratech is in sink with me here

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 27-May-2007 15:42Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
TW
 
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Yeah, I see that's how it is for you & tetratech.

I think the new layout gives added length to the tank. I think your tank now looks longer than in some previous layouts.

Anyway, looking forward to seeing it growing in.

Cheers
TW
Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 00:29Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
mattyboombatty
 
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Looks great LF . My only complaint is that all the other driftwood pieces are aimed straight at the front of the tank and parallel to each other. It doesn't look quite natural that way. This might be included in your plans for tweaking though.



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Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 08:03Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
Countryfish
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Ingo , I'll give you this you have lots of courage as well as energy . Love the look especially the bare gravel in front of the driftwood , looks like a river with the rock border.Just in the process of setting up my 6fter and as always you give me inspiration .
Thanks
Garry
Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 11:50Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
Thanks Robyn, Matty, and Garry

- I am with you Robyn, I also think the tank looks longer now. I attribute this to the smaller groups of plants, in particular the needle leaf fern and the Anubias group have been reduced and spread out some more. I am also looking forward to the growing in process.

- Matty, you are sooo right, the sticks are too straight and yes, I tried to tweak this a little, but so far not to my satisfaction.

- Garry, thanks for the input, always glad when my tank helps to inspire others with their tank, even if it would be only for identification on "what not to do" . You certainly identified the river theme very well, I may use a different substrate for that area once all has settled a little (sand comes to mind).

Weekly update will follow shortly,

Thanks again,

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 12:03Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Weekly Tank Update - Week 87

Well, it has been well documented in the previous posts that this week was again another big week for the tank, a major Ingo-Style redo was performed. Nothing was wrong with the tank as it was before, I just thought about changing things around "a little"

To start off, here is a shot from yesterday in the morning, just after lights on:

Attached Image:

In the morning



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Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 13:00Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Well here's my 2.5 cents,

I think the main wood is too centered and it's hard to work the thinner longer pieces in to the setup. I like the plant groupings and it will look better once grown in. Sorry 'but there's no way that anubias works as a corner plant in your tank. Please move it or I'll have to photoshop it out and renew my membership to post the new pic.

My Scapes
Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 13:00Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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And here is a shot from around 8 PM the same day. For one thing, I have done some minor tweakings here and there, mostly by adding some accessory plants and by leaning the sticks a little to one or the other side.

What you may notice is the different color of the photo, somewhat more brown. This would be because of extreme tannins release into the water column. The wood had been soaked for two weeks, but I guess that was not long enough. I may throw in an extra water change or two per week in the beginning. The fish don't mind it though, the Espei are extra busy . I am more concerned about the lack of light penetration.

Attached Image:

At night



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Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 13:03Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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I will ignore tetratech's input for the time being and get back to it once I am done with the update.

So - let's walk through the tank from left to right.

The left is still a little unorganized, but time (and more tweaking) will change that.

Attached Image:

Tank Left Side



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Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 13:07Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Here is the center. The spot where the Espei is in front of the black hole marks the true focal point of the tank, not the big chunk of wood. Once the wood is more planted one will notice the hole even more. I tried rather hard to get a good shot of that area, but the camera settings either make the hole black or all other areas really bright. I guess I should try the flash.

Attached Image:

Middle



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Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 13:10Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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The right side of the tank is probably the currently most successful section of the tank, maybe because it hasn't changed all that much. I reduced the needle leaf java fern group by about half, it was really taking over there in the old layout.

Attached Image:

Right side



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Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 13:11Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Here is a closer look at the two main stem plant groups in that section, the Ludwigia inclinata var. verticillata 'Cuba' and the Alternanthera Reineckii. Once the cuba has grown some more the stick will not be such a focal point anymore. We will see ...

Attached Image:

Stems



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Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 13:15Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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When you look at that group from an angle (downwards) you can already imagine the lesser importance of the stick. The tops of the cuba grow by now much tighter nodes and I assume it is becoming a fully aquatic growth form now.

Attached Image:

Cuba on Angle



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Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 13:17Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Here is the Alternanthera at its best. Somehow, it turned out to be an almost Dutch Street arrangement. This plant was once a maybe 3 inches tall single stem that I got during a shippment by mistake, a long long time ago.

Attached Image:

Alternanthera



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Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 13:19Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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I also added some of the Najas Indica to the way left and right of the tank, here is the small group on the right. I am not certain if it works, but I wouldn't find out without trying.

Attached Image:

Najas Indica



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Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 13:21Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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On the left side of the tank, in front of the smaller Anubias and behind a piece of driftwood, I worked in a small Tiger Lotus. I will see how (and if) it grows and what it will do to that area.

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Tiger Lotus



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Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 13:23Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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The "Thing", as Wings calls it, has quite a bit of character. For one thing, it is hollow and has openings in front and back for fish to swim through. For another thing, it has branches (I will try to get different angled shots later) on which I tied some Nana Petites, as can be seen here:

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Nana Petites



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Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 13:25Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Only two more shots, of some fishies. First up is an Oto. As I mentioned, I counted 5 Otos during the redo, which means one was MIA. I am sure the Otos will like all the new wood to eat off.

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Oto



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Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 13:27Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Lastly, my male Apisto viejita II, partially because I like him so much, partially to point out the color. As you may see, he looks more yellowish that in previous shots. No, he hasn't changed, but he is swimming now in English Breakfast Tea, or at least that is how I would describe the color of the water as of last night (haven't seen the tank today yet).

And that concludes the update, one more entry will follow in reference to tetratech's comment.

Have fun,

Ingo

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Apisto viejita II in English Breakfast Tea



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Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 13:31Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Please move it or I'll have to photoshop it out and renew my membership to post the new pic.

If that's what it takes to get you to become a premium member again, I will leave it right there

I hear you tetratech, but I was trying to work it in somehow. This are 4 remaining parts of my huge Barteri group and I am not so sure if I like it at all in this tank. But, for the time being, that's where it will stay. This way, I have a few months to tweak and change and stuff before it gets boring again.

I think the main wood is too centered and it's hard to work the thinner longer pieces in to the setup.

Agreed, I am also not too happy with the thinner wood, but I also vote for "letting it settle" before deciding on its future position, angle, or presents.

I like the plant groupings and it will look better once grown in.

Thanks that you found at least one good thing about this setup, I will make sure to destroy that area as soon as possible,

Thanks for the input, keep it coming, and go get that premie-ship,

Ingo


Oh - quick question: Amano Shrimp and my Apisto Viejita - will that work?


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Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 13:38Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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I think the shrimp would work out if they are purchased at a reasonable size. Say as large or larger than an adult cherry shrimp.

I think that if your focal point is going to be the black hole then you have the big DW in the right place. Otherwise it would look a little better more to the left.

Other than that I just think it needs to grow in a bit and be subject to further tweaking. It's always a little unfair to judge one of your tanks too much at the start.

Great shots BTW, nice and clear and well focused as always.

One last thing. A major dose of carbon in your filters will take care of the tannins. That may or may not be easier than repeat water changes.



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Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 17:45Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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The shrimp are about 1 inch to 1.5 inches long, so I guess you think it would work then Matty, right?

Hey, I thought I show you quickly these 3 shots. I just did a water change to the tank (easier than adding 500lbs of carbon to my 2028 and 2026, ) and found this sequence very interesting.

Check out the tank half way through the refill. As you can see, the water goes in on the right side. Do you see the difference in the water color, or at least the brightness of the light?

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Filling



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Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 21:35Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Here it is even more obvious, with all the air bubbles reflecting the light and such. Looks almost as if it would be raining on the right side. I swear, the light is on on both sides of the tank.

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Raining



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Here is the tank after a few minutes and adding the macros, baking soda, and equlibrium with the filters turned on. As you can see, all is mixed up now and I have to say that I went from a tea where the bag was sunk in the cup for 5 minutes to one where it was in there for only 2 minutes. I guess I will do another one of these in two days.

Ingo

Attached Image:

All Mixed Up



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Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 21:40Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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LF,

The Alternanthera and Najas shot are great. Everything looks healthy, very nice!

Getting back to your shrimp question, I think they would be O.K., unless the Cichlids get very hungry from not being feed for a while. The amanos do get quite big.

That's pretty cool with the water change pics how the camera pics up the lighter colored bubbles and makes the water look much brighter.



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Post InfoPosted 28-May-2007 21:58Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Thanks tetratech (or Jeff, but I guess only Bensaf gets the honor to have your name at the bottom of an entry ), I will try to add some shrimp sometime this week, or maybe next weekend (I have about 30 in my QT).

Thanks for the compliment on the plants and the photo of the rainfall on the right side of the tank, I am surprised how well the visual experience translated into the picture. Unlike the big hole in the tree, which in pictures seems to be just a black spot. I wish I could bring that chunk of wood across the way it looks when you are in front of the tank, maybe some angled shots will do.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 29-May-2007 01:23Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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Thanks tetratech (or Jeff, but I guess only Bensaf gets the honor to have your name at the bottom of an entry


Oh, stop I know I've signed "Jeff" in your log or in one of our logs as we conversed.

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So the hole is going to be the focus... I was going to say to have you place the Anubius on the DW in that place. I guess thats out for now or maybe the roots hanging over the hole would look like hippie beads.

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Post InfoPosted 29-May-2007 13:57Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
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Ingo, that's Alternathera you have on the middle right of the tank, yes?

What kind of requirements does it have in particular? I've got it in my tank, and it hasn't grown at all while just about everything else has taken off. But it's still just a few inches tall and shows no sign of new growth. :/

Listen! Do you smell that?
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LOL Wings, yeah - no hippie beads for me for now.

lysaer - yes, the red one is Alternanthera. It took a long time in this tank for the plant to get going, in particular because I did not knew what it was and had it shaded for the first few months. But it didn't die either. As a matter of fact, I added one stem a few months back to the 29G low tech and it was stagnant for quite a while, but then it started growing there as well.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 29-May-2007 14:32Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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i like it heaps better than how you had it before, looks great. your apistos dorsal fin is massive!!!

my 55G is the best ive ever had it , but im gunna rip it apart so i can get a 200 but on the plus side im getting a 200G
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Thanks coop for stopping by and for the comments on the tank. It must be pretty exciting for you to set up a 200G tank, sounds awesome. Will it be planted? If so then you for sure have to show it off here


Question: who knows of a finer grained whitish (but not bright white) substrate, but not too fine (as in sand)? I am toying with the idea of placing it in the open space (aka the river).

Thoughts, input?

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 30-May-2007 13:37Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Question: who knows of a finer grained whitish (but not bright white) substrate, but not too fine (as in sand)? I am toying with the idea of placing it in the open space (aka the river).


Easy one, POOL FILTER SAND!

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Post InfoPosted 30-May-2007 13:39Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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I am with tetra on this one. I have it in a couple of my tanks.

50LB = $8 I think....



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As I have no pool, and as such no pool filter sand, what is the size difference between sand and the pool filter sand. Is it actually not sand at all but small gravel?

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 30-May-2007 15:24Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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i have the same "river" thing down the middle of my tank. i use the pool filter sand. i was pretty bright white when i got it though. it isnt white any more coz of the tanins in my tank. any way you can pick it up a yor local pool suply shop or hardware shop. the grains are more like the size of coars rive sand, so i guess you would call it coarse sand or fine gravel.
Post InfoPosted 31-May-2007 02:29Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
tetratech
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As I have no pool, and as such no pool filter sand, what is the size difference between sand and the pool filter sand. Is it actually not sand at all but small gravel?


I have a pool, but it doesn't have a sand filter it has a DE filter. My pool is cleaned with Diatoms

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Post InfoPosted 31-May-2007 02:40Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Thanks for the sandy input

I looked around the web a little in search for what this pool sand is supposed to be and also found some Diatom stuff and some stuff with chemicals. I think I have to be careful picking the right one. I also saw mention of Silica "free" and such, I totally forgot for a moment that Sand = Silica = Diatoms.

In other news, I did another 50% water change last night to remove some tannins, seems to be much brighter in the tank than when I did the same thing two days earlier.

During that process, I found all 6 Otos, although I counted only 5 even with all hardscape and plants removed from the tank during the redo. I wonder where that one guy was hanging out during that process, as I inspected each and every plant/wood that was removed/added.

Also, when I did the redo I put the old wood in a sink and left it there. Last night I looked at it and saw mold all over the parts that had been covered with algae (hair) while the wood was submersed, yuk. I used an algae pad to scrape it off and gave all the pieces an Excel bath in which they still reside. Interestingly, after having had this wood in the tank for maybe a year (would have to go through the thread to find out exactly how long), one of the thinner branches was still floating. Talking about wood needing a long time to water log.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 31-May-2007 13:29Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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I looked around the web a little in search for what this pool sand is supposed to be and also found some Diatom stuff and some stuff with chemicals. I think I have to be careful picking the right one. I also saw mention of Silica "free" and such, I totally forgot for a moment that Sand = Silica = Diatoms.


The bag of sand I have just says - 'filtration sand' on the front and on the back it says - Ricci Bros. Sand Company, Port Norris, NJ 08349 - Not for industrial use

In other news, I did another 50% water change last night to remove some tannins, seems to be much brighter in the tank than when I did the same thing two days earlier
.
You could also use Purgien I think, but water change will do the same thing.

During that process, I found all 6 Otos, although I counted only 5 even with all hardscape and plants removed from the tank during the redo. I wonder where that one guy was hanging out during that process, as I inspected each and every plant/wood that was removed/added.


That's funny because I was able to count 6 otos in my 72g the other day. I noticed they were all hanging together and I hadn't done a water change in a while. I believe they hang together during stressful situations and I thing it was high co2 levels. I noticed that the flow looked very strong coming off the diffusor.


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Post InfoPosted 31-May-2007 14:02Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
Thanks tetratech for the info on the sand, I will check into that.

Also, it would cost me a fortune to fill my 2 filters with purigen, LOL. Honestly though, I am way too lazy to open up my filters and mess with the media, which would mean that I have to remove some of the existing media to place something else in, and that would mean cleaning, and what not.

Otos hanging out together seems to me to be part of their daily routine. We know that they are social animals and as such it doesn't surprise me that they have a meeting once in a while per day. Albeit you may be on to something with the CO2, it could also simply be that there is a certain pattern to their social habits, like "let's discuss the day after dinner" kind of thing.

Ingo


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Weekly Tank Update - Week 88

This week has seen two additional water changes, on Monday and on Wednesday. It wasn't so much about tannis from the new wood were bugging me, but I was a little concerned with enough light hitting the plants.

Here is the tank from a week ago, as a comparison:

Attached Image:

Last Week



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Post InfoPosted 03-Jun-2007 14:21Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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And here is the tank now this week.

You may notice the slightly brighter color of plants and water column, a result of less tannins.

I also dug out some of the substrate in the open "river" section. Growth overall is ok, but not really strong.

Attached Image:

Tank Last Night



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One of the plants that had really slowed down in the growth is the Cuba, but its new growth form is more submersed. Leaf node gaps are really small, the leaves are very narrow, all as it should be. But, compared to last weeks growth of quite a few inches, this week has seen maybe one inch.

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The Cubans



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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
The last and next picture have been taken during the water change, btw.

I was wondering if this plant is a heavy root feeder and I remembered that I put some plant sticks in the gravel when I initially planted them. Now, having been relocated, they were no longer "over" these sticks, so I added two more yesterday.

Attached Image:



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The next two shots are some closer looks at tank areas from different angles. First is the look at the section in front of the wood and to the right of it.

Here you can see a sword (smaller sword type, forgot name) getting used to submersed growth, some pearl grass, and a bunch of crypts, namely wendtii and lucens (or lutea, always get them confused):

Attached Image:

Detail I



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Post InfoPosted 03-Jun-2007 14:35Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Next is a look at the 3 sticks to the right, with plants in front and back and in between and on it, LOL. Also, some of the rocks that I added there are showing.

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Detail II



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Next up is a series of 3 shots trying to make the best of the tree trunk in a sense on showing you its details.

Here is a shot from the section above the big hole, with a branch coming off it on the left (with Nana Petites on it), some pennywort growing over it, and a hole just below the latter. Holes are everywhere on this wood, connecting front and back.

Attached Image:

Wood I



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Post InfoPosted 03-Jun-2007 14:39Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Here is the best shot I got so far from the big hole/gap that I got so far, I guess I need a fancy flash to show it better.

Also, note yet another hole on the right.

Attached Image:

Wood II



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Last of the wood shots is higher up, with an Oto on some wood with ripples.

I hope it gives you an idea that this is not just a chunk of wood but some wood with character

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Wood III



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The last two shots are commited to the newest additions to the tank, 10 Amano shrimp. They have been in the QT (with about 20 others) for the last two weeks and were added to this tank last night.

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10 Amanos



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As they are rather juvenile shrimp of maybe 1 inch, I was a little concerned about them being eaten by the Apisto male in general.

After adding them I kept an eye open for him, but he seemed to be more focussed on chasing them away. The female Apisto, on the other hand, appeared more in the mood of stalking them. It seems like she would like to take a bite, we will see.

That is it for now,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

2 Amanos



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What a surprise this morning,

After finding a dead shrimp in the 40G, I went to look if I can find any of the 10 in this tank. Well, I found overall 6, and that is pretty good, given the tank size and number of invisible spots in the tank.

But the good, I may say shocking, news are a branch that was left in the tank as it was overgrown with the needle fern on the right side of the tank. That branch was full of hair algae, about half an inch long threads were covering the entire lenght of about 5 to 6 inches. Well, this morning it was totally clean. I cannot show it in a picture as it is in the midst of the fern, so you have to take my word for it. These shrimp, by the time I checked 5 had moved on to the heater behind the wood, sure can eat their share of fluff, wow.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 03-Jun-2007 22:29Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Very nice shots of the tank, as usual, Ingo.

So, would you say the amanos are better at algae eating then the cherry reds?

Cheers
TW
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So, would you say the amanos are better at algae eating then the cherry reds?

Oh, I could have told you that even without the feast that happpened last night. Both for sure are busy bees, but simply the size difference, an adult Amano is twice the size of a cherry shrimp, speaks for that.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 04-Jun-2007 00:34Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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I'd say both are miracle workers. Pound for pound I'd say they work the same. You can probably get amanos cheaper.....but then the cherries sure are prettier. I move the nana petite over to the 5.5 for a cleaning......spotless.



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And Cherries have an advantage --> they reproduce

On the other hand, they also fit easier in the mouth of a hungry Apisto

Ingo


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Very nice shot of the tank. I think the colors and contrast are great.

Glad you discovered shrimpsters. They'll definitely help keeping the main wood especially clean. I actually need some more for my 72g I think I only have 7 or 8.

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Hey tetratech,

For some reason, most of the regulars are no longer frequenting my low tech tanks, as such I assume you haven't seen today's update there yet.

I think there is a threshold on how many shrimpsters a tank can handle before they start to munch on the plants. Two weeks of 30 juveniles in the 20G was enough to clean the entire tank and then some --> namely the eating of my Najas indica, nice thin juicy leaves .

I am not certain if I wish to have more than 10 in the 125G, given that the Otos would like to have something to eat as well.

Ingo


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I am not certain if I wish to have more than 10 in the 125G, given that the Otos would like to have something to eat as well.
I do not see a problem with my shrimp eating plants but I wonder if their population explosion has resulted in my missing Otos. I am 99% sure I am down to one from five. My shrimp on the other hand are doing great. I still have 4-5 Amanos and a ton of Cherries. My guess is that the shrimp ate the food and the Otos didn't have enough left. The solo Oto seems pretty happy though.

Life goes on. Now is not a good time to replace much of anything as the Wife and I are looking to move wherever I can find a teaching job.

55G Planted tank thread
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Wings,

Good point, I actually up to this weekend have never thought about shortage in food with regards to shrimp and Otos.

It sure makes sense that these two groups od species compete for similar foods, although there are for sure preferences that are not shared, I have never seen an Oto eat my hair algae and I have never seen a shrimp eat of the glass.

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I have never seen a shrimp eat of the glass.
Mine will walk the glass and eat off of it at times. Lately they have been on the plants at the surface of the tank. I think they may like flakes I feed the fish...

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Mine will walk the glass and eat off of it at times. Lately they have been on the plants at the surface of the tank. I think they may like flakes I feed the fish...


You must have some really nasty, stringy algae on your glass. I could see those shrimp swinging like Tarzan from one algae string to the next.

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I've seen that as well, Wings.

I've never seen Amanos go after the long stringy stuff already there, they seem to eat it as it grows. So to me it means that the hair algae is just starting to form on the glass, which is kind of like a warning bell that something is off. They let you know that algae is forming where it shouldn't before you can even see it.


Back in the saddle!
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I still have 4-5 Amanos and a ton of Cherries. My guess is that the shrimp ate the food and the Otos didn't have enough left.
Hmm, just as I thought I will try to hunt for some of these shrimpsters, now I just don't know. I like my otos, very very much. They are the acrobats of the tank.

Also, would the shrimpster be quick enough & bold enough to eat guarded apisto eggs or fry?

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Robyn,

I think the balance that needs to be achieved would allow for sure for a handful of Otos and shrimp, in particular if the latter are Amanos as they will not reproduce for sure.

About eating Apisto fry: I can see that, depending on the specifics. Shrimp can be rather fast, using a burst to get out of harms way. if the mother/father are not tight guardsmen then some eggs can easily become shrimp food.

Ingo


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I agree with LF, that given the opportunity the Amanos or maybe even the Cherries would steal the eggs and have a nice brunch with them. If you ever drop an algae wafer into a tank with Amanos, it's hilarious as the Amano hold the wafer as the fish chase it around the tank.



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Funny that you mentioned the wafer. I used to feed the Cories in my 20G a sinking wafer that I broke into 4 pieces. Once I added the Amanos to the tank there was no chance for the Cories to grab a piece, the Amanos rushed to them before the Cories could even blink and dragged them off to safer grounds to chew away

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So I had a little time today and paid a visit to the pool shop. Yup, I found Pool Fiter Sand, but it is unacceptable. It pretty much is as fine as Play Sand, as such way too find in comparison with the tank's ordinary gravel that makes up the rest of the substrate. I know exactly what this would lead to, namely:

Me putting in the Pool Fiter Sand, then realizing that it is nice but somehow doesn't match the other gravel, and then replacing the other gravel as well.

No way in hell I am going to do this though (well, not within the next few months, there it would be time for a redo anyway )

So, the search for a light colored inert substrate of larger grain size is still on,

Ingo


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So I had a little time today and paid a visit to the pool shop. Yup, I found Pool Fiter Sand, but it is unacceptable. It pretty much is as fine as Play Sand, as such way too find in comparison with the tank's ordinary gravel that makes up the rest of the substrate. I know exactly what this would lead to, namely:


I'm confused. Sand is going to be finer grain than the gravel. What't the problem?

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Tetratech,

The way I see it, the substrates would clash too much. The gravel with its size of maybe 1/2 inch would start to look like boulders next to the pool filter sand. I have no doubt that I would like the sand, but it most likely would mean that I have to replace the gravel to match the sand, avoiding such a clash. If I had the densest of all jungles then the gravel would not be visible anyway, but I think the current layout of the tank will always reveal some substrate.

Makes sense?

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Weekly Tank Update - Week 89

This week has seen no water changes during the week, although I was very tempted to have at least one, because of the tannis from the new wood. But by no means was it as bad as last week.

Here is the tank yesterday in the morning before the water change:

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Before Water Change



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And here is the tank right after the water change, before any goodies were added (equilibrium, baking soda, and ferts).

As you can see, the tank seems much whiter.

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After Water Change



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Growth in the tank was ok, some plants grew more than others.

For example, the Najas indica on the right grew very well and needed to be trimmes. Here is a close-up before trimming:

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Najas indica



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The Pennywort on the left grew very well too, also needed a trimming as the plant reached the surface and started to block the water lettuce from freely flowing across the surface.

Again, a shot from before the trimming:

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Pennywort



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The plant that did not grow too well was the 'Cuba'.

Here is a shot from above made during the water change. One can clearly see the different leaf shape between the tops (submersed form) and the lower parts (emersed form):

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Cuba I



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The difference becomes even more obvious when viewed from the side. One can see that the top 2 inches of most stems show how the plant is supposed to look like. But, these 2 inches is all I got so far, from a plant that is supposed to grow really fast (and it did in the first week after being added). I assume that the emersed parts of the stems have used up their stored energy.

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Cuba II



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Last shot for this round, another full tank shot taken last night, about 10 hours after the water change. The tank is getting more tannins already, albeit the comparison to the previous picture is not fair as only the 2 10,000Ks are on in this picture.

That's it for now,

Have fun,

Ingo

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Full Tank - Week 89



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I think the tank looks really good. The wood definitely adds dimension, focus, contrast and the overall tank is crisper. Again I don't think the Anubias is a good corner plant, but I think you know that.

The tops of your cuba, look like my L.Aromatica when it's not growing well.

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Ingo the tank looks sensational as always , the tannins from the wood are not all that noticable from the pics.

I'm reluctant to comment on the scape other than to say that I love the beach/ river theme ( I wonder why )

I think I agree with the idea of a lighter substrate in that area , maybe not sand just a finer pale gravel .

Anyway just my 2c for what its worth. Love this tank and the photos look great .
Garry
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Again I don't think the Anubias is a good corner plant, but I think you know that.

Well then tetratech, how about if I put it all the way to the right of the tank, between the glass and the fern? And at least for the time being keep the left side a little lower?

I'm reluctant to comment on the scape

Garry, don't be! Any input is welcome, I can handle it when people tell me that this or that is not what they really like. Hey, what is the worst? I can always ignore the judgment and pay a price for it later

Ingo


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EditedEdited by tetratech
Well then tetratech, how about if I put it all the way to the right of the tank, between the glass and the fern? And at least for the time being keep the left side a little lower?
Isn't that still a corner? You guys from Jersey

P.S. I drove to Plainsboro, NJ yesterday. Fun trip, especially with the increased traffic from the P.R. Day Parade.

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Isn't that still a corner? You guys from Jersey

See, that is why you have the tank of the month and not I

Somehow, I got hung up on the left corner, ignoring that you were speaking of corners in general.

I guess that means that you actually cannot see a place for the large barteri anywhere in the tank, right?

And yes, I stay away from the Metro Area whenever there is some kind of Parade

Ingo


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See, that is why you have the tank of the month
Your probably right.

I guess that means that you actually cannot see a place for the large barteri anywhere in the tank, right?
It's size is the problem, so I think the only solution would be to keep it as small as possible and put it somewhere off-center near big wood.

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It's size is the problem


Honestly, I was contemplating of not adding it back into the tank when I did the last redo for exactly that reason. But attachments to this plant, as it has grown so well for me, kept me from disposing of it in some form (either throw it out or give it to some NJAGC members as a trade in).

What already seems like a large plant is actually only 4 of the original 12 equal sized "clippings" that I created a while back when I had to cut up the one mother Barteri as it was getting way too large for the last layout.

Ingo


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Weekly Tank Update - Week 90

Well, this week had seen the death of one group of plants, the cubans. One could see it deteriorate by the day. Here is a shot from Friday showing part of the group. You can see that only the tops are in submersed growth form, and that little part is the result of three weeks:

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Cubans I



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A closer look reveals that some of the heads are actually dying off at the spot between old emersed and new submersed growth. Here is a look at one stem on Friday night starting to bend over:

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Cubans II



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And here is a look at the same stem from Saturday morning, all bent out of shape. By that time, 2 other stems had lost the tops completely, two more had brown tops, and a few others were still hanging in.

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Cubans III



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Having not changed ferts, even having Seachem fert sticks under the plants, having not changed the ligh duration, the culprit seems to be the light as it is reaching the plant. The pictue below shows what I mean. This water is taken from the middle of the water column, no gunk or such was added. The tannins, I assume from the large wood, make the tank tea colored and greatly reduce the light that reaches the plants. Cubans do need quite some light, I have seen shots of some that have come in the same delivery batch than mine under 6wpg in a 75G or so, and they are beautiful.

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Tea Anyone?



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And that was that for them in this tank, currently the few survivors part of a rescue mission in the 40G, updates there later.

Oh, at the same time when I took the shot of the bending head I also caught the Wisteria waking up, top still closed:

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Sleepy Wisteria



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So, to counteract the tannins, at least for a day or two, I performed 2 50% water changes, with about a 1 hour break between them to clean the 2028 filter. Here is the full tank after the second water change:

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Water Changes Done



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As you can see, the spot of the Cubans has been reclaimed by Narrow Leaf Java Fern. I had them in a bucket ever since the replant, replacing the water every week with "fresh" tank water. I am glad now that I didn't throw them out or gave them away.

Here is the fern:

Attached Image:

NLJF



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Another thing that the careful observer may have seen in the full tank shot is a change in how the "river" looks like. I received some plants during the week and basically parked them in the river. I kinda like it, so it will be parked for a little longer. This are 20 !!!! Nana Petites on 2 sticks.

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Nana Petites



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Here is another impressionist shot of the same area, as you may notice the male Apisto has been in both shots. The Apistos like that area as the female often slips into a personal gap in the big wood.

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Center of Attention



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Here is a closer look at the male, albeit not the best I ever took. I am glad that at least for one day I was able to view him without the tannins as they make him look rather pale and yellowish:

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Da Man



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The next two shot are typical (at least in my tank) courtship pictures. Male and female apisto take turns swimming in front of each other, or better said stand in front of each other. Then the one in front folds up the tail and slaps the other in the face with it

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Courtship I



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Here is the reverse with the female slapping the male. As you can see, she is really folding up that tail fin. I once have seen the male actually bite her in the fin during this courtship, and pulling her backwards, but no damage was done, no piece was missing.

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Courtship II



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Last but not least, the official tank shot for week 90, taken yesterday in the evening. I have to say that I value this shot very much, it has been a few weeks since the green in this tank appeared as lush as it did without the load of tannins.

I only hope that the tannis will wear down soon, I am not ready to counteract with Purigen yet as it would mean that I have to remove other media from the filer to make space for it.

Thanks for looking,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 90



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EditedEdited by tankwatcher
Hi Ingo

Hope the tannins settle down for you. Those 2 water changes must been a bit of an effort. the new nanas look good in the river area. I also really enjoyed the "tail slapping" antics of your apistos. Very cute. Mine have never done that.

Cheers
TW
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also really enjoyed the "tail slapping" antics of your apistos


Thanks Robyn for the input and comments.

My Cacs in the 40G have shown a similar slapping thing as here, but by far less often and only half hearted. Well, we all know what kind of a looser the male in that tank is though

Ingo


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Hi L_F,
now I dare to give you a bit of input. First of all, great update as always!
I have to say that I do like the 'light breakfast tea color' of the tank but that is just me and I realize your concerns about diminished light penetrating and affecting light sensitive plants. Anyway, here it goes: IMHO one of the nicest plants in this tank is the Alternanthera and this group appears a bit diminished in the most recent pic. Overall, the addition of more Java fern to replace the ailing Cuban creates a bit of a 'curtain look'. A great addition is the group of nanas in the foreground as they create a focal point that is missing in this section 9the forefront of the tank) a bit. The wisteria is nice but it gives the appearance of a nicely trimmed English lawn (fish golf? ). I am thinking a minor interruption in form of another 'hole' or a smaller rock would be nice?

Post InfoPosted 17-Jun-2007 17:38Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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now I dare to give you a bit of input.

How dare you criticize my tank!



Just kidding, of course,

Your input is much appreciated, here is the breakdown of your comments and my response:

- "great update as always!" - Thank you very much .
- "and I realize your concerns about diminished light ..." - Brown water is not my favorite, I like it clear better. I received quite some compliments during the last NJAGC meeting at my place when all members were astonished how clear my tanks are (were, in case of this tank, for the time being).
- "one of the nicest plants in this tank is the Alternanthera" - I couldn't agree more, and guess what --> growth of this plant stopped with tea water as well. Another reason why tea water is not so good.
- "creates a bit of a 'curtain look'." - I take it you mean that in a "not-so-good" way, and here I agree as well. My options were a) add the plants I have or b) leave a big open hole. Being a preacher of "stuff the tank" I would never leave a spot open that is not in the design as open. I have that fern on some wood and when it is time to fill the area with some other plant it will take about 5 seconds to remove the entire replacement group.
- "A great addition is the group of nanas ..." - Yeah, it is , and I actually had these planned for another tank that is undergoing its make-over in my head right now. I think I will remove them from this tank once I have made up my mind and find time for the makeover though. Just thinking of the market price for 20 Nana Petites and consider me buying a replacement to maintain these in this tank makes me shiver.
- "the appearance of a nicely trimmed English lawn" - what would be wrong with Hyde Park? Where would you suggest the hole?

Thanks so much for the input, much appreciated,

Ingo


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I was bored, so I manned the camera, attached the macro lens, and took a few shots. Nothing special came up though, with one exception being the last of these 3 shots that I am going to present.

Number one would be the No 1 in the tank, the Male Apisto:

Attached Image:

Male Apisto



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Post InfoPosted 17-Jun-2007 23:29Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Next up would be:

Yes - I do have snails in the tank, but few and between. A sign of proper feeding, good plant health, and enough predators.

Attached Image:

A Snail



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Last but not least, when I was about to put the camera away, I saw this. An Amano on top of the glass below the light, roasted

He must have jumped out in the small open area in the back part of the top where the filter flows are entering the tank.

Who would have thought!

That's it,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Shrimp Cocktail



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Post InfoPosted 17-Jun-2007 23:35Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Sorry for the shrimp and thanks for the education - I will disapprove of tea water in the future as well . It never entered my mind that this could be detrimental to the Alternanthera. What I meant with the lawn reference: the right side of the tank (foreground) appears very uniform with the Wisteria covering the gravel entirely. I was thinking that a small group of a different plant (nothing tall!) or a rock could create another focal point to disrupt this. Just a thought and there is nothing wrong with Hyde Park
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Guess I've been lucky I've never had that happen to any of my shrimp, although I guess they could have jumped out and fell behind the tank unknown to me.

Tank looks good as I said I like the big wood focus, but I think you could still build more midground around and make it more natural looking.

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Makes sense catdancer, I will think about what can be done.

tetratech - the midground is in the makings, it just has to grow . There are about 15 crypts on the right of the wood, in front of the area where the cubans were. And some other plants in smaller numbers as well. Maybe I will also use the pearl grass further back.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 18-Jun-2007 01:38Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Ingo , your Photographic skills never cease to amaze me.Wish I could get my macro lens to perform like that ?!

I showed your Pics of this tank to a few friends last night and they were blown away . It continues to look fantastic

However , a couple of points .
I actually think the removal of the cubans is a good thing. IMHO they looked out of place .

The Anubias in the river to me spoil the look of it and the black area behind and underneath the driftwood . I think that area creates focus and depth .
It certainly draws the eye into mysterious interior
and if I were you I'd be reluctant to clutter it up .

I'm sorry to hear about your Shrimp .

Keep up the great work , Well done again
Garry
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Hey LF. I gotta say I'm in the same opinion as you about tannins. I like a bright tank. It's a bit unnatural to have perfectly clear water in a planted setting I guess, but brown water just screams water change to me.

I like the look of this setup so far but I think there needs to be a bit more midground. I feel like there is a wall of stems and fern behind the carpet. Could just be the head on angle the picture was taken though. I know how hard it would be to get a decent angle shot of a 6 foot tank, and front on shots tend to be the most informative as well, so I'm not blaming you there.

I have to say the nana petites are a wee bit unnatural looking there, but still nice. I guess it won't matter either way since they will be moving. And I sure am jealous about 20 nana petites.



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Post InfoPosted 18-Jun-2007 04:44Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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Ingo,

This latest revision of the tank is looking very nice. As always I love watching this tank evolve from one layout to the next.

-Rick

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Post InfoPosted 18-Jun-2007 04:55Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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Thanks guys for the input, and constructive criticism ,

Yeah yeah, everybody want everything right away

Now that I have become a preacher of patience , I cannot go ahead and move things around constantly. Time, my children, time will change things .

Well, you get my point. I am with you on many things you have said, and that includes tetratech's Nana barteri comment, but I redid the tank and used what I had to set it up. A major advantage, IMHO btw, because none of the plants were stressed from shipping or different water conditions.

This is the great thing about such a redo. just like in the last one, you start of somewhat rugged, but over time you adjust little things here and there, and voila, the tank looks better and better. Once all is done, meaning you reached the limits of your talents for the current scape, you start all over again

I think the master would be very proud of me right now, but I have to assume that half of the readers here don't even know who I would be referring to

Thanks for the comments and suggestions, much much appreciated,

Ingo


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tetratech
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Yeah yeah, everybody want everything right away
Hasn't this tank been around like two years.

I think the master would be very proud of me right now, but I have to assume that half of the readers here don't even know who I would be referring
Oh stop, your making me blush

My Scapes
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Oh stop, your making me blush

-

Otherwise, I am speechless

Ingo


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Weekly Tank Update - Week 91

Not much happened during the week with this tank. The tannins are not as bad but still cause growth issues, the thread with which I strung some Anubias Nana Petites on the spread out branches came off and some floated about the tank.

I did a 75% water change (wanted to do 2 x 50%, but got caught up in the Bolbitis removal in the 40G).

That's it, gotta go,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 91



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Post InfoPosted 25-Jun-2007 01:16Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Ingo , Tank looks fantastic as usual . I see the Anubias are still on the river . .

You are obviously busy , but thats the shortest update I've ever seen from you .

Hope everything is all right

Garry
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Thanks Garry, here is another short one

Weekly Tank Update - Week 92

Nothing special happened this week, just very busy at work and such. I think I see some visible growth for the first time since the makeover, the tannins are still there but maybe weaker.

Here is the tank before the water change:

Attached Image:

Before Water Change



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Post InfoPosted 01-Jul-2007 14:44Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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And here is the tank a few hours after the water change. It is quite a bit brighter I think. Pearl Grass and Alternanthera show the growth from a week ago, everything else is the same old,

K, I will follow the entries in all other logs, but I am short on my time and as such will not be able to contribute too much,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 92



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Post InfoPosted 01-Jul-2007 14:47Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Looks good LF. Looks to me like your alternanthera grew the most .

Hope work calms down for ya



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Post InfoPosted 02-Jul-2007 00:37Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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Ingo , Looks like the tannins are abating , certainly looks a lot lighter in the photos .
Your right I don't think I've ever seen this tank with less growth .

Hope work lightens up for you .
Its very quiet around here without your fascinating posts to read

Garry
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Thanks guys for the input

Weekly Tank Update - Week 93

Not much happened during the week, tannis are still there and hinder the growth. I also think now that the removal of the gunk in the substrate may slow down new growth as I took away some plant food.

One of the Rainbows has an injured pectoral fin but seems otherwise fine. Nana petites are one after the other coming off the wood as the thread is disintegrating too early.

I ran out of CO2 within two weeks of hooking up a new 10lbs bottle and I think I cannot get a seal anymore. What do you guys do to keep a seal? Tetratech - do you have a perma seal?

Enough for now,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 93



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Post InfoPosted 09-Jul-2007 01:23Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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I use plumbers tape to help create a tight seal.

Nice shot with the espei .



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Post InfoPosted 09-Jul-2007 02:07Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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Yeah, I second that. Great shot with the espei in front the wood!

If you mean betwen the cylinder and the regular I use teflon tape. Haven't had any leak problems yet.

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Post InfoPosted 09-Jul-2007 02:17Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Thanks guys for the Espei comments and the tips on the regulator.

The guys at the welding shop explicitly stated that no teflon tape should be used between the regulator and the cylinder as the brass part of the regulator will seal very tight. I think my problem is with the white plastic fitting on the foot of the regulator and that this part is no longer capable of a tight seal. I used to use a common gray washer between the white seal and the cylinder but I was informed that the doubling up of seals (white and gray) would for sure cause a leak (and so it did the last time around).

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 09-Jul-2007 13:41Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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They just say that because they don't like to remove the tape when someone brings the cylinder back. I can't imagine it does any harm. I've had problems with the one at work with no teflon tape, but not at home. We use the same type of regulator and everything.

I also use just the one white washer that came with the regulator instead of doubling up. Hopefully the leak is at the threads, where you can do something about it and not at the seams of the other parts. Use a soapy water solution to find the leak next time. Bubbles!



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Post InfoPosted 09-Jul-2007 14:16Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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Ingo , Great shot as always , how many Harleys do you have now BTW.
Another quick question if you don't mind .
What is the plant in the back left ?

Garry
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The only part that would really cause a leak is the white washer. Take a look at how it connects together.

55G Planted tank thread
19G Container Pond
[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
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EditedEdited by LITTLE_FISH
Thanks guys again for the input on the leak, it seems like it holds the pressure this time so I am not going to touch it now (of course when I come home from work it will be empty now that I said that )

Garry - to your questions:

* how many Harleys do you have now
Actually, this are not Harleys, this are Espei, Trigonostigma espei. I currently have about 25 left, but you may know from this log that I once had about 100. About 60 had been traded off and about 15 died so far of probably old age. This fish is my specialty - go and check the August 2006 issue of TFH for details.

* What is the plant in the back left?
Hm, in the way left is a group of cut up Anubias barteri of which I had a huge plant in the left center of the tank in my last layout. Right next to it is some Pennywort climbing up and over.

Thanks,

Ingo



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Post InfoPosted 10-Jul-2007 21:06Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
sodaaddict84
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first off awesome tank. i drool with envy every time i see it. but one question, in the last pic posted i see plant mass at the top of the water. is this floating plants or just a reflection

*click *flash *click "whered he go???"
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first off awesome tank. i drool with envy every time i see it. but one question, in the last pic posted i see plant mass at the top of the water. is this floating plants or just a reflection

*click *flash *click "whered he go???"
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sodaaddict84,

There is a plant type on the surface, it is commonly know as Water Lettuce, aka Pistia stratiotes I think. It is a really fast grower and needs to be thinned out weekly to avoid too much shading and it is a highly dangerous weed in nature (killing entire water ways). It is though an excellent nutrient sucker.

To move on:

Weekly Tank Update - Week 94

Not much happened during the week, so here is a full tank shot showing the few things that did happen during the weekly maintenance:

Attached Image:

Full Tank 7/14/2007



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Post InfoPosted 15-Jul-2007 15:02Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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As tetratech will notice right away, the Barteri group on the left is gone, he wore me down

In its place I added a collection of Najas indica stems that I had grown in the 29G and in various spots of this tank. I also trimmed some of the pearl grass and spread that out into the left side as well.

Attached Image:

New Left Side



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Post InfoPosted 15-Jul-2007 15:04Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Although the last shot was for the Najas, the Espei seemed to have found there a new hangout spot.

So here is a shot showing the Espei a little more in focus:

Attached Image:

Espei



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Post InfoPosted 15-Jul-2007 15:05Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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The focus are of the tank, currently hosting the "Nana Petites on a Stick" is not so focussed anymore. The disintegrating string made quite a few of them come loose and I simply stuck them into the open substrate. That is where they will stay until I put them wherever they will end up for good.

Also, greetings from the Apistos:

Attached Image:

Focus Area



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Post InfoPosted 15-Jul-2007 15:07Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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The last picture for now shows the highly unorganized area to the right of the large driftwood, an area that I may "clean" a little during next weeks maintenance. For now it has to do.

And that is it for this week,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Unorganized Middle Section



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Post InfoPosted 15-Jul-2007 15:09Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Oh my lord I haven't been here in AGES and your tank still looks amazing!

I want to come and live at your house Little Fish!

GFGxx

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GFG

Long time no see, glad you are still peaking in once in a while. Thanks for the compliments, the tank is just starting to settle after its latest LITTLE_FISH style redo and things are looking up by now (slowly).

Thanks again,

Ingo


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As tetratech will notice right away, the Barteri group on the left is gone, he wore me dow


No comparison, so much better and that Naja was a really nice choice for the left side. Great shot with the Espei swimming past.

I think you need to tighten up (bunchier and shorter) the red group and it will look more organized on the middle right.

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I think you need to tighten up (bunchier and shorter) the red group and it will look more organized on the middle right.

I am all the way with you on this one, tetratech

But given that the last redo was only like 4 or 5 weeks back I decided to take it slow and do one area per week max. So the red group section will be done maybe next weekend, if time permits. I am planning on moving (and of course trimming) the alternanthera to the right of the large driftwood, the spot currently occupied in the back by the narrow leaf fern. And that fern would move to the right of that alternanthera group, for the time being, until I feel comfortable to replace it with something else (was meant to be the cuba stems, darn).

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 16-Jul-2007 13:55Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Well that makes perfect sense, the slow redos, I couldn't agree more. Wow we are really agreeing on alot.

BTW - Spent the weekend in Albany at the Empire Cup where my son's soccer team beat some Jersey Elite Select Team.


Just thought I'd throw that in there!

My Scapes
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Ingo , as always your sense of whats right for your scape is spot on .
The Naja is a favorite of mine and it should look senastional when its fully grown .
I agree with Tetra on the comment about the red group , it would look fantastic if it stood out more .
Can't wait to see what you do there .

I see that the Nana's are still in the river
Still think it detracts from the effect .

Great shot of the Apisto's BTW .

The thought of you doing things slowly gives me faith that I also may be able to change in the future
As always a pleasure to read your logs .
Garry
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where my son's soccer team beat some Jersey Elite Select Team.





Yeah, I sometimes have the patience to wait with my changes.

Garry, the nanas will stay there until I have the time to redo the tank where they will eventually end up in, and that is going to be a while.
The Najas will soon start to be a problem as they grow so fast that they will be blown over by the small power head and the spray bar very soon. Frequent trimming will be a must.

Thanks for the positive comments,

Ingo


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Weekly Tank Update - Week 95

I don't have too much time, but I will try to catch up with all your threads maybe on Monday at work, so for now just a quick update on this tank:

Here is the tank before the water change:

Attached Image:

Before Water Change



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Post InfoPosted 23-Jul-2007 01:56Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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As you may see, the Najas on the left is truly a fast grower, I doub't that I will keep it all that long in the high tech tank, way too fast.

In this close-up you can also the the diffuser on the left. I tried to clean it during the water change and what can I say, it slipped out of my hands into the sink and crash - 1000 pieces . I am glad I had a replacement one handy, same kind.

Attached Image:

Najas indica



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Here is a shot showing the amount of Water Lettuce that I remove weekly, this is on the top of a 5G bucket lit. In comparison, these are 5" tweezers on the left:

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Weekly Water Lettuce Removal



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After the water change I added another 9 Amanos from the 20G QT, there are now around 4 left in that tank. I was worried about the Apistos in this tank with the Amanos, and albeit I never see all od the 8 or 10 that I added a few weeks ago I see at least a few of them.

Attached Image:

Another 9 Amanos



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Last but not least, a full tank shot after the water change. You may notice that I moved things around a little in the area to the right of the big wood, nothing special though and for sure not the final design (nothing is final anyway).

That's it for now,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Tank Today



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Post InfoPosted 23-Jul-2007 02:04Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Beautiful as always, L_F,
but what is going on with A. reineckii? It is still a small group. Is it still affected by 'black water' as you suggested several weeks ago?
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To me it looks wider, and not as tall. Must be doing some growing to get a trimming.

Looks great LF. I had similar problems with my water lettuce.



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No design or scape is ever final with you Ingo . Or me either for that matter .
I like what you've down on the right , and I'm sure you will improve it further yet .
The Tank looks very good as always .

Garry
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Hey Ingo,

Yeah I know what you mean about the Najas, sounds like the stargrass that grows so fast it only fits in for about 15 minutes until you have to trim. One of those plants I guess you use in a photo op when the timing is right, but not practical to keep long-term.

Tank looks very good. Tough to see any small changes in a full-tank shot since it's a 5-foot tank.

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This is turning into my favourite all time look for this tank. Very nice LF

Cheers
TW
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Wow, that looks AMAZING!!

How much time do you spend on it every week, would you say? I'm guess it takes a bit of work...
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Haven't visited your thread in a while, ingo, but man, looking good .
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Not you. The tank.
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LOL,

Really funny Cup, glad you like the looks of my tank better than mine, haha. Thanks for the compliment.

I am a little in a rush, but here are a few answers to the previous posts:

- catdancer - Matty is right, the Alternanthera had been trimmed when I moved them.
- Matty - Thanks.
- tetratech - Thanks for the compliment on the tank. I can't believe though that you don't remember that this is a 6' tank and not 5', LOL.
- Robyn - thanks so much.
- fishnewbie - These days I spend about 5 min feeding and ferting per day, and between 2 to 4 hours of maintenance on one day of the weekend, usually Saturday, on the tank.

Next post is a quick weekly update,

Ingo


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Weekly Tank Update - Week 96

Not much going on, very good so as I don't have any time anyway.

Overall, the tannis are lessening, and plant growth is fine. I forgot to mention last week that I replace the two 6,700K PCs with new one, I somehow think the old ones were almost two years on the tank.

I did only minor trimming this weekend, one group of pearl grass and the Najas Indica.

That's it for now,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 96 - 7/29/2007



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Post InfoPosted 30-Jul-2007 00:03Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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If you get a chance next week while taking pics, I'd like to see some closer shots on the tank, like in thirds or something for more detail. It's a little hard to tell what's going on separate from the whole. In that aspect, however, it does look good.

Were the 2 year old bulbs the ones that run all day or only for a short burst?

My short burst bulb is probably 2ish years old now and I don't see too much problem with that. I'd want to replace the one that's on all day at a year.



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Post InfoPosted 30-Jul-2007 02:09Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
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Ingo , I agree with Matty .
I know you're busy but a few more detail shots would be great .

Garry
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Hi,
I have two CFs on my tank. One is on for 10hours/day and
the second for only 4 hrs/day. When I replace them, I
put the 4 hour light in the 10 hour socket, and the new
bulb in the 4 hour socket.

Frank

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Post InfoPosted 31-Jul-2007 02:31Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
fishmonster
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Love the tanks ingo, keep up the good work

Shane

Thanks for your input as always, Shane
http://thetanklog.blogspot.com/ - [ Thanks to ScottF ]
http://www.natureaquariumclubofutah.com/main.html
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Thanks guys for the input, detail shots have to wait until I have more time and until the last remains of the tannins are gone and growth is back to normal. Until then:

Weekly Tank Update - Week 97

All looks ok, nothing special going on in the tank. By now I have found 3 shrimp outside the tank, dead of course. Inside the tank I cannot find even one of the about 20 that I added overall. Probably went into the category "food".

That's it for now, will also post a shot of the 20 and 29,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 97



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mujacko2002
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no more updates?

Star of the stormy sea of my mortal life, may your light shine upon me so that I do not stray from the path that leads me to heaven.
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All looks ok, nothing special going on in the tank. By now I have found 3 shrimp outside the tank, dead of course. Inside the tank I cannot find even one of the about 20 that I added overall. Probably went into the category "food".


Amanos are pretty crazy shrimp. As you probably have noticed they can walk around on dry/slightly wet surfaces. Most other shrimp I have had to net don't do that. When I put all my cherries in the little tank along with my Amanos, the Amanos came up missing. One was found in the back of the filter but the rest where gone. I am guessing they tried to relocate. I never did find any bodies either...

BTW I am in NC now. The move was not fun. I will explain later if you want some of the details.

55G Planted tank thread
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no more updates?


Sure, more updates to come, but I have been in the home country for almost 2 weeks and just got back this weekend.

So quickly:

(Almost) Weekly Tank Update - Week 99

As mentioned, I have been away and the neighbor took care of feeding and fert adding. Went pretty well, the tank sure showed some growth. In particular the Najas indica was all over the tank as the strands got too long and floated around and got stuck in the other plants.

Here is today's shot, after the trimming, nothing special:

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 99



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fishmonster
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Ingo

I hope ya had a good time in the home country, we missed ya updates my friend. Tank is looking good. Glad nothing went wrong while you were gone.

Thanks for your input as always, Shane
http://thetanklog.blogspot.com/ - [ Thanks to ScottF ]
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Ingo , welcome home . We certainly missed you around here . Hope you had a nice trip and glad to see everything went well with the Tank.
Garry
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Thanks all, now I am late again as I spent the weekend on the beach and have to do the updates today:

Weekly Tank Update - Week 100

Not such a special week, and I have one shot only anyway, no time for more.

Not much changes, one already bad looking Rainbow is MIA, I think he went to fish heaven (and belly of others).

I trimmed the Alternanthera and the pesky Najas indica, and that was it, plus water change of course.

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 100



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catdancer
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What did you do with the beautiful Alternanthera? The little red bush looked so nice.
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Weekly Tank Update - Week 101

catdancer - The Alternanthera is still there, it just needs some trimming once in a while and when that is done, like last week, then it is not visible for a while.

The tank has finished its hosting of the Nana Petites for the 29G - that tank is redone now (go check if you haven't yet). So the sticks and plants are out from the opening, Pearl grass has been trimmed (pieces are also in 29), and that was that, besides the water change.

Here is the tank today,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 101



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fishmonster
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Tank is doing well i see Ingo, Glad to see the Alternanthera is comming back.

Thanks for your input as always, Shane
http://thetanklog.blogspot.com/ - [ Thanks to ScottF ]
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Weekly Tank Update - Week 102

Thanks fishmonster for the input.

Not much happened to this tank this week as well, just some minor trimming and the planting of some baby swords (previously at the shoot on the sword in front of the Alternanthera) in the open valley. All is getting a little messy by now, ferns start to shade the anubias to the point that they die off. Trimming needs to be done, but I have no time for it.

Here is the tank,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 102



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Weekly Tank Update - Week 103

Nothing happened, a little trimming here and there, and that was that, LOL.

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 103



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Your tank is starting to look pretty wild. I understand the lack of time thing. The Brazilian Penny Wart looks pretty neat. I am tempted to try it in my set up. I feel like I need a few stems in it.

What is the report on the fish in this tank?

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Post InfoPosted 17-Sep-2007 02:18Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
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Weekly Tank Update - Week 104

First of all, thanks for the input, Wings

Fish in the tank are getting less and less as I let the group of Espei die out. I think it is an old age thing as these guys are with me for up to 2 years now. I wait until the group is really small, then I may actually replace the substrate in the tank. This way I don't have to store too many fish in other tanks.

On to the weekly thing, not much happened. Just some minor trimming and a water change.

Here is the shot,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 104



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Post InfoPosted 24-Sep-2007 00:51Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
mattyboombatty
 
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From here, I really like the look of what's going on in the center/just left of center. I'd like to see what's going on there in some detail. Looks very neat. Nice and healthy.



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Post InfoPosted 24-Sep-2007 01:39Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
Countryfish
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Ingo , yes I agree with Matty , a detailed look at all parts of this tank would be fantastic,
when you get some time .
Garry
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Fish in the tank are getting less and less as I let the group of Espei die out.

Uhm, I thought the espei are breeding in this tank and this way should replemish the pool of younger fish or did I miss something?
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Interesting about the fish. I wonder why that's happening. Probably because your not a beginner anymore

My Scapes
Post InfoPosted 25-Sep-2007 16:17Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Probably because your not a beginner anymore


No, that is not the reason, although I actually was hoping that I went from beginner to intermediate like about a year ago.

I simply want to reduce the hassle if I should decide to do an all-out makeover.

The Espei have been breeding in this tank with great success, but since adding the Apistos and Rainbows less and less fry made it to adulthood. Apistos are excellent hunters for small stuff, they stalk the food first and then shoot forward.

Also, over two years with the same large school is getting boring.

Detail shots - nah, not at the moment. I need to change quite a few things before I believe that details should be shown.

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 25-Sep-2007 18:40Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Weekly Tank Update - Week 105

Not much has changed this week in the tank, I did some minor trimming and a little more on the Pennywort which seems to have become too much (shading of other plants).

See, with all that stuff, I completely forgot that the tank celebrated its 2 year anniversary on the 24th of September. This means that tetratech's 72G is also 2 years old, congratulations!

Here is the tank,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 105



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Wow! I can't believe you have had this tank for two years. It has gone through a ton of changes. Would you happen to have time to highlight the different stages for us?

55G Planted tank thread
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Post InfoPosted 30-Sep-2007 19:11Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
Countryfish
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Ingo , And I read everone of those entries befor I started my Tank
Congrats on the anniversary .

Garry

PS , A recap would be fantastic , great suggestion Wings .
He said hopefully
G
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Weekly Tank Update - Week 106

Ok, based on popular demand, , I give you a quick review. I decided not to search for the prettiest pictures of the last 106 weeks, but to go strickly in 10 week intervals (with the exception of week 100, where I didn't even have a picture, there I selected the week earlier, 99)

Here we go:

This is week 0, meaning the tank had just been set up:

Attached Image:

Week 0



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Post InfoPosted 07-Oct-2007 21:53Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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What can I say, it was a classic beginners layout, typical plants, and what not. AND OF COURSE NOT ENOUGH PLANTS.

So the next ten weeks were spent in algae control, adding and removing fast growers, and what not, LOL.

Here is week 10:

Attached Image:

Week 10



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Post InfoPosted 07-Oct-2007 21:55Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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By week 20, the tank has changed for the umptieth time already, I always had to mess with it. based on NowherMan6's suggestion I added some wood to the tank.

Attached Image:

Week 20



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Post InfoPosted 07-Oct-2007 21:57Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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I cannot believe that it is already over 85 weeks ago that I got this wood, time goes by when you are having fun (or you are busy).

By week 30, loads of Star Grass were growing in the tank, just to keep it stable. Maintenance meant trimming of this plant every other week, with the complete removal of the stems and throwing out the old bottoms. What a pain!

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Week 30



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Conceptually, week 40 saw still the same tank, the most stability ever since setup.

I added a few more plants, but the structure stayed.

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Week 40



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By week 50 I started playing with the scape a little again, trying to make it look somewhat good. I don't think it worked to well, but it kept me busy

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Week 50



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But not for too long, as by week 60 the Island layout was already established, .

I just now notice how much Alternanthera I had in there, and this gigantic Barteri.

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Week 60



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More plants have been added by week 70 and the island became more integrated with the rest of the tank. The Blyxa on the left is just floating up, it wasn't really that tall.

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Week 70



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Week 80 is still similar to week 70, another period in the life of this tank that hasn't seen too many changes in short sequence.
Note how much the needle leaf fern has grown in the last 20 weeks.

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Week 80



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Every period of rest (aka stabil tank) has a period of change (aka redo), that is the Ingo way of having many tanks in one box.

Week 90 saw the currently last major redo, with the addition of a giant chunk of wood and such.

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Week 90



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Not too much has changed then over the next 9 weeks, so here at week 99 things are still similar, with the exception of the removal of the last remains of the previously glorious Barteri (last shot on the way left).

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Week 99



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And last but not least, here is the tank today. Still very similar to the previous 19 weeks, I just don't have the time to rip it apart again. Or to actually scape this monster.

Hope you enjoyed the review,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 106



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Thanks for posting all the pictures! It is pretty crazy how much our tanks change. My personal favorite is week 60. I think that it was a well designed layout.

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Ingo,

Thanks for showing the changes in the look of the tank over the two or so years you have had this going. Im glad that you and garry made me realise that putting both previous shots and new shots together you can really see the difference it makes each week or month.

Shane

Thanks for your input as always, Shane
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Ingo , Thank you , Thank you , Thank you . Like a trip down memory lane .
I actually love all the stages of this tank . I'm constantly amazed at how
good hardscape can disappear in even very well planned tanks . I must
admit that Wings choice is very stunning , I do like the island effect .
However my ( and I think yours as well ) constant need to meddle and try
new things means that the empty ( realitively) spaces get filled up in time .
Nothing wrong with that , its fun .
Can't wait to see what you do to change this scape in the future .

Thanks again for taking the time to do the review

Garry
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Thanks guys for the comments and your display of appreciation of the "Summary Effort"

Yeah, I for sure am not at a stage with this tank yet where I could give it a long rest and not bother messing with it, if it weren't for time limitations (need a whole day at least per makeover) and actually the concern of having fish. If I had no fish in this tank then I would redo it even more often as I would be able to take breaks during the process. And no, don't suggest that I could get holding tanks for the fish, I would get in trouble.

New ideas are forming in my head recently, but it is too early to speak them out loud.

Ingo


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Weekly Tank Update - Week 107

Not much maintenance has been done on the tank for yet another week, as such it is no wonder that it looks more and more like a jungle.

2 of my dwarf rainbows seem to reach the end of the line, similar to another one about 2 months ago. They are more or less just hanging and breath rather heavy. When this happens in small fish then it is usually a matter of days, but with the last rainbow it was an entire month. I will see.

Other, all is the same,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 107



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New Ideas , Ingo , come on lets us in on your thoughts
Surely you can house your fish in one of your other tanks .
There not over stocked from what I can see.
I can feel the 'Ingo" style redo can't be far away .


Garry
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2 of my dwarf rainbows seem to reach the end of the line, similar to another one about 2 months ago. They are more or less just hanging and breath rather heavy. When this happens in small fish then it is usually a matter of days, but with the last rainbow it was an entire month. I will see.
Sorry to hear about your rainbows. As you might remember, I didn't have great luck with them. It was a shame as I think they are really cool fish. How old do you think yours are? I wonder if they have short life spans.

55G Planted tank thread
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Weekly Tank Update - Week 108

Garry - it will take a while until an Ingo-Style make-over is coming up, I will have to change the 40G first and only then would find time for this one. Maybe within the next 5 months though.

Wings - My Rainbows (one died this week, 3 left and one looking poor) are about 2 years old. I do think that they don't have a long live span, at least not in my water settings. I have done no research though.

On to the tank:

I spent 3 hours on Saturday to get just the small left side in order, not really prettying it up, just making sure it does not become a total jungle. In particular the trimming/replanting of the HM took a looooong time. Next week I will try to do the mid/right section, but I am not sure if I will have the time for it.

Here is the tank,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 108



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Ingo , sorry to hear about your Rainbow . Understand the time issue , Just wanted
to know what you could possibly do to improve this marvelous scape .

Garry
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fishmonster
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Ingo

Sorry about the rainbows man. I have seen some upclose and they are really interesting fish and have some awesome color. I do like this scape. Infact im at the opposite of garry on this one and I think you should leave as is.

Shane

Thanks for your input as always, Shane
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Ingo, this is what I found:

Life span of rainbow fish: depends a bit on what you really have but the average estimate is 3 to 5 years with the bigger ones like the Boesemani topping it. It also depends where the fish are coming from and how inbred they are (inbreeding is only good for color, otherwise ...) and the conditions they were raised in (food, hormones, etc). Another factor might be water temperature: some rainbows require rather high temperatures like discus, while others stay healthy at moderate tropical aquarium temperatures. I don't know which ones you have. The Baensch, part 2 has some nice listings

Claudia



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Weekly Tank Update - Week 109

Thanks all for the input and concerns about the Rainbows. Claudia, I have Neon Dwarfs, as the name says they are small and as such probably on the shorter end of the lifespan scale. Another one is going to bite the dust rather sooner than later, but that is the way it is, we all have a limited lifespan.

Anyway, I was way too busy at work, I literally worked 26 hours straight (ok, I napped 20 min) into Saturday and as such found only time for the water change.

Here is the tank,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 109



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Weekly Tank Update - Week 110 and 111

Didn't have time to update last week, so here are both weeks. (seems like nobody cares anyway)

Week 110

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Week 110



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And here is the tank this week. Don't worry about the plant group in the open spot in the front, it is "on hold" for trading at the next NJAGC meeting this week.

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 111



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Nice job, what species of Hydrocotyle do you have growing in there?
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(seems like nobody cares anyway)

Ingo , Oh we care . We're just waiting for something to happen .

Garry
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(seems like nobody cares anyway)
I think that we all know how busy you are.

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I bet it would look spectacular in person. I doubt the FTS give it justice. Too much going on to take in one shot.



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They say it's a lifestyle and this tank reflects Ingo's. Busy and wild with a sort of reckless abandon. I'm envious

My Scapes
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Terrible having to work such long hours but at least you get to come home to a really cool and peaceful looking tank. I can only dream of having a big tank all fully planted like that.
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Weekly Tank Update - Week 112 and Week 113

Thanks guys for the input.

You will have to live with FTSs for a while longer, I am just not in the groove to get the details all worked out, LOL.

Here is a shot from week 112, a week ago from today. As you can see, more of the same "Busy and wild with a sort of reckless abandon", right tetratech?



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Week 112



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And here is a shot from today, week 113.

As you may note, a few things on the right side have changes, I will let you do the detailed comparison.

Let's just say that "other changes" made me do it.

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 113



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EditedEdited by lotec25
The tank looks Gorgeous. I am new here so i don't have a lot of input. I like the look of all the the pictures i have been reading this thread for 2 days now. And i am going to steal some ideas from you.
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What did you do with all of your ferns? Are they going to the club? The right side looks much better. I am not sure what the other changes are though....

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Ingo , Very tidy , dare I say it a very different look on the right compared to the left . Still thats right up my alley so I love it .


Garry
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Weekly Tank Update - Week 114

Thanks guys for the input.

lotec25 - Welcome
Wings - I guess you figured out by now what the "other changes" are, aka 40G
Garry - thanks for being so patient and giving me your input although I shine with neglecting your thread

Otherwise, nothing new, didn't have the time to tidy up the left side, maybe some other week.

Here is the tank,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 114



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Dang that's a stunning tank !
That last pic is great and it's interesting how you're almost back to that island thing except it's shifted over. The first island shot is my fave. I'm having a hard time finding needle-leaf java fern around here.

The Amazon Nut...
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Weekly Tank Update - Week 115

DaMossMan - hi there, long time no see

Actually, I think this tank resembles a Dutch layout the most of all my tanks, although not fully.

On to the uptate itself:

I did manage to put the left side of the tank into a more ordered layout, with new plants being Rotala clippings from the new 40G layout and Bolbitis from the old 40G layout, having been stored in a bucket with water for over 2 weeks. It is still rather small and may not take off at all, but we will see.

Here is the full tank:

Attached Image:

Week 115



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I am aware that the middle section now needs to be "cleaned up", but I am not in a rush.

Here is a closer look at the left half,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Left Half



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Little_Fish,

What are the red/green plants on the right and left side? i am looking for something like that for our 55 gallon to add some color to it.

Tank looks amazing i have been looking for a local aquarium group in my area still have not found one. I look how your tanks look just don't know if i want to run CO2 yet.

Rob
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LF,

The tank looks a lot better with the left side cleaned up. How many different plants do you have in there now? It seems to be getting to quite a few.

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Hi LF!

This is the first time i've seen your tank + log and lemme tell ya! It is Very Gorgeous. The closest thing im going to have to that is my Nano tank im setting up after christmas. This tank is an inspiration and i hope you keep it up!

Sincerely, Goby

Ps; Sorry for the loss of them rainbows! Thats too bad that they live <5 yrs! Hope they breed for you, and habe generations of rainbows!

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Thanks for a detailed shot LF, that is one whopper of an apisto in the front there. It's much easier to see what's going on the left side now. Looks great to me .



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Countryfish
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Ingo , Ahhhh...our friend has reappeared ( I'm not game to use his name after your
comments in your 40 log). I must say this scape is now taking on a very different
aspect from the last few months . Could this be a new Ingo ... graudual change over
instant redo ... I don't believe it yet
Anyway enough fun I love the look, there is some focus again , but if I may be
permitted a small criticism...gulp... it still needs more IMO. Not sure what you have
in mind , but after seeing the amazing things you've done in your other tanks ,
I can't wait to see what you do next . Looking forward to it

Garry
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Weekly Tank Updates - Week 116 and 117

Thanks guys for the input, here are some answers to your questions:

lotec25 - Rob, the red plants on the left and right are Alternanthera reineckii, I hope that's the plant you meant. Yeah, a local club is a good thing, I hope you find one.

Wings - No idea how many plant species are in there, maybe around 15, but I am just guessing.

GobyFan2007 - What? This is the first time you see this log? How can one miss it? LOL - Thanks for the input and the compliments though, I hope it helps you with your setup.

Matty - The apisto is of course my male viejita II, the pride of this tank. He and his lady are truly beautiful fish and I am glad I bought them based on the advise received from a knowledged employee at the LFS, there they were all gray and sad looking, about 2 years ago.

Garry - Given that you have done a great job on your super-sized tank you are permitted to "a small criticism" any time . LOL. The reason for smaller changes on this tank rather than one monster change is very simple: TIME. It would take me way too long these days to redo the tank completely, but trust me, I have thought about it. At some point I may do this, but not now.

Here is a shot from last week:

Attached Image:

Week 116



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Basically, I did nothing with regards to the plants over the last two weeks, instead I let it all settle. As such, this weekend's shot is the same than last weekend's, but with some plants showing some growth.

Thanks again for the input,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 117



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Post InfoPosted 24-Dec-2007 15:43Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Weekly Tank Updates - Week 118 and 119

Week 118 has not seen many changes at all, just some trimming of the Rotala and the Alternanthera. I didn't get around to do something about the HM hedge on the right front.

Here is the picture:

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Week 118



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Post InfoPosted 07-Jan-2008 02:05Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Now this week I did find the time to trim the HM, and I added a few more bunches of Nana Petites to the layout. They are probably not in their final spots though as I did not have the time to think it through yet.

That's it,

Have fun,

Ingo

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Week 119



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Post InfoPosted 07-Jan-2008 02:06Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
saltnewbie
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EditedEdited by saltnewbie
lol i remember this thread like 2 years ago when is topepd posting here.

good to see its still going.

edit, wut happened to taht other thread that was almsot as long as yours little fish??

his name was tetra tech or something. he had a 90 gal i think.
Post InfoPosted 07-Jan-2008 06:15Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
Wingsdlc
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LF,

Your tank is looking much less like a jungle and more like you are planning things out. I like it!

55G Planted tank thread
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[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
Post InfoPosted 07-Jan-2008 13:40Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
Countryfish
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Wings ...I agree ...looks much better . I still like to see the river/beach cleaned out . Would bring back the focus that the tank had a while ago.

Still the most beautifull tank I've seen at FP however .

Garry
Post InfoPosted 08-Jan-2008 06:00Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Weekly Tank Update - Weeks 120 and 121

Thanks folks for the input, saltnewbie - that was tetratech's tank, he moved on to better things, LOL.

Wings and Garry, thanks for the compliments!

Week 120 has seen no changes except a water change, here is the picture:

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Week 120



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Post InfoPosted 21-Jan-2008 01:37Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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During the current week I added some bunches of R. rotundifolia from the 40G as I had then left over after making more ground for the HC there.

I also removed a few plants from the open spot as they went to the NJAGC meeting with me for trades.

Here is the tank for now,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 121



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Post InfoPosted 21-Jan-2008 01:39Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Countryfish
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Ingo ...Nearly ... just a bit more out of the beach . Looks fantastic as usual.

Garry
Post InfoPosted 21-Jan-2008 02:28Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
bratyboy2
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l,il fish omg wow i have not been on the site in so long and just glanced back to see the tank now i can honestly say it has never looked better wow i wish i was you lol
Post InfoPosted 25-Jan-2008 03:39Profile AIM Yahoo PM Edit Delete Report 
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Weekly Tank Updates - Weeks 122 and 123

Garry and bratyboy2 - Thank you guys so much for the feedback!

Well, lots of nothing happened in the last two weeks, some minor trimming happened on the left section of the HM, and that was all last week. Here is the shot:

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Week 122



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Post InfoPosted 04-Feb-2008 00:58Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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And even less happened this weekend, LOL. As in: absolutely nothing, not even a water change (no time yet).

Here is the tank from this weekend,

Have fun,

Ingo

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Week 123



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Post InfoPosted 04-Feb-2008 00:59Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
catdancer
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Ingo,

I really like the tank as it is (especially the A. reineckii spreading out). The only plant I would trim is the HM hedge in front if I am allowed to suggest.
Post InfoPosted 04-Feb-2008 05:25Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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LF,

I haven't responded to your logs in a while though I do stop in pretty often.

Do you happen to have any tricks up your sleeve for growing Alternanthera reineckii. I got a few stems about a month ago and they don't seem to be doing really well yet. When I first got them the lost quite a few leaves. Now the new leaves are growing in pretty small. How long after a trim does it take for them to settle in?

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[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
Post InfoPosted 13-Feb-2008 01:03Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Weekly Tank Update - Weeks 124 and 125

Thanks catdancer and wings for the input. Some answers will follow, but upfront a word on A. reineckii:

I do not have a trick up my sleeve, sometimes mine grow well and sometimes they don't. I currently have a situation where difformed leaved stems grow side by side with beatiful stems, no idea why.

Update week 124:

Not much happened that week, the Rotala on the left grew way too tall and had to be trimmed. And while I was at it I gave the HM some haircut, but not too much.

Here is the tank last weekend:

Attached Image:

Week 124



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Post InfoPosted 18-Feb-2008 15:18Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Then came this weekend, and I had a little more time available. I used it to re-organize most of the right side. Here is what I did:

Remove, trim, and replant all tops from the Alternanthera
Remove, trim, and replant all tops from the Lobelia cardinalis (small or normal form)
Remove, trim, and replant all HM on the right side of the tank
Remove, trim, and replant most of the Wisteria on the right side
Trim the Narrow leaf fern on the right side
Trim the Narrow leaf fern just a little on the main piece of wood
Trim the Pennywort on the main wood

Took quite a few hours, I have to say, as it also included a replacement of the head gasket on the 2028 which was leaking when the filter was turned off, an issue that some people already had as well. This of course also meant cleaning the filter itself, for the first time in months.

Here is the tank this weekend,

That's it,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 125



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Post InfoPosted 18-Feb-2008 15:28Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
mattyboombatty
 
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The side you got work done on looks fabulous! I know how long that HM can take to trim, remove, and replant. That's why I got into the habit of lawnmowering it. Looked horrible for two days, but I think it's a fair trade for the easy route.



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Post InfoPosted 18-Feb-2008 17:30Profile Homepage PM Edit Delete Report 
fishmonster
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LF

Im really impressed with this tank and some of the plants you have named off I am really impressed with and I think i am gonna have to go back and see what else you have added to this tank.....The question i do have is, could you give a detailed explanation on what you use to trim your tanks and some steps on how you achieve that or are those a LF Secret??? LOL

Thanks for your input as always, Shane
http://thetanklog.blogspot.com/ - [ Thanks to ScottF ]
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Post InfoPosted 18-Feb-2008 19:59Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Matty - yeah, I often use the hair cut method as well, but it is messy, in particular when having floating plants and a 125 where both arms are submersed to the arm pits,

In addition, after a few haircuts the bottom sections don't look all that good anymore.

fishmonster - Thanks for the compliments. What I use for trimming? A secret? No, not at all, but all plants need different styles of trimming, from simple cutting off stems to rhizome separation. All is common (aquatic) knowledge and can be read about on the web all over the place. Nothing special, for sure

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 19-Feb-2008 01:21Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Nice job with the clean up of the right side. Also thanks for the info on your A. reineckii. I am getting some new leaves in on mine but they are way smaller than the ones that melted off when I got it. Maybe they just need more time to settle in.

Up to your arm pits? I so understand what you go through! My 55G is the stand I made for the old 40 long. Lets just say I have to stand on a chair and hunch over to take care of my ET. It's a pain but it's slowly paying off. Maybe someday I will get pictures of it.

55G Planted tank thread
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[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
Post InfoPosted 19-Feb-2008 13:23Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
Countryfish
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Ingo ...Nice job..the tank is looking as good as I've ever seen it . Well done .

Garry
Post InfoPosted 20-Feb-2008 14:18Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Thanks guys for the input and compliments!

Now I just need to find enough time to beautify the left side a little more, at least the HM needs the same routine than the one on the right had last weekend.

Ingo


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Weekly Tank Updates - Weeks 126 and 127

Last week had seem the redo of most of the plants on the left side of the tank, similar to what I did the week before on the right side. It didn't take all that long though as less of a space needed to be handled.

Here is the tank last week:

Attached Image:

Week 126



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Post InfoPosted 03-Mar-2008 02:31Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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And this week the tank saw the final mayor trimming, this time it was the Rotala group on the left that was taken out and got the bottoms cut off before replanting.

I see already that the Alternanthera is getting to large again, so parts of the cycle will have to be repeated
Great!

That's it for now,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 127



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fishmonster
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Ingo

That Anthera is looking awesome. Also after what you said about looking online i found the ADA toolset but they were waaay to expensive.. What reasons are there for using those tools??

Is the emphasis on this tank almost like a mountain range of plants so that there is a large peak in the middle then dips, smaller peaks to the side then dipping again. That is what i am seeing from this tank.



Thanks for your input as always, Shane
http://thetanklog.blogspot.com/ - [ Thanks to ScottF ]
http://www.natureaquariumclubofutah.com/main.html
Post InfoPosted 04-Mar-2008 08:04Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Weekly Tank Updates - Weeks 128 and 129

Shane - Good tools go a long way in a planted tank, in particular good tweezers and scissors. But they don't have to be from ADA.

The tank has not seen any major changes for last weekend:

Attached Image:

Week 128



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Post InfoPosted 17-Mar-2008 01:15Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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And again no changes done for this weekend, except some minor glass cleaning for the NJAGC meeting.

That's it for now,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 129



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Post InfoPosted 17-Mar-2008 01:16Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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EditedEdited by countryfish
Ingo ...looking spectacular as usual ...don't know if its the glass cleaning but thats the sharpist photo of this tank in some time .

I still think the beach / river needs more defination , but other than that the Alternanthera looks amazing and really gives this scape a fantastic lift . Still my favourite .


Garry
Post InfoPosted 18-Mar-2008 11:38Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
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Weekly Tank Update - Week 130

Thanks for the comments Garry,

I am not sure what I would like to do with the river in the medium run, it ends at the wood now anyway as the road to the back is blocked by Nana petites.

Workwise, the tank has seen the trimming of ONE stem of Alternanthera, now that is what I call convenient maintenance, LOL.

Here is the tank today,

Have fun,

Ingo

Attached Image:

Week 130



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Post InfoPosted 24-Mar-2008 00:28Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Wingsdlc
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I am guessing that it is just the picture but the tank looks extra dark.

I am really quite surprised that this tank hasn't seen a make-over in quite a while. I guess you have been too busy with other things.

55G Planted tank thread
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[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
Post InfoPosted 24-Mar-2008 13:21Profile AIM PM Edit Delete Report 
LITTLE_FISH
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Yes Wings, the tank is not really that dark, but having larger plants now then a few weeks back for sure makes a difference. and that is being picked up by the camera 10 fold.

Also, I still play with post-shot processing

Ingo


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Post InfoPosted 24-Mar-2008 14:53Profile PM Edit Delete Report 
Wingsdlc
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Yeah that was kind of my guess. I can't wait to see an updated picture. It has been quite a while. Hope all is well!!

55G Planted tank thread
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[IMG]http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/Wingsdlc/Ric
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