Advice On Setup Of 200 Litre Trop Tank

[kevlo]

Hi Guys and girls, im after some advice or direction to guides. I've searched the forum but cant seem to find a definative start up guide. I'm by no means a complete newbie as i've kept marine fish for the last 5 years but after being made redundant i sold my tank and I want to move to tropicals as its cheaper to run.

I have a 180 litre tank and i have the following equipment

- 1400ef+ external filter with built in UV
- 200w fluval heater

What else do i need? I believe i need an air stone of some description any recommendations?

I understand the cycling process as i believe its similar to marine but what do i test for just ph, ammonia, nitrate, and nitrite?

what are the easiest test kits to use?

How often do you require testing and water changes?

any help much appreciated

thansk
Kev

 

[matt_storey]

You dont NEED an airstone, just make sure the top of the waters disturbed enough

i always do a 25-50% water change weekly depending on how dirty the tank is.

API liquid test kits are the best in my opinion and i do a water test every week to tell me how much of a water change i need to do.


If you do want an air stone you will need an air pump something i can help with i have about 4 i need to sell