Cloudy Water Problem

[dunh2]

Here is my predicamant... I started my tank about 3 months ago, followed all the rules. Only got a few fish at a time. My tank went through its cycle apparently. I had no problems but some algae which was cleared up by a chemical treatment. Now after about 3 months I have five 3-5 inch fish and two suckers about the same size in my 50 gallon tank. I clean the tank regularly, about once a week maybe two, I don't over feed everything gets eaten, and I have the murkiest water you've ever seen. I tried using the algae clear again, as well as a particulate to help clear cloudy water. Neither are doing the trick. The water will clear up a little with a water change, but goes right back to cloud after a day or two. What the heck do I have to do to keep a clear tank and what could the problem be.

Thanks everyone - Grady

 

[BobK]

Do you know what your nitrate levels are? High nitrates can cause algae blooms because it is essentially a fertilizer. Nitrate is the end product of the nitrogen cycle. Nitrates are normally removed when you do your PWC's, but if the water you add back to the tank has high nitrates in it, then you could have a problem. It is possible for tap water to have high nitrates so you might want to test it. Also, live plants will use the nitrates as fertilizer so there is less left over for algae.

Is the problem you are having green water? If not, cloudy water can be caused by ammonia also.

If you have a problem with particulates what type of media are you using and could it be clogged up?

Can anyone give dunh2 some more advice?

 

[tekknocolor]

Cloudy water - green/white/yellow

The above link displays three different types of cloudy water. Each with their own causes, explanations, preventions, and solutions.

You will need to assess what your tank conditions are and what your water parameters are before treating. If you continue to have problems, update us on the situation.

HTH

 

[dunh2]

The water in my tank is white cloudy water. After reviewing the notes left by a few people I'm leaning towards the ammonia or nitrate levels being off. How do I go about checking this?

Thanks - Grady

 

[gale]

Buy a test kit from your lfs. Make sure it has tests (not strips, but liquid tests) for ammonia, nitrites and nitrates, at the very least. Then do the tests and see what your water parameters are.

 

[tekknocolor]

I would suggest a masters test kit - this is usually around 15 dollars and last a lifetime.. I've had mine for about 8 months and haven't even put a slight dent into it. Make sure it has a solution for ammonia, PH, nitrite, nitrate and everything else is a luxury. I ordered mine from here:Master Test Kit
But they only service in the US or Canada. But I would definitely recommend something similar if you don't live in either areas.