Confused

[TerraDreamer]

Personally, I'm more a fan of the filtration setup AquaClear uses, much more logical. These come with a sponge layer, an activated carbon layer (I leave it out unless removing meds) and a layer of ceramic media on top. When changing filter media, you only replace one piece at a time so you never kill off your bacteria colony. You can also buy filter media much cheaper this way as you aren't stuck using the factory cartridges.

I completely agree, it's a great filter. I never use the carbon (unless removing meds), instead I added another sponge in its place. A sponge can last for a very long time; use them until they fall apart!

Puffin3, you need to purchase a water test kit. This is a very good one...

Freshwater Master Test Kit

You should be testing the water on a daily basis during cycling, and depending on the results, should be prepared to do daily water changes of 10-20%. Use tap water and add dechlorinator before adding new water to the tank.

And I agree, the goldfish aren't a good match for the tank. They're very messy and require very large tanks. Also, they're a cold water fish. A better choice for cycling with fish are danios. As suggested, save goldfish for an outdoor pond.

I get why your confused. I started fish keeping 3 weeks ago and i am useually completly lost. From what I have learnt the good bacteria grows in the filter. Doing loads of water tests is bad for your tank because it constantly takes the good bacteria away. Ive been told that doing a 50% water change every 6 weeks is the best. Plus doing a water change every day will disrupt your fish. As for the crud on the bottom of the tank I use cat fish to keep it clean as they are bottom feeders. Sorry I couldent be much help.

In reply to your post...well...you're not even close to being correct anywhere here, other than the fact that bacteria grows in a filter.