New Tank When Change Water

[automike]

hi i have setup my new 125 litre tank and my old fish seem to be doing well in new tank , how soon should i do a 25 % water change im wanting to do one now
but i thought i would ask you guys first
thanks for any help

forgot to say what about filter it is a big vita tech 500 do i pull debri and squeeze out or leave alone
regards mike

 

[OldMan47]

Welcome to the forum Automike.
I would start by moving the old filter over to the new tank. It will have the bacteria needed to support your existing fish. A large, 50% water change is likely needed unless you used an artificial ammonia source to cycle the new filter on your 125 for a month or more before moving the fish. Start by measuring the ammonia and nitrites in the 125 using a liquid type test kit and if you find any measurable amount of either chemical, the water change becomes a must.

 

[discus_lover]

welcome to our forum....what is your ammonia,ph level,nitrite and nitrate level of your tank?accodring to this factor i'll suggest you how often you change this partial water change....

 

[automike]

thanks all for your help , i got our aquarium shop to test water it came out low for all levels .
they recommended a 20% change , after doing an amonia test myself which came out very low but not zero i did water change .
the fish all seem well and very happy to be in larger tank .

i think they should not be allowed to sell tanks under 80 litres to people as this size seems very unstable and i think its cruel to fish , what do you all think
regards mike

 

[JustFrozen]

i think they should not be allowed to sell tanks under 80 litres to people as this size seems very unstable and i think its cruel to fish , what do you all think
regards mike

20 gallons and above sure makes it easier, but it's not too difficult to keep a stable, properly cycled tank for many sizes below

 

[divegirl]

Sounds like your doing just fine
That said. it really is worth buying your own test kit....works out cheaper and more convieniant in the end!
You can do as many water changes as you want [especially if your ammonia is high] as it won't effect the bacteria in your filter, just makes things more comfortable for the fish. Your water stats need to be zero, not just low, so I'd leave the filter alone for now and just keep up water changes. Clean your filter media in old tank water only when you notice the flow start to be affected.

Lisa x

 

[automike]

thanks divegirl that was the exact info i needed
thanks to all for help