Newbie Advice - What Hope Is There?

[JenJ]

So I can understand the motivation of the lfs and manufacturers in not explaining fish-less cycling to newbie fish keepers,but I would have expected more from magazines.

I've just downloaded the new issue of a well-known UK fish magazine, and in the Newbie Q&A is a letter from someone who has been given a bare 28l tank, asking what else they need.

The answer includes 'filter bacteria' which you 'buy in a bottle' and stocking recommendation is 5-6 neons and some guppies. Microrasboras are mentioned as being ideal for their tiny size, but then discounted as being 'too delicate'.

 

[techen]

You must understand that a lot of these "companies" sponsor stuff like this so it only makes sense in regards of money making.

 

[Lolly123]

It is a very frustrating thing within the hobby that really annoys me. Unfortunately as techen said, it's money orientated with a total lack of respect for the fish being sold. The only hope is forums like this and doing your own research.

 

[leighton_87]

So I can understand the motivation of the lfs and manufacturers in not explaining fish-less cycling to newbie fish keepers,but I would have expected more from magazines.
I've just downloaded the new issue of a well-known UK fish magazine, and in the Newbie Q&A is a letter from someone who has been given a bare 28l tank, asking what else they need.
The answer includes 'filter bacteria' which you 'buy in a bottle' and stocking recommendation is 5-6 neons and some guppies. Microrasboras are mentioned as being ideal for their tiny size, but then discounted as being 'too delicate'.

In fairness I have seen the same magazine advocating fishless cycles on many occasions.

I haven't read the magazine yet this month but if the bacteria has been recommended alongside a fishless cycle then I don't really see a problem with it - many haven't seen results but some (certainly not me by the way) swear by bacteria in a bottle and it certainly hasn't been proved not to work.

I agree with you about the stocking - some micro Rasboras would have been much better and it's funny they are being called delicate next to neons and guppys.