sussexgirl
Fish Crazy
I'm glad you are getting things sorted, Sussexgirl.
4ppm of ammonia is still way too high. I'd advise a water change of at least 75% immediately, then another 75% change tomorrow. That should bring ammonia down to a more manageable for the fish, then continue with the 50% changes every day. Remember, the only safe level of ammonia is 0, so you need to get it as low as possible and keep it there until the filter is properly cycled.
Thats a shame your other tank isn't running. Do you have any friends or family with an established tank? If so, steal a bit of their filter media. It would help immensely. If you don't know anyone, have a look here for a willing TFF member near you.
Unfortunately, bad advice from an LFS is all too common. The thing is, the LFS always has an alterior motive, to make money. Always check on here if you are unsure where you will get friendly impartial advice from people who aren't trying to make a profit from you.
It would be interesting if you could monitor the ammonia level in the water butt, to establish for definite whether the bogwood does have a part to play in the ammonia problem. It would be good for your peace of mind too if you ever decide to put it back in the tank.
Keep us updated with your cycling and if you've any questions, just ask.
Good luck!
BTT
Thanks Backtotropical! I'll do a 75% water change this evening and just keep trying to get that level down. I think I'll wait a week and do an ammonia test on the water butt. When I took the bogwood out it didn't look in too bad a shape but I suppose you can never tell. I've just tested my ammonia level and it's down to 2 this morning.
Thanks again for all your help and advice.
