nitrate issue

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doug_sa

Feeder Fish
MFK Member
Feb 28, 2011
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TX
So I'm solving a nitrate problem (20ppm)by performing a water change and it was suggested that i take the carbon out...it's only 2 weeks old. Please elighten me as to why?

I didn't want to come across the wrong way to the guy at the lfs, I called them to make sure i was doing the right things.

Thanks...
 
i wouldnt consider 20ppm in a freshwater tank a real 'issue' unless you're dealing with really sensitive fish like discus, dont bother messin with the carbon just do a 25-50% WC and call it a day, as long as your ammo and nitrite are 0 u should be fine
 
carbon is no longer active if it's been in there 2 weeks, you can leave it in there for the BB to grow on, water change today, and again in 2 days, ought to clear up any issues.
 
NCStateFisher said:
i wouldnt consider 20ppm in a freshwater tank a real 'issue' unless you're dealing with really sensitive fish like discus, dont bother messin with the carbon just do a 25-50% WC and call it a day, as long as your ammo and nitrite are 0 u should be fine
Click to expand...

nitrates were higher - easily 30 ...I did 2 - 15% changes (last night and this am) and then I did 25-30% this afternoon....the nitrates are down around 10 . The tank is in a bright room so I am become acclimated to having to do changes more often to manage nitrates; i've been doing bi-weekly 15% changes and obviously not enough....the wife likes to make sure everyone is well fed.
nitrites and ammo are 0 and haven't been a problem... but the fish still seem to be breathing hard. I was just planning on letting things settle down for a bit b/c they have gone through quite a water quality change in less than 24hrs. I'll switch out the carbon for grins
Thanks for the help!
 
i was also wondering why the carbon isnt active? the guy at my lfs told me it is only good for a couple days and that he doesnt like it.
 
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