Old tank - really cloudy

[tankmates]

Would adding three API Root Tabs to a 20 gal. established tank cause the water to suddenly cloud? I added low light plants about three weeks ago and all has been going very well. Plant growth has been slow, but the tank had been crystal clear (the same way that it has been for years.) There is a 30W triton bulb over the tank.

It stays at 77 degrees and the ph is 7.8. The tank is occupied by guppies (40) and corydoras (6), there is a piece of driftwood with algae and java fern attached.

I have done several large water changes, but the water remains cloudy. Most of the fish seem unaffected, however, I believe several are stressed. The tank is currently filtered by an undergravel filter (I know) with two lift tubes. I added an HOB filter this evening, hoping that it would help to clear the water.

Should I be worried? Old tank syndrome? Any comments would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

 

[Adhlc]

Those API Root Tabs are crap, the second they hit water, they begin to dissolve into a brown cloud.

 

[tankmates]

Thank you for the response. I wish I had known prior to adding them to the tank. I guess it could be worse, I could have added the suggested 6 tabs instead of 3.

 

[Adhlc]

Heh, I added all 10 tabs at once... my tank was instantly brown. Try Seachems root tabs.

 

[tankmates]

Thanks. The water cleared after running the HOB and siphoning out as much left over tablet as possible. Anybody need 37 Root Tabs?