Tank smells like rotten sushi

[JAYBIRD1011]

I’m not going to muddy the water with any more fix advice. I just want to say PLEASE read the sticky threads at the top of the page. I have kept aquariums for years and I learned a lot about how to care for my beautiful fish that I didn’t know before. It was always so confusing when I had problems. These sticky threads are there because they cover a lot of experience and knowledge. It will help you. Don’t get discouraged and give up. Once you get it, you’ll get it! This is a great hobby and very rewarding. Welcome to MFK!!

 

[BIG-G]

I’m not going to muddy the water with any more fix advice. I just want to say PLEASE read the sticky threads at the top of the page. I have kept aquariums for years and I learned a lot about how to care for my beautiful fish that I didn’t know before. It was always so confusing when I had problems. These sticky threads are there because they cover a lot of experience and knowledge. It will help you. Don’t get discouraged and give up. Once you get it, you’ll get it! This is a great hobby and very rewarding. Welcome to MFK!!

Well said!

 

[bobblehead27]

I think you guys scared him away... Lol

 

[Fat Homer]

I think you guys scared him away... Lol

I have a feeling the overwhelming responses may have put OP off a little bit, but hopefully still comes back after the problem has been rectified...

 

[TwoHedWlf]

I'd get rid of one of the oscars and the JD and keep the pleco. I love plecs.

 

[Supergeorge123]

He adopted the fish, if he gets rid of them they face either certain death or life in a 29 gallon. Thats the reality of 99% of these species sold. The solution to the smell is activated carbon and twice weekly water changes.

 

[BIG-G]

He adopted the fish, if he gets rid of them they face either certain death or life in a 29 gallon. Thats the reality of 99% of these species sold. The solution to the smell is activated carbon and twice weekly water changes.

You are correct as far as the quick fix for the odor.
The information post earlier by several different people was an attempt to solve the problem permanently as well as education for proper long term care.
Although It may have been a little overwhelming to the OP

 

[Aquatic Aggression]

Nah the solution to most immediate probelems was simply raising the water level. That missing 40 gallons would have diluted the smell, increases filter intake and output, and made that heater safe.

People cant seem to keep it zipped when people are overstocked and you cant blame them. Its the first realization of a successful keeper. I think it would have been more effective if people had links on hand regarding the pleco instead of telling people to get rid of their new fish lol. I think the 3 large cichlids would have been fine long term with a filter upgrade and a big weekly waterchange.