soliver

So i have decided that im going to get into breeding. Mainly African Cichlids. Started to build the racks but there far from done. In the end, there will be 2 walls of racks. Wall 1- nine 33 gallon tanks Wall 2- six 58 gallon tanks + one 55 gallon tank Here is a picture of what one of the racks looks like so far. My plan is to enclose the tanks so they all look like picture frames. Will have flaps(wood) on hinges covering the open space above the tanks.

I always thought it was "Mad Tank Syndrome" You learn something everyday.

i would say drain the 2 big ones and then move the 55. You can move it when its 1/4 full. Just had to do it myself. Depending on the fish in the tank. But it might become a hassel. It all depends on what you think would be best for your little friends.

Sure is

Was bored so i decided to try and get a couple shots.

Ya i think they will. Put them closer to the back so there is still acess to the tanks.

So i just got back from home depot, and they have 4' shop light strips with 2 bulbs for $15.95. I think ill put 2 of them on each row and go from there.

Ill have to go take a look at them. Don't need a lot of light. Just enough to see the fish.

Thanks, I might just go take a look at that. I will have the tanks completely enclosed once i get both racks built. Just want to get the basics done so i can start cycling the tanks before i worry about the fancy stuff.

Thanks. I was hoping i could find something cheaper for lights. More a DIY from home depot or something like that. I don't have to worry about the ones on the floor because i have a python. Best thing i ever bought. I cant imagine doing a water change on a 210 gallon with 5 gallon pails.

I would love to see a turtle in a koi pond.

Im still in the middle of setting it up. There will be 2 walls like this. Wall 1 has nine 33 gallon tanks.(36x13x18) Wall 2 will have six 58 gallon tanks(36x18x21) + one 55 gallon tank(48x13x20) + cabinet to store stuff The rack will be getting trim as well as wood flaps to cover in between the tanks. Hopefully when im done the tanks will be enclosed like picture frames. This is the start of Wall #1

I have started setting up my racks for the new tanks. I have the stand built and the tanks in place cycling. Just wondering if anyone has any good DIY lighting tips. Just looking for normal lights. Nothing fancy. Will never have any plants in the tanks. Any help you can give me will be greatly appreciated. I will post pictures soon of the first rack.

I found that drift wood lowered my PH. Not sure how that would affect the fish but i know it would stress them out if there not used to it. Nitrite ready purple/pink when there is a lot. Normally it should be blue.

As i have noticed by the last couple pictures, you guys are striping your female before the eggs hatch. Is there an advantage to that? I move the female to her own tank, to reduce stress from other fish and let her hold for 2 weeks. When i strip her the babies are free swimming with tiny egg sacks. I have never lost a baby this way. I would think you would get better turn out because your not dealing with fungus. Is this a bad way to do it?

I don't think it would be that bad. If you like the fish they have then go for it. Only problem is, if you don't know what they are, then if you change your mind on a fish, its going to be very tough to sell it, as well as interbreeding. You won't be able to sell any of the fry either. If your ok with those 2 aspects then i say go for it.

I have an overflow as well as a skimmer. And i don't use the swingy arm thing. I use something that floats in my tank, giving me a reading on how boyant it is.

Congrats on the find. Love finding fry in my tank when im not expecting them. Almost like Christmas. Nice photo as well.

Welcome to AA. Do you have any pictures you would be able to share with us? How big is the tank?

Check this ad out. Might be a little bit more affordable. Not sure what it comes with exactly but it might be worth a call. http://www.buysell.com/root/detail/Edmonto..._sale_Tank.aspx

haha thats the way i felt when i got some. You will begin to get used to it and look past the barbs and at your other fish haha.

WOW. very nice pictures. the fish are fabulous. good choice.

Raise the temperature in your tank and continue to dose with salt. That should take care of the Ich.

Looks good. I was wondering in your sig which ones they were since they were there when i picked up the pleco, but i understand now.