conditions
drews at webgate.net
Wed, 2 Oct 1996 20:53:38 -0400
Gail-I can only tell you what my conditions are like. Everybody's are different.
Your fish will "tell" you when you have it right. Sometimes my fish look ok and
other days they are unbelievable! recently I was unable to perform my weekly
water change on my 65 gal all male tank. I was concerned about the water
quality, but all the males were flashing and displaying and looked beautiful! I
don't plan to do this on a regular basis but, if I ever take photos I may just
forgo that weekly change.
Here are my water parameters:ph:7.4; 10dgh; 5dkh; nitrite-5mg/l and temp. 24C
I don't do anything other than add 5ml of salt/14l of water. Some folks have to
mess with their water but I seem to be lucky in that bows seem to generally like
my conditions.
As for tank setup, IMO dark gravel is best; lower light allows better colour
display; lots of plants(for hiding) combined with an open swimming area(for
schooling); strong water circulation( many bows are stream or river dwellers);
"long" tanks as opposed to "high",to provide swimming room; and schools of fish
rather than one or two to allow the fish to feel more secure. A repeat on water
temp: 24C. I find my fish like it on the cooler side. I very rarely suffer
disease problems, although like everyone else I do occassionaly have bouts of
the dreaded U things!
More questions? You know where to find me:-)
Chris
ps.food also plays a large role. I believe I've already posted a note on what I
use. Did you check Legget and Merricks book for homemade receipes?