Think I'm Ready for Some Fish

[jonto]

Ammonia and Nitrite are 0. Nitrate is at 8 after water change this morning. SG is at 1.025. Tank (75 gal with 70lbs Pukani) has been running since 8/11 and cycled since 8/25. On 8/31 I turned on the Oct1000 HOB skimmer, 2 Starlight led units, and the AquaClear 110 with sponge only.
Looking to get 2 Clowns, 1 Watchman goby, 2 shrimp, and some snails. There is no algae growing and the tank looks sterile. Anyone have other ideas for stock? I have to drive 60 miles to a LFS and as a 69 yr old fart veteran I don't like driving so want to get all I can in 1 trip. LOL

379007

[jonto]

You can refer to my 1st post: http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2649423

[jonto]

More tests show pH at 8.2 , KH at 6.5 , and Phos at .20
Should I get the KH up a little higher or will it adjust itself?
Jim

[der_wille_zur_macht]

Alkalinity is not going to make much of a difference for the types of (relatively hardy) fish you're talking about, so I wouldn't worry. The main thing it's going to contribute to your essentially fish-only tank is to help with pH stability.

That said, the only way it will change is if you change it (dose a supplement, do a water change) or if it is consumed in the tank (by growing corals or alkalinity). It generally won't adjust itself, at least not upwards.

That stock list sounds like a great starting point for a tank your size.

[jonto]

Hi folks,
Yesterday my readings were:
Amonia ........ 0
Nitrite ........ 0
Nitrate ........ 8
Last night I added a full 75 gal ammonia dose (4 drops per gal). Can't get to the LFS until towards the end of next week (60 miles away) to get any fish. Figured I might as well try it.
Anyway, tonights readings:
Ammonia ...... 0
Nitrite .......... 1+
Nitrate ......... 50
Will see how it takes to get back down.
Jim

[deputydawg88]

You'll need to do a water change to bring down your nitrate. If your tank is cycled, you don't need to continue dosing.

[jonto]

I agree. Next thing is to start building my stock.