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New IM SR-80: Stocking Thoughts?

1K views 3 replies 2 participants last post by  Pasfur 
#1 · (Edited)
Hi Everyone,

A year or so ago, I got back in to the hobby with my daughter and we've been successfully maintaining a small tank and we're ready to move up. I used to have several tanks when I was a kid and got to know the basics but we're making a much bigger jump than I ever have, so I'd appreciate any advice.

We purchased an Innovative Marine SR-80 and have been running a fish-less cycle for about 5 weeks. Parameters are 0-0-15 before a weekly water change, so I feel like we're in pretty good shape. Not much algae, plants all look healthy and everything inside the back chamber is nice and slimy.

I only have one heater (I live dangerously), but I have a bag of bio-balls in the other back chamber. Have the stock micron sock on one side and a tray on the other with charcoal and a polishing pad.

The way these tanks work, I'm really working with about 64 gallons of space in the tank itself.

We're planning on gradually stocking our tank to get to the following:

20 White Clouds
Pair of Angelfish (we're going to buy a group and our LFS will work with us once two pair up)
Pair of Bolivian Rams (will probably have to get lucky here, but I'm optimistic)
8 Julii Cory
2 Bristlenose Pleco

The tank set-up is pretty open with a nice driftwood arch in the middle and plants/small stones on either leg of the arch. I think I've got enough decent hiding places, but also have lots of open water.

Any thoughts on the stocking ideas? We're not wed to this but we've thought about it quite a bit. Any suggestions on the order we should introduce the fish? Anything you can think of that I'm screwing up?

Take care,
John
 
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#2 ·
John,

It sounds like you've really planned this well. I think you're going to have a very successful tank. Without question, I would introduce the White Clouds first. They will serve as great dither fish to make the Rams & Angelfish feel more comfortable and eat more aggressively.

Outside of that, I don't have much to add. You're ready to roll.
 
#3 ·
Thank you. I was a little concerned that the White Clouds, being cold water fish, wouldn't work, but my LFS seems confident and has a group in a heated tank. I think we're going to start stocking over Thanksgiving weekend. Any thoughts on how long I should wait after introducing the White Clouds? I guess it's just a matter of waiting until everything balances out again.
 
#4 ·
I think you've got this. I'd let the White Clouds cycle the tank, test for ammonia and nitrites. After the cycle is complete, move on to adding the other fish gradually.

Yes, White Clouds are "cold" water fish, but they tolerate a very wide range. They are probably the easiest fish on the planet to keep.
 
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