So I have this big tank that I bought at a garage sale a couple of years ago. It looks like about 90 gallons. It has a built-in drip filter in the rear section of the tank unseen by the black plexiglass background. This filter system has a reserve that fills from the over flow of the tank which in turn over flows onto the drip tray. Under the drip tray is two shelf type things to seperate media. After flowing through this area it fills another reserve and is then pumped back into the tank. I want to set up a fresh water tank with a couple of oscars. So my questions are...
1. In my research, I haven't been able find a definite answer on what type of media to use for this bio filter sytem. It looks like the previous owner was using some plastic balls and some ceramic pieces on the first shelf and then a piece of foam on the bottom shelf. I think these are in bad shape and need to be thrown out. Is this really what I need? Some people say that I do not need the foam but I need some activated charcoal. I don't know. And where do I get these items to fit the custom size of the filter, about 4.5in x 16in?
2. Is this one powerhead that replenishes the water back into the tank sufficient to circulate enough oxygen throughout the tank.
3. How long do I need to let this new tank run before I can add the fish I want?
That's all I have for now. I am sure there will be more later as I become an active member of this community.
Hopefully, you people can help me out since it's obvious I can't help myself.
1. In my research, I haven't been able find a definite answer on what type of media to use for this bio filter sytem. It looks like the previous owner was using some plastic balls and some ceramic pieces on the first shelf and then a piece of foam on the bottom shelf. I think these are in bad shape and need to be thrown out. Is this really what I need? Some people say that I do not need the foam but I need some activated charcoal. I don't know. And where do I get these items to fit the custom size of the filter, about 4.5in x 16in?
2. Is this one powerhead that replenishes the water back into the tank sufficient to circulate enough oxygen throughout the tank.
3. How long do I need to let this new tank run before I can add the fish I want?
That's all I have for now. I am sure there will be more later as I become an active member of this community.
Hopefully, you people can help me out since it's obvious I can't help myself.