Showing posts with label cold water aquarium fish. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cold water aquarium fish. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

TOM Aquarium Auto Fill System stand-alone, connect 3/4 bulk head

TOM Aquarium Auto Fill System stand-alone, connect 3/4 bulk headI have a 100-gallon marine tank that had a lot of evaporation, making it difficult to be away from home for any length of time. This "reserve" tank keeps the pump from running dry. I only wish you could daisy chain multiple reserves for long vacations. (Friends are happy to stop by and feed the fish, but they don't want to lug water bottles around.)

Update, 3-11-2012: I had been carrying the tank around by its "feet" when I refill it--don't do it. It cracked around the screw hole and now leaks. It still works, but I can't turn it over until I get it into the reservoir, because it leaks. I tried sealing it, but it didn't work.

So far I haven't been able to get it to work. There aren't any helpful hints or handy tips to guide me. I have the tank set up with valves open but none of the water gets used when needed.. The water level in the auto fill system does rise when I turn off my sump filter so I know there is not an obstruction. I am going to try raising the elevation of the auto fill tank next. In theory, gravity will have a better chance then as right now the sump and auto fill are about even with each other on elevation. If it works, it will be great!

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Monday, November 17, 2014

Oceanic Systems Inc. Oc Biocube Replace Fan Biocube Replacement Fan For 8 & 14 Gal Filter Cartridges

Oceanic Systems Inc. Oc Biocube Replace Fan Biocube Replacement Fan For 8 & 14 Gal Filter CartridgesThe image to promote the fans leads you to believe that you will be getting Oceanic OEM fans. The reality is that you get fans that are thinner than original, with ball bearings that are noisier than the original. If one of your fans is going and you need something to replace them in a pinch, these will do, but if you're able to source either OEM or open market sleeve bearing (quieter) replacements, skip these. Also, the original ones draw .08A, these indicate a draw of .15A.

The fan was not the right size for the 8 gallon biocube. The fan was to thin so it rattles while it is on.

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it was just what I needed and expected. It Works like new and is very quiet. Thanks for the great product.

Read Best Reviews of Oceanic Systems Inc. Oc Biocube Replace Fan Biocube Replacement Fan For 8 & 14 Gal Filter Cartridges Here

Easy transaction, Item came as advertized, i replaced my old fan and i am no longer having problems. great deal!

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Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Tetra Half Moon Aquarium Kit, 10-Gallon

Tetra Half Moon Aquarium Kit, 10-GallonI used to own a number of tanks and my dad bred fish when we were growing up, so we had as many as 30 tanks in our house at once. I finally convinced my wife to get a tank for our children, which we wanted to fit on their tall dresser in their bedroom. The regular rectangular shaped 10 gallon was a little too big, so we went with the half moon. We have had this one up for just over a week now.

Pros:

Small foot print so it fit onto a narrow/ tall dresser

Super quiet filter, perfect for the kids bedroom.

I like that it is taller than a normal 10 gallon so the plants can grow taller.

The filter seems to pump plenty of water for the tank. You can really see the water movement and if the fish don't eat quickly, some of the food will get sucked into the filter within just a few minutes. The water has been crystal clear.

Cons:

I don't like that they taped things to the inside of the tank when they shipped it. You don't want to use soap or goo gone inside a tank so that you don't kill the fish and it was a bear to clean off the glue with a paper towel.

Because the tank is narrow and tall, you have less surface area, so it technically will hold less fish than a regular 10 gallon tank

The half moon distorts the fish at certain angles and you have to move around to see the corners

Did not come with net or glass scraper

We are happy with the tank and based on our requirements, it fit our needs. The kids love the tank and we have 6 fish in it so far, 3 midnight tetras, 1 glofish and 2 molly's. We plan to add a cat and possibly a siamese fighter, but the number of fish will definitely be maxed at that point.

I just set up this tank today and immediately noticed the poor quality filter that came with this aquarium. I don't like the idea of an open top on the filter plus there are so many better filters on the market that will fit this tank. I am also not crazy about the provided top. It's just a piece of plastic that sits loosely on top of the tank with a hole in the front for feeding and two holes in the back for the heater and filter. They should have made this a hinged lid instead as there is a chance fish will jump out. Poor design! However, the tank looks beautiful and with a few minor adjustments, it will be a nice addition to my office. If you do decide to add a better filter, use the AquaClear 20. It's fantastic and will keep the aquarium in much better shape than the provided filter. Fits perfectly. Just remove the cut out portion of the back of the lid and the AquaClear fits beautifully. The AquaClear has a lid so the water is not exposed and requires very little maintenance.

Buy Tetra Half Moon Aquarium Kit, 10-Gallon Now

We bought this tank today and after setting it up, we absolutely love it. I wanted an elegant/stylish tank, and that is exactly what I got.

Things that I love about the tank:

1. Shape the half moon shape is great for viewing your fish, plus, it is a nice change from traditional rectangular fish tanks

2. The filter is very quiet

3. The filter replacements are not very expensive (I looked them up after purchasing the tank)

4. The LED light is bright and does not require much energy

5. The heater can be placed almost anywhere in the tank, allowing you to hide it behind plants or water features.

Things to note:

1. While I love the light, the tank that is the next size up comes with a day/night LED light feature which allows you to use one light for both day and night, instead of purchasing a separate night-time light if you want to view your tank during off hours without stressing your fish out.

2. The filter does not have a lid, so it is a little unfinished looking if you are standing directly over the tank

3. I wish the instructions would have been a little more visual and less technical. We wanted to get the tank set up quickly, and had to stop for each item and read the long instruction sheets.

While we've only had the tank and set up for one day, we absolutely love it. It is a stunning feature in our home.

Read Best Reviews of Tetra Half Moon Aquarium Kit, 10-Gallon Here

For a total of about six weeks, this was an attractive and enjoyable aquarium.

I bought this kit looking for a decorative aquarium to hold about five fresh water fancy goldfish. The tall tank with its clear lid has a lot of eye appeal: the fish and contents are much more visible than in more conventional tanks with a dark rim or a hood obstructing the upper portion. For a ten gallon tank, it has a lot of viewing area.

While the filter is nothing fancy, it does the job well provided that the tank is kept properly filled and the filter's waterfall edge is positioned not too far above the waterline. Positioned like this the system is admirably quiet, but if either the fill level is off or the filter is improperly positioned, you will experience splashing and quicker evaporation losses. It is not a bubbler-type system, so if you need to have a lot of air injected into the water you'll want a different pump/filter.

I was happy with my aquarium for aboout five days when I noticed it was leaking at the bottom left corner. I returned it and received an immediate replacement. This worked fine until, about five weeks later, I awoke to a significantly lower water level in the tank, and a correspondingly upsetting puddle on my stand and floor. I was willing to accept the first failure as a fluke, but after the second tank's failure I gave up on this item and bought another manufacturer's product.

After dissassembling the failed tank I noticed that the silicone sealant between the front curved glass, the flat glass backplate, and the plastic base appeared to have been sloppily applied in several places, including at least one place where the leaks occurred. There were a couple of other spots where upon close inspection I could see voids or finger grooves. Maybe my two tanks were made on the same day by the same inexperienced or careless assembler, and/or checked by the same indifferent inspector. Whatever the cause, poor quality control is what soured me on this product. If you really like this tank's looks in spite of its problems, I recommend you consider applying extra sealant to the seams along the inside of the base and hopefully avoid the issues I experienced.

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Something with the curve of the glass and sudden light changes drives fish to jump out! I've had this tank for a year and a half and have lost close to 20 fish. I had 1 type in there and after 5-6 jumped, I decided to move it and stock it with different fish. Same results, very upsetting to find your favorite fish dried up behind the tank/stand. Platies, Guppies, Cories, ...doesn't seem to matter, they all jump. Stay away from this tank or completely cover with saran wrap or plexiglass cut to perfect size. This will keep your fish alive, but I don't think they will be very happy.

Monday, October 27, 2014

Hagen 12-Pack Fluval U4 Poly/Carbon Cartridge Aquarium Water Filter

Hagen 12-Pack Fluval U4 Poly/Carbon Cartridge Aquarium Water FilterThis is really a great deal. What a way to save in the long run. I replace both filters twice a week when I clean my tank. It's been handy to have a stockpile onhand.

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Friday, September 19, 2014

K&H Perfect Climate Deluxe Pond De-Icer

K&H 8125 Perfect Climate Deluxe 250-Watt Pond De IcerI have tried a lot of heaters/ de-icers, including trough heaters. All were similar in wattage. Most did not work well or were unreliable. I have used this one for the last 2 winters and not only did it work great, it kept a wide area open except in very cold with high wind. Even then it kept the immediate area open. Their guide was very helpful, I bought the wattage they suggested for my zone (N. IL). I am buying another one now as a back-up, in case I can't find it later. I use it with a thermo cube to cut down on unnecessary running.

We have a small garden pond which we like to keep open in the winter so that birds and wildlife will have a place to drink. Since we installed our new pond heater we have had weeks of sub-freezing weather and one heavy snowstorm. The pond is staying open and we are very pleased with the performance of the heater.

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I installed this heater in my very small pond the day I received it. The next morning I felt the water and the water was very cold. With that, I assumed the heater didn't work and I returned it, and gave it a bad review. I placed another order and when it arrived I plugged it in right away inside the house, and again nothing. I said this can't be happening again. I took a piece of ice and placed it on the metal rod, and the ice began to melt immediately. That's when I realized that this product is not a heater, it's a de-icer. The heating element does not kick on until the water begins to freeze. Last night here in Chicago we got some frost. I looked out the window and all my little goldfish were inside the the circle of the floater. I ran outside in a panic, thinking they were all dead but they were obviously hanging there to keep warm and when they saw me they scurried. I believe this product works fine so far but I won't know for sure until the pond actually freezes. Anyway, don't expect this heater to warm the water in the pond. It is not designed to do that. It is actually a de-icer.

Read Best Reviews of K&H Perfect Climate Deluxe Pond De-Icer Here

I have a small pond and this keeps it ice free with no problem. So far our Michigan weather hasn't been awful. It has been in the teens with a few single digit days. The pond is clear. No problems.

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The product works well, but the chart suggested 250W for my pond and at the recommended temperatures, it is not keeping a hole clear on the surface. If in doubt between two choices, consider the higher wattage unit for your pond.

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Tuesday, August 5, 2014

Up Aqua Ceramic Bamboo Shelter, Large

Up Aqua Ceramic Bamboo Shelter, LargeI thought this would be a great addition to my pond and provide my small koi a place to hide. This is a small shelter.

I don't know what it is about it, but my fish won't swim into this. They swim around it but it sits unused. They prefer an old can and drainage pipe. I wouldn't recommend this product.

My CPO Crayfish love these... I'll find them climbing all over them and hiding in the tubes. One thing to note however, the tubes are glued in the form you see them, no way to change how they are formed.

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Friday, August 1, 2014

Underwater Galleries AUG3212 Aztec Ruin

Underwater Galleries AUG3212 Aztec RuinIt's well made a repro of the Aztec torture disk platforms. The rendering is okay, but the piece is a very bland cream-white color that doesn't do much for the tank. Not much of an accent to the decor.

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Saturday, May 24, 2014

New Life Spectrum Thera A - Medium Fish - 300 g

New Life Spectrum Thera A - Medium Fish - 300 gNot much to say but my fish may have a mouth full...Ha ha ..They love it! Usually all gone before it sinks to the bottom.

i feed to every tank i have and all types of fish devour it.does not cloud the water and excess can easily be removed.

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I have feed this to my fish for a long time. Since they have been on this, they have had no health issues and they gobble it down....

Read Best Reviews of New Life Spectrum Thera A - Medium Fish - 300 g Here

NLS is a great brand you can never go wrong with their food switched my dicscus from tetrabits to NLS and they have been doing much better.

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Thursday, May 1, 2014

Nature Aquarium Polished Glass Gravel - Black Glass Gravel 8 oz. Small

Nature Aquarium Polished Glass Gravel - Black Glass Gravel 8 oz. SmallI was first interested in this gravel for my small betta tank. The gravel is smooth and very shiny. It looks great and gives a nice clean feel to my tank. I would definitely recommend this gravel.

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Friday, April 25, 2014

AquaTop 48" SkyLED Aquarium LED Light - 462 LEDs

AquaTop 48' SkyLED Aquarium LED Light - 462 LEDsThe LED is the future, it saves energy and output more light than comparable traditional light. The LEDs make my fish tank look stellar! The color of my fish look great. I can see colors I did not see before. The LEDs shine all the way to the bottom of my tank and give the shimmer effect of natural daylight! At night I like to shut off the White LEDs and use the Blue and Red LEDs to give my tank a Moon-Lit effect. Keep in mind this light is for aquarium use, it can grow some plants but not coral.

This light is great! The colors it produces is amazing with its shimmer effects. The colors of my salt water fish pop from this light. I would definitely recommend this item.

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I bought this in June and now the white LEDS will not come on. Out of luck because it only had 30 day warranty. Would not buy again.

Read Best Reviews of AquaTop 48" SkyLED Aquarium LED Light - 462 LEDs Here

Recently purchased this LED light and it doesn't work. I guess I got lucky to find out that this light is low quality will still under warranty. When researching this light before purchasing it there is no mention anywhere at any website including the manufactures of how many watts this light has. There is a reason for this, it's only 28 watts. There is no way 28 watts can be enough for corals.

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The bad rating is on amazon. I don't know what the light looks like. For some reason they don't know the difference between a 48 in light and a 24 in light. There is a big price difference thou. I will be sending it back again ( second time ). If you order this item double check to make sure you received the correct item. Good luck !

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Monday, April 21, 2014

Microbe Lift 4.4-Pound Pond Barley Straw Pellets 10BSPP4.4

Microbe Lift 4.4-Pound Pond Barley Straw Pellets 10BSPP4.4I have a 900 gal pond with waterfall and a fountain, both with filters. Algae has been a problem from day one and I had been using a liquid algaecide which does a great job if I use it 3 or 4 times per week. I added the barley straw pellets almost a month ago and have only used the algaecide twice. The barley did give my water a tea-colored tint when introduced which went away in 2 weeks. I plan to use barley as my main algae control and use the chemical only as needed.

Have used this product for 3 years now. Very effective at controlling algae. Our pond gets a fair amount of run-off from farm fields, which causes rampant algae growth. This stops the growth and kills the algae. I apply it 3 times a year.

Good stuff. No effect on the fish.

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I bought these after hearing this helps fight Algae in fish ponds. I could tell no difference in algae growth using this product.

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I went by the exact directions and found all my fish dead the next day. I've drained my pond and will not get more fish now.

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I have been using Barley Straw Pellets on my fish pond for one year now. It is perfect for helping to cut down on algae. However you need more than barley to keep you fish pond save and clean. One, Replace the barley pellets in the pond with fresh pellets once every three months. and once a week treat pond with GreenClean Granular Algaecide 2 pounds also found on amazon. One last thing, vacuum the bottom of the pond with a leaf gulper once every two weeks. Hope that helps everyone.

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Monday, March 17, 2014

Midwest Tropical Rectangle Aqua 30 Gallon Tower Aquarium

Midwest Tropical Rectangle Aqua 30 Gallon Tower AquariumI have one of these in my entry way. It is tall really tall my children love to set on the floor and look into the tank. Unit comes with plenty of substrate. The lighting is a little small a single bulb it workes but no way your growing a plant. The supplied hang on filter in my opinion is ok for a wile but I'd buy a better one. Under gravel filter with lift tube well it does the best it can. U need a heater 150w workes fine. The PROBLEM with this tank is there is no way to reach the bottom. I purchased a extra long reptile grabber so I can move/remove the decor. And using a gravel vac is tricky to say least I use a long piece of small pvc pipe with the hose attached to it there is no easy way to clean the bottom of the tank. Over all its a great looking tank and is impressive it look at bit hard to clean but o well.

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Wednesday, March 12, 2014

Zilla Night Red Incandescent Heat Bulb

Zilla 09921 Night Red Incandescent Heat Bulb, 75-WattI bought several of these and use them for different reptiles. I have chameleons and a bearded dragon and it works great to keep the temperature up in there cages at night. It is too strong for my green tree python though I need the 60 watt she is in an 18x18x24 cage and it makes it too warm at night. The chameleon is in a 24x24x48 screen cage and it is perfect for it. My bearded dragon is in an 18x18x36 cage and it works great for it.

I gave a 5star rating and the reason is cause of great friendly service. I liked the product because of the fact that it came exactly as described no problems with the product and works really great just like it's suppose to and yes I recommend the product to any buddy that has reptile pets because the product works great for the little price I paid.

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Burnt out within a week I do not recommend worst bulb I've tried wont buy this one again I guess that's why it was cheap

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This is a truly terrible product. I bought two bulbs, with one as backup for when the first burnt out. The first one burnt out after 2 weeks, which was disappointing. I replaced the bulb with my backup, which proceeded to burn out within 1 day. By contrast, my daytime bulb, which is just a generic incandescent white bulb, is working just fine. Both are housed in the same dual dome housing, so I doubt it's a problem with the housing. I moved the white bulb to the red bulb's socket to make sure, and it worked fine. I don't know exactly what is defective about these bulbs (perhaps an improper vacuum seal), but I would stay away from them.

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Bought this for my turtle tank. Lasted 2 months before shattering and falling into the tank. I've heard of a light bulb burning out but never cracking. Save your money.

Saturday, March 8, 2014

Aquatic Fundamentals Black Scroll Aquarium Stand

Aquatic Fundamentals Black Scroll Aquarium StandI assumed this had shelves!!! Not worth $50 when you have to spend another $40 for the glass shelves. The screw holes didn't line up and made it a little difficult to assemble.

Ok so the product itself is ok but how about the holes

are off center from the holes on the legs, so I have to go find longer bolts in order to put this thing together. I am not happy about that.

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This is an attractive stand here on the Amazon site, but it didn't have the right dimensions when I got it home. Wound up getting one from Drs Smith and Foster instead, which was perfect. I was able to return this at a local Petco, which was surprising.

Read Best Reviews of Aquatic Fundamentals Black Scroll Aquarium Stand Here

This stand was perfect for my sons 20 gallon fish tank. I also love that it is simple and does not take up much space. I would of given it 5 stars but it is a little wobbley, which may be our fault and it probably needs tightened. All and all it's a good product!

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Sunday, March 2, 2014

Aquarium Pharmaceuticals 10J Pimafix Antifungal Fish Remedy

API Pimafix Antifungal Fish Remedy, 16-OunceMelafix and Pimafix are two of the flagship products by fish care giant API(aquarium Pharmaceuticals Inc)A homeopathic antifungalPimafix works wonders in fresh, brackish and salt water aquariums. Unlike medications which are in essence chemicals Pimafix uses a soluble extract called "Pimenta Racemosa"

Pimenta Racemosa comes from West Indian Bay Trees and is extraordinarily effective in treating and curing a multitude of fungus related disease including:

* Fungus and cotton Fungus

* Mouth Fungus

* Body Fungus

* Red Streaked Fins

* Gill Fungus

The typical treatment for any of the above is a daily dose of 5 ml per 10 gallons of water for seven days. Usually you'll see significant improvement within 48 hours it's that fast and that effective. Pimafix can be used along with Melafix to ensure both bacterial and fungla infections are treated equally.

Pimafix can also be used when quarantining new fish and adding post quarantine fish into your community tanks.It's important to remember to remove activated charcoal during treatment.Both Pimafix and Melafix can foam slightly but will never cloud your water or change your water parameters.

It's a safe, gentle highly effective product that I've depended on for decades.After 40 years of keeping fish both Pimafix and Melafix are two products I highly recommend to anyone, novice to expert.

I gave this 4 stars because of the scent of it. It has a very strong mint/peppery smell that will linger in the water of your tank and hangs around in the air. I love that this bottle has a measuring cap on it that makes it handy to ensure I have measured out the correct dose. Other than the smell it is a great product! My only concern is that they recommend you treat the tank for 7 days without any active carbon and if you have high waste producing fish like goldfish that is not an option. I can usually go about 12 hours without active carbon before my fish start to show signs of ammonia distress. Since I cannot go an entire week minus active carbon I will only treat my main tank if I have several fish in need of it and salt did not help. Everyday I will pull out the active carbon for 5 hours then replace it and repeat until my fish are healed or for the max of 7 days. If I have a single fish that needs to be treated a hopsital tank is a must, or in my house hospital bucket (in case if I need to transport my fish). In the smaller hospital tank it is possible to go without active carbon if you do a water change everyday (20-30%).

This is great for fin rot or any wounds on fish, but I highly recommend adding salt to your tank(if it's a freshwater tank for goldfish, etc) first before adding any chemical med. to the tank. Salt works wonders on fish, just make sure you use aquairium salt and not TABLE SALT.

Also if your having fungus issues (cottony growth on the gills or around the face or on the fins) the fungus has to be coming from somewhere if you have an established tank. Clean all the hoses, gravel, decorations and filter, espically if it's a HOB (Hang-on-back of tank).Vinegar is a good, natural cleaner that will not hurt your fish if there is any residue after rising. Usually the cause of fungus is uneaten decaying food and decaying waste in the tank.

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I was skeptical about this product when I bought it, but figured it would be worth a try. I used this product in conjunction with Melafix when our Black Moors and Glofish were sick. (They were sick when we bought them and didn't realize) The Black Moors had fin rot and this cleared it right up. It also helped when we made the mistake of putting a Puffer Fish (For reference, Puffer Fish should be kept by themselves) in the tank with the Black Moors. The Puffer ate the tails and fins of our fish and this kept an infection from starting in the fish. I highly recommend it if your fish is suffering from one of the maladies that this treats. It treats fungus or cottony growth, mouth and body fungus, and reddening of fins and body. Our fish are happily swimming around today after being treated with this a month ago.

Read Best Reviews of Aquarium Pharmaceuticals 10J Pimafix Antifungal Fish Remedy Here

not much to say. it works, our Koi are healthy and doing just fine. We use this if/when we ever notice anything unusual on their bodies, like eyes, fins, tail etc. its not something we have to use often, but it does the job when we need it

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I've had two Dwarf Gouramis that had fungus (different occasions). I put them into my hospital tank and used Pimafix as per all the instructions. Both DGs died. Now, I cannot be sure why they died. Maybe the fish were too far gone already, both lived for about a day in the hospital tank. All I can say is that it hasn't helped any fish I've treated with so far. In the fish forums that I've visited, most of the opinions is that Pimafix does not help. Anyway, this is just my experience, you might have a different one.

Saturday, March 1, 2014

Hagen A1580 8-Watt Aqua-Glo Fluorescent Bulb, 12-Inch

Hagen A1580 8-Watt Aqua-Glo Fluorescent Bulb, 12-InchI ordered this to replace a worn out bulb for my son's six gallon Marineland Eclipse tank. It fit perfectly, and the light quality is noticeably better than the tube that came with the tank. At this price, I shouldn't have waited until the old one burnt out before making the switch.

I am glad I don't have to change entire fish tank but replaced light bulb. New light bulb working just fine. I am satisfied for amazon quick services as well.

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Saturday, January 25, 2014

DT ONE & ONLY FW 8OZ

DT ONE & ONLY FW 8OZI purchased a 2 ounce bottle for new new 29 gallon aquarium in order to shorten my fishless cycle. I added 2 ppm ammonia, and the One and Only to my tank. After three weeks, Nitrites had still not cleared. I tested daily, and kept my water parameters in line with the instructions every step of the way including temperature, PH, keeping both ammonia and nitrites under 5ppm so as to not stall the cycle, and the product did not speed up the fishless cycle. I contacted Dr. Tim, and below is an exact transcript from tha interaction:

Customer 5/20/2012 8:55:40 AM Hello,

I have recently set up a new 29 gallon tank, and ordered a 2 oz bottle of One and Only with which to do a fishless cycle. I received the One and Only on May 1, and began the fishless cycle that day by adding the One and Only and 2ppm ammonia to the tank. As of today, 5/20, the tank is still not processing Nitrites. I have kept the water at a constant 84 degrees, and the PH at a constant 8.0.

I have posted requesting help on Cichlid-Forum in your forum there and have not received any response.

It appears that I am now on a regular fishless cycle, and that the One and Only has not helped speed the cycle in any way. The tank is now processing ammonia (as would be expected in a normal fishless cycle), the Nitrites never reached above 4 ppm because I have also been doing small water changes. There is nothing in the parameters of the water that would cause this slow down, other than the One and Only has not worked.

Therefore, I am requesting a refund of my purchase, plus shipping. The total I paid was $21.88, and my order number was 3d-120562.

Thank you, in advance, for your help.

Sincerely,

Robert Lewis

Staff (Administrator) 5/20/2012 1:20:24 PM

Dear Mr Lewis

Sorry to have not responded in the cichlid forum but we never received a notice that anyone has posted in the forum so did not know there was message. I have contacted the forum people to find out what the problem is.

As for the tank and processing a refund I am sorry but I cannot grant that request. There is no data to suggest that the process not working (according to you) is due to the product you control the process but adding ammonia (or not) and measuring nitrite is only one way to tell if the process is working or nor working.

Did you add more ammonia, did you measure nitrate etc etc. How did you set-up the tank etc etc.

Because of the high number of variables involved and the fact that every aquarium and aquarist is different we do not promise that the tank will cycle in xx number of days because again that is subjective. Our products work and we try hard to make everyone happy but we cannot be responsible for every case and situation.

Sincerely

DrTim

Customer 5/20/2012 1:39:12 PM

Hello,

I'm happy to provide any data you wish so that you are comfortable that this is not due to 'other variables'. It's not my first time setting up a tank. In fact, it's not even my first time setting up a tank with your product. I also take issue with the fact that you say that you don't say the tank will be cycled in xx number of days. The entire point of One and Only is to cycle a tank faster than it would have cycled on its own, so some timeframe in inherent in the purpose of the product. Additionally, in your literature explaining how to do a fishless cycle, you mention that most tanks will cycle 'within a week'.

I have added additional ammonia on three occasions. I have tested for both ammonia and Nitrite each day. I have done small water changes when it appeared Nitrite was nearing 4 ppm. I have maintained a PH of 8.0, I have maintained a temp of 84 degrees, I am using sponge filtration. The only things in the tank are rocks and crushed coral substrate.

I have used the clear ammonia available at Ace Hardware something that MANY people on Cichlid-Forum have also used. I tested to ensure that ammonia never went above 2ppm after adding to the tank.

I would be happy to go over any other variables you mention. I am asking for a refund because the cycle is likely to complete in the next several days to a week anyway without One and Only having sped the process at all.

Please let me know what information you would like, and I hope you will consider a refund, if for nothing else than to keep a customer that has bought from you in the past, and will likely buy from you in the future, and is active in a community that comprises a good portion of your core market.

Sincerely,

Robert Lewis

Customer 5/20/2012 1:41:06 PM

Additionally, I have not tested for Nitrate because I have been advised that testing for Nitrate when there are Nitrites in the water will likely give a false reading.

Customer 5/23/2012 11:10:39 AM

Hello?

Staff (Administrator) 5/23/2012 2:49:37 PM

Hello:

We have considered your request and we cannot comply. You choose to use the Ace Ammonia based on other's advice and not our ammonia. You controlled the amount of ammonia being added which will determine the amount of nitrite. And as you note we say "most" not every aquarium.

The fact is you have placed two orders with us and complained each time. We helped the first time by replacing the product which was surely not defective. For the second order you controlled the cycling time and you did not follow the directions.

Sincerely

DrTim

Customer 5/23/2012 3:10:06 PM

I truly do not understand your stance here. I followed the directions to the letter. How can you say I didn't follow the directions? I have offered to provide you with any additional data you wish. Instead of asking for this data, you chose to attack my methods without all of the information. Was I not to control the amount of ammonia I add to the tank? Of course I should, your statement in that regard doesn't even make sense! I dosed to 2ppm initially, waited for ammonia to clear, began measuring Nitrite daily, added additional ammonia to 1ppm two additional times over two weeks. I did small water changes if Nitrite approached 4ppm so as not to stall the cycle. I maintained proper temperature. I maintained proper PH. I used the appropriate amount of One and Only. Please explain to me how I did not follow directions? Please explain to me the error in my methodology? How you can even say that without appropriate data is beyond me.

Is your issue that I did not use your Ammonia Chloride, and used Ace instead? This product has been shown to be reliable by many others that have used it for fishless cycling, including those that have used One and Only.

Then you make a remark regarding our first transaction stating that your product was surely not defective in the first instance either!?

So, at the end of that first paragraph, are you saying that your product only works 'most' of the time? That's a tidbit I'm sure the community would certainly be interested in knowing so they can evaluate their purchase decisions with more information.

If you are unwilling to consider my request, then unfortunately, you've lost a customer. I'll also make every effort to evangelize this to as many people as I can. Regrettable, and avoidable.

Sincerely,

Robert Lewis

Staff (Administrator) 5/24/2012 7:05:25 AM

Here is the problem you think that because you did not get the results you expected that the product did not work.

But you have read many many accounts where it performed fine. So how did you get the one (or if you count both orders the two) that did 'not' work. Your whole thinking is that the product is defective not that maybe something you do or have done is the problem.

That is wrong. The product works fine the situation is that once the product gets into the user's hands the user can do many things that may reduce the effectiveness of the product things we cannot control. That is why we say 'most cases' because in most cases it will work despite what the user may or may not do. Please do not mis-state what we mean.

You choose to think that it should work no matter what you do and this is wrong.

So when you talk about the product just be sure to write the truth you did not follow the directions exactly and did not do everything perfectly.

Customer 5/24/2012 7:14:48 AM

And again, I ask you, what did I do wrong? And, how do you somehow feel I did not follow directions? I did follow the directions. I did keep the water parameters exactly as you state in your directions. I have given you details of what I did within this thread, can you pleae tell me what I did that is not according to your directions? I have offered to give you whatever data you wish on several occasions now, and instead of asking for it, you just make blanket judgements about my methodology rather than even acknowledge the possibility that perhaps your product did not perform as designed. I even suggested that perhaps your guidance on how much of your product to use for each tank size may need some adjustment, and you can't even bring yourself to consider that. I'm trying to be reasonable, and provide any information you request, you are just playing the blame game blame the customer for any problems that arise.

Staff (Administrator) 5/24/2012 7:23:04 AM

This conversation has become pointless I wish the best with your aquariums.

Good day

I was propelled into the world of aquariums when my daughter was handed a large jar full of fancy guppies by her grandfather. So, on a Sunday night my family found ourselves at the only pet store open, with my credit card in hand. That night we provided our "free" guppies with a perfect 10 gallon world, filled with live plants, rocks, LED lights and a filters that could handle twice the tank size everything a guppy could want. I thought things were going well until few days later the guppies started to die.

I returned to the store and told my story of woe to the helpful staff. They in turned explained cycling to me and I learn that while my tank look like an ideal home for guppies, the water itself was toxic. Beyond that quick lesson they could offer no help, but as I left the store with a water test kit in hand a young British man overhearing my store told me to look up "Dr Tim One and Only".

It didn't take long to learn that the aquarium world was split on Dr Tim's products. I had my doubts that this miracle of biology could work. However, with nothing to lose, and not wanting to explain to my daughter that her beloved fancy guppies were going to die I placed my order for Dr Tim's One and Only, and paid extra for the overnight shipping.

Not only did "Dr Tim's One and Only" work, but it has allowed for the setup of a second tank for the female guppies, without waiting for the traditional 30-day tank to cycling. We literally dumped eight (8) female guppies and a pair of Cory Cats into the new tank, within minutes of filling the new tank with water. Both tanks are now filled with thriving guppies. We set-up a tank for fries using water pulled from the female tank.

The first couple weeks I tested the water daily and could tell that the bacteria was becoming established, with in a few days the bio-filter was in place and doing its job. After a month of daily testing I reduced my water testing to once a week. If I detect an increase in any of the levels I add a one cap full (half a dose) to the tank, and my readings drop back to zero (0) again. Our tanks are healthy and stable; I have plans on moving up to 30 gallon tanks for the guppies and Dr. Tim's will be are part of that upgrade.

I HIGHLY recommend Dr Tim's One and Only to anyone with a tank full of fish that can't or won't wait for the normal 30 day traditional cycle method. There simply no reason to wait before enjoying a tank full of happy fish.

I read the one star review of Dr Tim's One and Only, and can say I had zero problems with the product. One and only worked PERFECTLY -my Ammonia, Nitrate and Nitrite levels hold steady zeros or near zero. I can only suggest everyone should read and follow the instructions. Dr. Tim's web page had provided great insight into tank management.

Side note: I use the dropper test from API as I feel its results are more accurate than the stick method, even if it take more effort.

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SF1 Submersible Flat Box Filter

SF1 Submersible Flat Box FilterI'm giving this product 5 stars for one reason and one reason only, to make up for the people who can't be bother to read the actual product descriptions before they make purchases and then give the products one star. I figure that if I give it 5, the it will average off to 3 stars to offset their ignorance. If the actual product description is read, nowhere does it state that a pump is included. The description lists what is included, and adapters for various pumps are listed, it even tells you what gph pumps to use it with but it never states that a pump is included. Yes, a few of the pictures show a pump, illustrating how the filter should be plumbed together, yet these same illustrations show rocks, grass, a pond and trees and I wouldn't expect any of that to be included, so why would I expect anything else that the product description specifically does not state is included to be included? I wouldn't, but then again I am moderately intelligent (or at least not completely stupid), so I read descriptions, and if I'm not sure about a product, I may even google it and read manufacturers descriptions, other sellers descriptions and other websites reviews before I make a purchase. I've been know to visit a local store that carries the product to actually look at it up close before making a purchase. I think it's called being an "informed consumer". There is no excuse for giving a product a low rating for not including something if you are too lazy to actually read the description of that product to see if it is included.

The product is actually about a three star item. It is reasonably well made, but all plastic can break if care is not taken, and when removing the cover to clean the filter, care needs to be taken or the tabs can break. As for the reviews complaining about the foam filter deteriorating too fast, don't try to wash it out by putting your hose sprayer at full strength and it will last much longer, simply take reasonable care when washing it out and it will last a long time, the more gently you treat the foam the longer it will last. If however you handle it roughly, it won't be long before the foam needs replacement and the plastic tabs are broken.

It is a decent product, not a great one. I'd give it four stars normally, since it is a good product that does what it claims to quite well when reasonable care is taken cleaning it.

I'm sorry about the rant, I let the one star reviewer get under my skin, I'm just sick of seeing products slammed because of ignorant and lazy people.

I was looking for something to remove all of the sediment from my small pond and would attach to my pump. I had been using a home-made filter made from a small bucket filled with lava rock; very difficult to clean. The SF1 kit installed in minutes and is very easy to clean. Now I can see to bottm of the pond and the fish seem happier, lol.

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I bought this product as it gift for my husband for his fish pond, he was most excited. He set it up, and after a few days u saw how the water was getting cleaner, and the filter was pulling all the moss, little flies or mosquitoes from it. Once you wash out the filter regularly it will work perfect.

Read Best Reviews of SF1 Submersible Flat Box Filter Here

First off This filter wants to float a little I put a rock in mine under the foam insert this fixed the issue. You can probably use gravel or a rock on top or Partially bury it under rocks or wedge it under or agents something. Other than that I own one of these box filters in my pond works great the foam insert is easy to clean off with a hose. This is just the filter not the pump altho i have a tetra pump that works in great cobonation with the filter.

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great Submersible Flat Box Pond Filter , i tried many diferents before but so far this one is the best !!!!

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Danner 12455 Bio-Matrix Media In Mesh Bag

Danner 12455 Bio-Matrix Media In Mesh BagThe description says it's 1/2 inch in diameter and 100 feet long. That's a pencil the size of a nine-story building. How does the UPS feel about the overnight delivery option? As for the rest of the description, nobody needs to tell me the design is stylish. I wore a bag of bio-metrix media to a party in Los Angeles once and the next thing I knew, everyone in West Hollywood had one. I can also vouch for the low electrical consumption because it's bag of bio-matrix media.

Save 24% Off

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

TOM Aquarium Maintenance Gravel Siphon, Nozzle 18-Inch by 1-Inch Hose, 5-Feet Length

TOM Aquarium Maintenance Gravel Siphon, Nozzle 18-Inch by 1-Inch Hose, 5-Feet LengthWhy oh why do local fish stores not carry these? The pump action to start the siphon is far, far superior to the vacuums that require you to move the entire nozzle, which is inexplicably so popular. This is very easy to start for water changes and far less stressful on the fish, not to mention my sanity. I will never go back to the other kind again.

This thing works perfect. The vac was the perfect length for my 29gallon tank. Just stick it in there and squeeze the pump a few time and your siphon is going. No sucking on hose or getting wet.

Buy TOM Aquarium Maintenance Gravel Siphon, Nozzle 18-Inch by 1-Inch Hose, 5-Feet Length Now

The idea is a great idea. The hose is pretty good quality. The BAD PART is the CHEAP PLASTIC ACCORDION STYLE PUMP. It worked twice. If they were to replace the CHEAP Plastic Accordion with a Rubber Blub for the pump part, this would be great.

Read Best Reviews of TOM Aquarium Maintenance Gravel Siphon, Nozzle 18-Inch by 1-Inch Hose, 5-Feet Length Here

I own the 12 inch and just ordered the 18 inch. The best siphon I've ever owned.

PROS:

Easy

Great for cleaning gravel

Simple to start

drains right into a bucket

easy to store

durable

CONS:

Clogs occasionally (keep up on maintenance)

Siphon somtimes take a little work after a while

Could use a longer hose

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I use this gravel siphon to clean the sand in my 40 G mixed reef tank. I mostly use it to clean up the waste that mexican turbo snails leave behind. The siphon has a pump where the hose is attached to get the whole thing started. I though this was good, but a lot of time the suction would simply not work and I would still have to use my mouth. Also, the siphon has a filter where the siphon is attached to the hose to prevent most of the sand from getting sucked out. Problem with this is that it also prevents the poop and other large waste to get sucked out as well. Eventually this filter gets clogged and has to be cleaned out every 30 seconds or so otherwise you lose suction.

I still rated this 4 stars because when the filter is not clogged the suction is very strong and most of the sand stays in the tank. It is not perfect, but the best siphon I've used.