The Puffer Forum

Have you tried rinsing it?

There is absolutely no difference in the bacteria between 1.000 and 1.008 sp. gr. They are the same. But if you change the density too fast, you can shock the bugs and damage them. Ditto for the fish. Don't sweat the bacteria, just make shifts in specific gravity slowly.

Above 1.008, the bacteria must be replaced by the marine forms. There you must go very slowly and test often to be sure it is safe to move on up.

I am not moving up the SG in that tank because its at a 1.005, perfect for the f8's im gonna try to get my water tested today to see if anything spiked up, but i havent changed the filter pad since ive gotten the tank... do you think i should change it?

Unless it's getting threadbare, rinse it weekly.

what is thread bare? like im aware of what it is, just not sure what it looks like

Falling apart.

it doesnt look it, but i cant see past all the guck

Rinse it to mostly clean & get back to me.

i think its torn because i just had trouble putting it into the tank... plus the good bacteria will get on the new filter pad... so should i go for it?

I've never changed my filter pads...it won't hurt too much because there will be enough bacteria in you substrate and on your decor...and yes, the bac will colonize on your new filter pad...

so should i get a new filter pad? i need a quick answer because i might be able to get my dad outta the house before the LFS closes

go get one...lol...as long as your tank is stable it will be fine..just try to rinse it next time...

His tank ISN'T stable. Can you fit the old one & new one together in the filter?

Yes i can, new one goes in in front of or behind?

Wherever you can fit it.