The Puffer Forum

I will be starting to cycle my first tank in the next few days for my first F8 puffer.

What are people's feelings on using RO water as opposed to Tap Water? Is there any benefits or does it not really make a difference?

In the Tropical tanks I have had before we always used RO water with added minerals with no problems. But not having had puffers before just wanted to see if it was worth paying out the extra or if a good water conditioner added to tap water would be just as good.

Is there ammonia/nitrite in your tap? If not, it is perfectly fine to use for F8s.

+1 to PP's comment.

But I see no reason for doing RO for FW or light BW unless your water supply is unsuitable for the fish you want to keep and breed.

I'd test the tap water for phosphates and silicates first. If it's got them in it (and tap water wherever you go usually does) you'll likely run into a brown algae explosion down the road.

I don't think you're going to find a silicate test kit anywhere easily.

Both Seachem and Salifert make water test kits for silicates.

Hmmm... guess it's not something I've ever looked for.

Thanks guys I'll give my tap water a test and see how it looks.

Check for the obvious: ammonia/nitrite/nitrate.

RTR wrote:Both Seachem and Salifert make water test kits for silicates.

That's correct. I think that Elos might make them as well. More expensive, but the best test kits IMO.

I have not seen that one. I should look into it. I don't mind Sreachem's test, but a lot of folks find it difficult and awkward.

Thanks for the hint geranimo69!