help with the specifics

[Ashley]

Could you guys help me find the right kind of lighting hood and filtration system for a 10g intended for multies?  I have a 10g glass tank, it's in fine shape and holds water just like it should.   Problem is, I have an old hood which I wouldn't want to use for the multies.  The lights don't work, etc.  I also have an old filter system and want to get a new one.  I think the aquaclear 30 is what would  be best for filtration, is that correct?  What about a lighting hood?  Any recommendations?  Is there a certain type (florescent, etc) that is better than others?
 I'm just starting to research and I know I have much to do and learn, but any help would be great.  Thanks

[LittleMousling]

Honestly, these are the three things that don't matter much with shellies. Their needs are the same as any fish. Fluorescent light is best because it produces much more light and less heat per watt than incandescent, but it makes little difference to the fish. Power filters are convenient, cheap, and effective, but any filter will work if maintained appropriately. Hoods are immaterial as long as the tank is covered.

Sorry; they're just very easygoing in these ways! Ask about substrates, shells, water quality, or food - there we can give you specific answers. Here, it's pretty much up to you.

[Mattf]

She's pretty right.


I think the Aquaclear 30 is a fine filter, but isn't it a bit too big? If I'm not mistaken, isn't that the 250 under the old system? I have a 150 on my ten, and it's more than enough...

And if you're worried about hoods, you should see mine. You'd laugh. I cut it out of a solid sheet of plexiglass, made it fit the top of the tank, and then cut perfect slots for the filter and heater. I just set a light strip on top.

It works, and the fish don't complain.

Before I got this light strip for free, I had a 14 W under cabinet light from Menard's resting on the top.

Good luck mate.

[Ashley]

I guess that's why I always saw so much info on shells and PH but not much on this stuff.  Do you leave the lights on during the day? night?  Just wondering about that, too.

Well it will still be awhile until I do find multies around here.  Wish me luck begging the lfs to order me some!

[LittleMousling]

Day. Just like any other fish, shellies need a regular day/night cycle with complete darkness or as close as possible at night; they lack useful eyelids and can't sleep with a light on, basically. A cheap timer's your best bet to regulate your day/night cycle.

[Mr. Ocellatus]

I don't even use a timer, I just turn on the light in the morning, turn it off about 12 hours later.

[Mattf]

^ I used to do that, but when school starts, I have problems making it out the door within a half hour of when I'm supposed to....

When you have 4 tanks, it's definitly worth it to spent three or four dollars on a timer.

[LittleMousling]

When you have eight, even more so. Seriously - timers are worth it. You'll want one next time you go on vacation; might as well get it now. They've saved me a whole lot of hassle over the years.

<non-specific commercial> In fact, using timers on my fish lights has led to a timer addiction - I have timers on human-use lights, now. One to help me get up in the morning, one for the houseplants, one for the terrariums ... you get the idea. Timers: the best $5 you'll ever spend. </commercial>

[sman91wing]

^ I'm sold!

I too use timers on 20+ tanks in our basement here... If it weren't for timers, my fish would be angry at me.  They are definitely a good use of 5 bucks.

[Ashley]

Ok great, thanks again.

This is what I have already:
10g tank
heater (gotta look at it to get the specifics)
1 apple snail shell
Regent filter (more questions to follow about this)

There's my big list.  I think the best part is the ONE shell I have.  LOL

Anyhow, about the filter.  I don't know if you can buy it anymore, I've had one in with my goldfish for a few years.  It has refills that are blue fuzzy stuff (oh so technical) with charcoal inside.  I know this isn't right for shellies.... is there a way to convert it or should I splurge and get a new one?

Here is what I need (I think):
Shells, many many shells
Sand/substrate
Hood
Test kit for water
Food
Multies !!

Anything I'm missing?  Thanks for all your help!

[Mr. Ocellatus]

Just a thermometer but that's it.

[Mattf]

In fact, using timers on my fish lights has led to a timer addiction - I have timers on human-use lights, now. One to help me get up in the morning, one for the houseplants, one for the terrariums ... you get the idea.

......Are you kidding?

Well.. I guess I DO set the one on the stand in my room to a time that helps me wake up....


You don't NEED a test kit, but it's strongly recommended.

I don't have one, and I demand my LFS tests my water whenever I need it (twice a year). If you keep up on water changes, chances are you're pretty safe. But since you are starting a tank from scratch, you might want to look into one.

Shells are pretty easy to get, don't worry about that.

And as far as the filter goes, you don't really need carbon, ever even, but if that's what the filter inserts come with, you might as well use it. I just use foam or other biomedia in all my filters.

[Voodoo Chilli]

Personally, I think you do need a test kit.  The vast majority of aquarium problems can be avoided by staying on top of your water conditions.  You can pick up an AP Master Test Kit for around 20-25 bucks and it'll save you lots of headaches down the road!

[Ashley]

Awesome!  I'm almost on the right track now.  LOL