Amano requirements

[CalRed]

Hi @CalRed

Here's some very useful bedtime reading:

How Copper Affects Dwarf Shrimp - Shrimp and Snail Breeder

Exposure to high copper disrupts respiration, inhibits reproduction, reduces fertilization success, decreases fecundity of the shrimp.

aquariumbreeder.com

Although the above article recommends the API and Seachem copper test kits, I would definitely not select the API test kit. I have the API copper test kit and it is not sensitive enough. The Seachem may be a better choice but it cannot reliably measure to "less than 0.01mg/l". I use a dip stick test:

SenSafe® John's Copper Check 0-2ppm (Bottle of 25 tests)

This Copper colour test strip, from our SenSafe® brand allows for quick and accurate testing of Free Copper in water. This is a simple dip and read test and you will have your result within 2 minutes. Our patented aperture strips are unique in the way the water flows through them and detects the...

www.itseurope.co.uk

JPC

Thanks jay i'll have a look later this evening and order johns copper test kit.

 

[CalRed]

I have the same issue with my skimmer but normally only my cherries get in. I even found a fish in the filter. Must of jumped and landed on the skimmer is my only logic. Luckily when I did my filter change I found him still alive !

Trying this currently and seems to be working so far. Needs cleaning every couple of days but its keeping the shrimp where they're supposed to be. I clean the skimmer regularly so it requires no extra effort really. Its just some fine netting with the relevant holes cut.

 

[Simmo]

Can I clarify something? My query is very similar as have soft water and have ordered some Amanos. Where do Amanos get their calcium from? If I feed them with a shrimp food that is calcium enriched and have a whole cuttle bone for them to graze on (will they?) do I also need to increase hardness of my very soft water? If they absorb enough calcium in their diet is it needed in the water? Thanks