Water change routine?!!

[neilsc]

Morning Folks,
I'm sure this title will induce a few eye rolls 🙂 with the more experienced hobbyists, but I still find it a confusing and contradictory subject.
I have a 34l tank (no Co2) that is now mature after setting up last May. Its heavily planted, has Chilli Rasboras, Pygmy Corys and a breeding colony of red cherries.
At the moment, I an changing about 20% of the water every 2/3 weeks. My question is does that seem about right or am I potentially storing up problem for the future?

Any comments or advise would be welcome.

 

[Conort2]

I’m of the thought that the more changes the better. However you have a fairly low fish stock with a lot of plants so what you’re doing is probably fine.

 

[dw1305]

Hi all,

I’m of the thought that the more changes the better. However you have a fairly low fish stock with a lot of plants so what you’re doing is probably fine.

I agree with @Conort2 it is such a small volume tank that I would do greater volume water changes. I use <"6 pints milk cartons"> to store the rain water and let it warm up.

cheers Darrel

 

[Jaseon]

My initial thoughts are the bigger the tank the more room for error with 34l being harder to look after. Then i look at the mass of plants you have, and that really is the winning formulae no matter the size. Ive had quite a few heavily planted small tanks, and they have always thrived. I would carry on with your routine, and the plants themselves will give you any indication something is wrong. The only problem i could see is if your substrate depletes over time. Not sure if you're dosing anything or using roots tabs etc.