Tank cleaning

[rachel]

I do a 25% water change and vacuum the gravel in my fish tanks every week. Should I do the same for Sid, my Japanese firebelly? Should I remove him from the tank while I clean it? If so, where should I put him and how should i get him there?

 

[joan]

Cute sal! After the tank is established, a 10-20% weekly water change is adequate, with a thorough gravel cleaning. If Sid is freaked out by the cleaning, then gently pick him up (with VERY clean hands, rinse twice) and put him in a small, escape-proof bowl while you're cleaning.

 

[rachel]

Thanks, I'll do that. Sid is significantly tubbier now than he is in the picture. When first I posted it a lot of people said he was skinny, so he went through a few weeks of major feeding. I even read about bloat, but no, he is just a fat little newt.

 

[cam]

I empty and clean my cage every 4 months and scrub it no soap. Put the newt in a bowl with a towel on it works great for 6 years too.

 

[joan]

That's not a good idea, Cam. A cycled tank does not need to be dismantled for no apparent reason. It's better to leave a cycled tank up and running unless there's a legitimate reason to dismantle.

 

[cam]

o ok but it has worked for 6 years but i'm going to remodel and won't clean anymore but I will get a better pump/ filter