I'm Killing My Fish

[Jay Hemdal Verified Community Expert]

This is likely what I'll be targeting now. Thank you

Here is a reference article on acclimation:

https://www.reef2reef.com/ams/acclimation-methods.903/

 

[tim7711]

Update: all fish died in less than 5 hours

 

[exnisstech]

So do you have any idea what salinty the fish were shipped in? Apologies if you answered and I overlooked it. We're just trying to help out.

 

[tim7711]

So do you have any idea what salinty the fish were shipped in? Apologies if you answered and I overlooked it. We're just trying to help out.

It was 30 compared to my 35. Thanks

I really appreciate everyone’s help. But I think next steps are to do a large water change (even thinking 100%). Start over with new water in case there’s a toxin in the water leeching from hardware I haven’t noticed. I removed the UV light which I think may have been the culprit (pulling straws now). I will continue to dose ammonium which the last dose 48 hours ago at 2ppm came down to zero. If necessary will continue to add bacteria.

Will start by adding CUC after reset and determine if still having mass casualties from existing system. If things continue to die I’ll have to scrap everything and start over

 

[tim7711]

I find it sort of ironic. My last tank was a cheap 30 gallon with a hang on the back filter when I started put together in less than $300 which continued to thrive for 3-4 years until I chose to relocate.

Compared to now a 20 gallon aio with apex and ai lights — can’t even get started with a single living organism has been a struggle…

 

[KrisReef]

How have you validated your 35? if your salinity is way off (not properly calibrated) that might have an impact.

Sorry for the frustrating loss.

 

[tim7711]

How have you validated your 35? if your salinity is way off (not properly calibrated) that might have an impact.

Sorry for the frustrating loss.

I have two refractometers

 

[W31Olds]

Are you sure your reading your refractometer in PPT and not speific gravity?

 

[tim7711]

Are you sure your reading your refractometer in PPT and not speific gravity?

I have been referencing to PPT

 

[foamboy]

It really sounds like it was a salinity issue. Match your water salinity to whatever they are being delivered in next time. Better luck next time.