Matthew

When we had turtles they were constantly messing up the tank, we resorted to regular water changes in order to keep there living premises clean, That seemed to have the best result, however we were not using any permanent filters, we have a diatom vortex filter that we used to run in the water for a few hours. I don't know that I have helped much, But i guess any filtration will help keep the living conditions clean Matt

It doesn't neccesarily mean he will read them. You are right in saying that. However he has a better chance of reading info like this if he has it available to him, and that's where you come in. Also by giving him books and encouraging his learning (even if he doesn't read them) you are more likely to be asked questions. It's all about being tactful and taking your time. Also don't tell him what he can't have, instead try suggesting different options/combinations. If he likes to buy fish maybe you should encourage a community tank. maybe then he would feel like he has enough fish, and you also get the chance to plant it. Remember though that some people will always be stuck in their ways, it's incredibly frustrating but that's life. Also he may have reasons why he doesn't want to listen to your advice, sorry this is the psychiatric nurse coming out in me, past traumas with fish, maybe his illness is affecting him to the degree that he is unable to rationalise other things. Just a few thoughts. Take them as you please. Good Luck matt

Can you show him a book with fish tank information in it, from memory wardley produce ?fin facts which is a free book that you can get from your lfs. I think it has a brief rundown of how many fish you should have in a tank, it may be worth a look. This guy might not listen to you, but if you give him books to read and allow him to find out that he shouldn't overpopulate his tank (rather than you telling him) he may be more inclined to change his ways.

Welcome, I hope you can find what you need

Paul, can people buy plants direct off you, or do you only supply to the fish stores. Also do you supply the bird barn in west auckland Matt

Any a little closer to Auckland

Does anyone know where I can source this plant Thanks

When I started this community tank I made sure my fiancee picked all the fish, we flicked through a fish profile book and she chose the 'pretty ones'. It meant she had part ownership of the tank so that is a positive sign that in the future she may be more involved

Hi folks I have not said much about me so I thought it was time I did. I'm a 24 year old who grew up with a large number of tanks around me where I was born (Dad use to sell fish). Now i'm a little subdued with one three foot community tank and a 18inch tank with mountain minnows in it. It's a significant change from when I took to breeding siamese fighters, (a cool fish to watch breeding, but a definite need for a lot of tanks when you have them at a decent size). I also have a pair of Oscars which my brother in law is looking after (not quite enough room to house them where I live) which were kind enough to lay eggs for the first time a month or so ago. Those eggs weren't fertile, but I eagerly await the batch that is. I have an interest in setting up a heavily planted tank with discus and cardinals, and probably panda corys but as I'm getting married shortly i have had to halt that plan. Yes I do know i'm under the thumb but fortunately i have been given permission (long term) to set up my tank, so I am looking forward to that. For anyone who cares this sight has got some great information and it is fantastic to be able to learn from others experiences, keep the posts coming Regards Matt

That would be great Dave, if he is still breeding, and doesn't mind you passing on his details I would appreciate that.

thanks Caryl

Just wondering if anyone knows of a good supplier/breeder of discus in Auckland. I'm currently looking at starting up a tank of discus, and would appreciate any advice. Also does anyone happen to know when and where, if there are any, that fish clubs meet in Auckland.

Hi, I'm looking at setting up a discus tank and wondered whether anyone new of a reputable breeder in Auckland.