Goldfish

[caseydoll]

Everyone is a bunch of fish tank experts! Dave, you gave some terrific advice and suggestions. I just wanted to add that I start the siphon on the gravel vac by giving it a quick suck at the end of the tube that goes into the bucket while the larger end is filled with water in the aquarium. Far less sanitary but if you're quick you won't get any water in your mouth. Hopefully people aren't gagging by my method but I worked at a pet shop for a very long time so I guess I'm immune to grossness! Not to say I haven't had my share of accidents. I think it may have already been mentioned but don't gravel vac your tank for awhile since it's new. If you need to change some water use only surface water using Daves suggestions. Your tank may even get really cloudy and awful but that is the cycle it goes through while the good bacteria is forming. You especially don't want to clean the gravel during this time. And don't feel bad when you lose a few fish. Everyone does when they first start a tank. Hope that helps a little!