Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Helped out someone who was moving and had to get rid of 12 tilapia fingerlings 2"-5" in size, but my system isn't up and running yet.

Currently have them in a 20g ice chest with an aerator in there, and a seedling heat mat to keep the temp around 70.

How often should I do small water change outs? It'll be at least a week before I can get them in the tanks outside.

Thanks.

You really need to get Ammonia and pH test kits, you'll need them for your new system anyway.

Short of that, I'd be doing 25-30% water changes everyday with water of a similar pH. If it's tap water it should be exposed to sunlight and aerated for 24hrs first to remove chlorine. If your local water authority uses chloramine it would be preferable to use another water source, dam water, rain water etc, because even if you treat it with water conditioner it may neutralise the chlorine component but leave Ammonia behind.

I've got the test kits. I'll monitor the levels, but I know I"ll need water changes. Our supply uses chloramine, and while I've got a chloramine filter coming in the mail next week, I don't have any rainwater collected. There is a lake nearby, I suppose I could do that, but serious doubts over the cleanliness of the water.

I do have a swirl filter with some active bacteria in it, I could flush the water continuously through that, perhaps. Concerned that the only pump I have is too large, and with that low volume of water would be stressful on the fish.

If there was a lake nearby, and I, was thirsty, I would boil it first to be able to drink it safely. Does that sound like a solution for your case??

I could definitely boil it, I'll give that a shot.

Thanks.