Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Thanks Steve, I will look at getting a nitrate test too. I added enough water yesterday that it is now diluted by maybe 30%. The previous time I added more water (last week?) I ran the pump with the pipes detached until it was about a foot from the bottom, then filled it with new water. I was worried about the copper thing so I wanted to flush things out. Now I am wondering if the biofilter has crashed, because the fish have been so groggy for so long. The fish have not been feeding for weeks now.

Yeh, it a bit like looking for your keys with the lights turned off I take comfort in knowing whats going on.

Having preached as much as what i have about testing, its only becasue small new systems are so unstable. A system that has the right ratio of feed to fish to plants, and a large well buffered tank is near bullet proof. But i'm not there yet.........My problem is lack of plants.......will have to seriously think about converting the growbed to flood and drain on the weekend.............

ditto.

Let's assume that I test everything and it all checks out, but the fish are still dying. Should I then call the local cooperative extension service and pay to have them test my water?

Local pet store may test for free, take em a sample and ask?

No, just take this opportunity to switch to Tilapia. They are legal where you are and the easiest, most diease resistant, prolific, and great tasting brood fish out there. Did I mention they are legal? You will find it much more enjoyable (and forgiving) watching your fish grow than trying to figure out why they are dying. Your kids will love them (and you for keeping fish that are more fun to feed and interact with). There is a ton of support for raising them in tank culture for AP.

LFS will test water for free.

I didn't know that - thanks guys!

Do they test more than what I can test myself, or am I just saving having to buy kits?

Id say they have the capability for a wider range of tests. explain to them your fish are dieing unknown cause, possibly copper? smile and be nice.

...they test ammonia, NO3. They will test as long as they believe you are a customer, not freeloading. I buy crickets from my LFS to feed the tilapia as a treat. $1 every two weeks.

Big spender.

hey...I try and give back to the community

LOL

I actually try and shop at the LFS as much as possible for accessories and supplemental stuff, but finding the small-ish scale of aquarium keeping accessories have become insufficient. Everything is getting bigger..... nets, feed, pipes & fittings, etc. I recently stopped buying my food from the LFS after buying a 50lb. bag of trout feed ($28) from the livestock supplier. Should last me a couple months this time.