1. If your water is not clear, do a Pitcher Test. After 24 hours in a quiet, sunny location, has the color changed? Is there any detritus floating? Has anything settled out? These will tell you what is happening in the water and whether it is caused by an inadequate filtration or too many fish.
2. If there is sediment on the bottom of the Pitcher, you will want to clean the filter pads or replace with new ones.
3. If the water in your Pitcher has turned yellow-ish or green-ish, this may be a form of Plankton or diatoms. Your tank’s ecosystem is unbalanced. This can be fixed with beneficial bacteria. (Microbe Lift Special Blend and Gravel & Substrate Cleaner are very helpful in regaining balance.)
4. Closely examine your fish for signs of illness and check to see that the thermometer is working properly. For parasites, Microbe Lift Herbtana has saved many tanks. First, check the water parameters. For tail rot, use Microbe Lift Artemiss.
5. If you have a heavy fish load in the tank, in addition to using Special Blend, also use ML/TheraP fish care. TheraP is 100% All Natural, containing live bacteria colonies that will help develop and maintain a healthy, balanced ecosystem in your aquarium.
6. If you decide to replace the filter with something better, use ML/Gel filter starter. It quickly establishes biological activity within your filtration system.
7. If the fish are healthy and all parameters are good, you can use ML/Aqua Pure, a liquid filter media! Aqua Pure consists of a specially developed blend of all-natural bacteria and adsorption media that will help maintain crystal clear water within your salt or freshwater aquarium.
8. If all else fails, clean the glass and limit the amount of time you have the light on your tank!
