New Aquarium

Yes it is.It's actually not mold , it's a fungus , and if it isn't neutralized with a

specialty aquarium fungicide , it will adhere to your new fish and kill them.

A good aquarium supply store should be able to direct you to the proper

amount & type of fungicide to treat the water with.

Thank you!

Don't ever use a fungicide in your aquarium.

This fungus will not harm your fish. I'm a very experienced aquaist with extensive experience with freshwater plants. You should not add any bulbs until your tank has been up and running for a while. The bulbs will not sprout until they sense higher levels of nutrients in the water. However, if you detect a "white mold" now, they are probably no good. Are these bulbs some that you bought at the pet store sold in a blister pack?

If you want, send me the particulars of your setup, and perhaps I can help.

Now the question is whose opinion do I listen to. The local aquarium store told me the exact same thing about fungicides. I originally set up the aquarium with rocks, artificial plants and coral, then I added the bulbs which did come in a pack from the pet store. I did not buy any fish yet. The water's ph was right on @ 7, but the ammonia levels were extremely high, according to Petco who tested the water on the 2nd day. I originally rinsed the 14 gallon tank and it's contents, added 1.5 teaspoons of water conditioner and it has been running with a filter and aerator for 8 days. I removed the bulbs on the 6th day with the exception of one, because it sprouted roots. However, this morning the roots were turning brown, so i plan on removing the last bulb this evening. I would like to introduce fish, but not at the expense of killing them.

My question is how can you have any ammonia if you haven't added any fish yet?

Your filter is mostly there as a biological filter. Bacteria colonize the filter medium and break down the fish wastes, (ammonia). You should read up on this cycle:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Filter_(aquarium)

http://www.aqua-fish.net/show.php?h=aquariumfilter

As stated, I have a little experience here. I served on the Board of Directors for our local aquarium club, and am a past Breeder of the Year. At one time I had about 50 tanks in my basement, breeding, showing, and selling tropical fish and plants. I gave it up some years ago, but still maintain a 125 gallon tank in my living room.

The key for you is to start slowly. Buy 2 small, inexpensive fish. Resist the temptation to add more fish for 4 or 5 weeks. This will give the filter ample time to colonize the beneficial bacteria. Remember, the pet store is in the business to sell you stuff. You should purchase your own ammonia test kit. Don't trust the kid at the store to get it right.

Anyway, keep us posted about how it's going.

Good morning,

I've removed the bulbs from the tank, but have noticed that the fungus has spread. There is black stuff on the artificial anemones and the water is looking a bit cloudy again. In reference to the ammonia, the pet store guy said tap water contributed to the ammonia because of the chloramine. I was told it is best to let the chloramine dissipate opposed to treating the water, my fault about the bulbs, however. I should have asked first. So what should I do about the fungus? My plan today was to dump the tank and start over. What do you say?

At this point, where you haven't added fish yet, and I rarely recommend this, I would start from scratch. Dump it all, clean everything, and replace filter media. Although chlorine will normally dissipate after a few days, I recommend a neutralizer right from the start. I like this one, as it also aids stressed fish:

http://www.aquatichouse.com/Water%20Conditioners/StressCoat.asp

I also like this product for a quicker start up with new aquariums:

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+3974+3991&pcatid=3991

Anyway, do all that and add 2 small, inexpensive fish to get the whole system up and running.

That should keep you busy for a while. Keep us posted!

(The usual declaimer), please note that I have no dealings with the above distributors, they where just the first ones to carry the products I was looking for. These products are usually carried by most pet stores.

Is there anything special I should clean the tank with, I do not want to retain any of the fungus.

Your input is very much appreciated!

Naw, just any household cleaner. Just make sure to rinse well, and completely dry. Rinse out the gravel, no soap, but try to spread out and let dry.

Remember, stuff is going to grow in this nutrient rich environment. That will include algae and fungi. I find this quite attractive, it makes the tank look natural, like the bottom of a lake.