I was using DIY CO2, but after i had a herniated disc in my back about 2
months ago, I no longer am doing this since I can't really bend so much
right now to get under the tank and set them up. I live by myself.

You have too much light over your tank to do without CO2 injection. If you
can't inject CO2, reduce your lighting. Otherwise, you'll be battling algae
constantly. Try to get your lighting to around 2 wpg, if you can't inject CO2.

The phosphate is probably coming from the fish food. You've got measurable
nitrite in your tank. That means your biological filter is overloaded.

Your tank is lovely, but it also looks a little scant on plants. Adding more
plants will "crowd out" the algae, and also help reduce nitrite and phosphate.

I have a 75 gallon tank with slightly less light than you, and compressed CO2.
I change 30%-50% of the water each week. And I have compressed CO2. (A 75
gallon tank is a bit large for DIY CO2.)

I use a Python, and it's probably the best money I ever spent. Don't worry
about treating the water. You can do it in the tank. Dechlorinator works
instantly. You can add it before you start adding water back in, if you're
really worried.


Leigh

http://www.fortunecity.com/lavender/halloween/881/