Snail Tales

After I had dealt with my moral dilemmas, I was ready to get my mini ecosystem started. At first I was under the impression that I would be buying a tank, plants, and nano-shrimp and be on my merry way. Steve had other plans in store for me.

I walked into his shop having done a good amount of research on Neocaridinas (nano shrimp), but it certainly was not going to be a quick ordeal. At first I was hoping for a meager 3 gallon tank, but Steve felt like it would be better for the animals if I started with 5 gallons, and in retrospect, I totally agree. After deciding on the tank I needed the following:

• A filter and pump (with sponge so the shrimp don’t get sucked in)
• A thermometer to monitor the temperature
• Gravel for substrate on the tank floor
• A grow light for my plants
• Aquatic plants – Grasses and some with larger leaves as well.

Steve gave me some bacteria to help prime the tank for the shrimp, as well as some snails, who I instantly fell in love with. I immediately named them Artemis and Gigi; they are staples in my tank and help with keeping the plant matter in check and continuing with regular housekeeping.

Since I was planning on going out of town for a little while I decided it was best to wait on the shrimp, as they are a little more finicky with water quality. To be continued!