I want to let all the newbies and old buns out there know, that test kits really have a lot of answers to your questions. And I really love to answer these questions, it is what I like to do here. That is why I am always asking questions, like what your test results are? This information really allows us to get a framework to give you more information.

Please for your own sakes have a test kit for pH, KH, GH, Ammonia, and Nitrite. This is the minimal amount of test kits you should have to ensure your fish health. After you have had your tank and knowledge base for awhile you can stop some of this regular testing. Please take a word of advice, monitor your tanks when they are new and when you are having problems with your fish.

I would say for a brand new tank I would at least run these tests at least once a day, the same time everyday to keep up with water quality. Setup a little journal, so you will have a record of what the tank has been doing. This will allow you to know what changes have occurred in your tank. It is also a fun way to learn about what your tanks cycles are like.

I also keep Iron and CO2 test kits. Iron and CO2 are great test kits to have for the planted aquarium. O2 test kit is good to have also if you are having problems with fish gasping for air.

One last thing on test kits, verify the information they are giving you. Especially if you have any reservations. Test kits have a shelf life and have also been know to give false reading. Take a fresh from the tank sample immediately to the LFS and have them confirm your results.

I use the Tetra Laborette kit for my personal tanks and am very satisfied with them. They are only in the $14.00 US range.