Fish tank cloudiness and fish tank gravel

Question
I have just recently sold my old fish and bought new smaller fish for my 100 gallon tank. It has been getting really cloudy, to the point where I can't see the wall on the other side of the fish tank. What can I do? Should I put a background on it? Please help. And one more question. When I sold my old fish I took out all of the gravel so it is just glass on the bottom. Is this an issue for the fish?

Answer
Hi Kevin,

Cloudiness after adding new fish (or in your case, replacing your fish) is most likely due to bacterial bloom. Fortunately, this is beneficial bacteria we're talking about. When fish produce waste, this breaks down into harmful ammonia. Fortunately, beneficial bacteria will colonize the filter, and these bacteria convert the harmful substances into less toxic substances. (Nitrogen Cycle). Right now, you are experiencing a growth of the bacteria.

The cloudiness is nothing to worry about. Try changing 10% of the water daily, replacing it with tap water treated with a water conditioner. The cloudy water is unsightly, but it will clear up within a week as bacteria find places to colonize rather than float in the water.

As a last resort, you can add a chemical water clarifier. These products are found at your local fish store, where you buy all your other aquarium supplies.

There's absolutely no need to put a background on a fish tank - it's all about personal preference. I've never had a background put on my fish tanks, and they all look attractive naturally without some glossy poster paper stuck on the back.

Having no gravel is not a problem, but it is rather unsightly, as you will see all the fish waste collect on the glass bottom. Having no substrate (gravel or sand) means you will not be able to keep live plants. Lastly, gravel provides a secondary location for the beneficial bacteria to colonize, which is a good thing. I'd recommend putting in gravel, but it is not a big deal if you would rather not have it.

Good Luck, and Happy Fishkeeping!

Nathan