Recently got a 10 gallon

Question
I recently got a ten gallon tank, and didn't cycle it. Instead, I used Nutrafin Cycle, which says it allows for immediate introduction of fish. I tested the water, and all the levels seem great, no rise in nitrates or ammonia or anything. The water temperature is around 75 degrees F. In it I have two Oto catfish, 2 dwarf Gouramis, and 4 wagtail platys. (I added them in yesterday) My question is that none of the fish seem to be moving too much. I read that platys are an entergetic breed, but they are all lying at the bottom of the tank. Also, the water is very cloudy, but I figured that was because I forgot to wash the gravel (oops...) are they just inactive because of the dust/being in a new environment, or am I doing something wrong? Please help me! Also, this is the first time I've worked with a tank this big. I've kept bettas my whole life, and decided I needed to branch out.

Answer
Hello Nicole,

Even though you added a cycling product, it still takes a minimum of 2 weeks to cycle.  The cloudiness could be from unsettled debris in the substrate, from filtration being improperly set up, from water which was put in from the tap, rather than filtered water...there are a number of things it could be from.

I suggest making sure feeding is proper and that the filtration is enough to accomodate your aquarium.

I'd really have to know more about the setup to properly answer this question, but those are my initial thoughts.

If you'd like to write back and include the tank's specifications, I will see if there's anything else that stands out.

The main thing is to remember that even though they sell dechlorinator, you should never use tap water.  Always use distilled or filtered.

Happy holidays.

Renee