New Tank...Cloudy

Question
Hi,

I've just set up a new tank, and all was well until after 3 days when I noticed the tank getting very slightly cloudy. Petsmart recommended Mardel Brite 'n Clear, which i added. As soon as i added it, the water turned really milky, and hadn't cleared at all after 24 hours. They said to add more, which i did, now it's even worse. i have two Pengiun 200 filters on a 48 gal tank. The fish are all fine. Any help MUCH appreciated. :-)

Answer
Hi Andy
Don't use that product anymore.  In fact, stay away from most chemical products out there lol.  And, don't rely on pet store employees for advice....most just are not informed very well on fish or pet care.  Do your research online before buying anything, including fish.  The only real chemical needed in a fish tank, is a water dechlorinator to remove chlorine and chloramine, if you're on a public water supply.

What's going on with your tank is totally normal(aside from the after effects of the chemical).  All new tanks go through what's called the cycle process or the nitrogen cycle process of a fish tank.  Here's a link that explains what it is, it's the first article on there:

http://freshaquarium.about.com/od/startupcycle/Step_5_The_Cycle.htm

The cloudy water that shows up is called a bacterial bloom, usually a white/greyish color tint to the water.  It's basically the start of the cycle process, and it's the bacteria starting to colonize.
It should clear up on it's own within about a week or so.  Be sure to read through that link though, and if you have any questions ask.  Because it's normal, but your tank water is going to get pretty poor soon, and your fish may not survive it.  You'll need to pick up a good test kit that tests for ammonia, nitrites, nitrates, and ph.  API brand makes a good one for about 30.00, it's a liquid dropper test, which is better then the dipstick test kits.  You'll need to monitor those levels I mentioned closely for a few weeks while the tank cycles.  Takes about 8-12 weeks for the tank to completely cycle.  And during that time, you'll most likely need to do daily water changes to help the fish to survive.  Like  I said, read through that link, also do a google search for the cycle process or nitrogen cycle of a fish tank for more articles to read.  THen let me know if you have more questions!

Christy