Tank Crashed lost everything

nothing is alive but snails,and a little polyp coral and a few hermit crabs.I took all the coral that made it to a friends house so she could keep them till i get this handled.I will let you know how it goes.Might be messaging you if i need help with anything and you dont get to the post.You have been a huge help.Thanks alot.I was on the verge of giving up

 

It will come around again, there is a saying in this hobby that is soooo true.

Nothing good happens fast in this hobby

Just proceed slowly now, stock slowly and make minor adjustments, wait and watch for the result before proceeding to make another adjustment.

We have all had some degree of a crashing tank at one time or another, don't feel so bad.

 

At what point can i add a fish again.As soon as all the levels check out?

 

I would wait until all the levels are good for a few days straight. I am patient when it comes to this hobby. I know it is difficult to be sometimes, but it usually works out for the best. Just go with the advice you've received so far about water changes. Get a container to mix your salt and water for a day or so before adding it. Also, look into getting a Refractometer ($30 on eBay) for salinity. MUCH more accurate than a Hydrometer, and will last longer. Make sure to get some calibration fluid as well. Good luck and keep us updated.

 

After you do the smaller water changes and if the parameters are in line you could probably add one hardy fish in a week to be on the safe side.

Your biological filter I would think is probably still functioning and should make a nice bounce back if it was altered.

If the water quality was extremely bad you would have lost the snails and hermits so that is a good sign.

 

When you get the Refractometer... Make darn good and sure you get that calibration fluid and check the refract relatively often. Mine got way out of whack and almost lead to a tank wipe as well.

@op - take your time. Don't give up. In the end you will be glad you stuck it out with your tank!!

 

Walmart has 18 gallon tubs with lids on sale for $5! I have 2 with an extra heater and cheapy maxijet! 1 to use as ready made salt water just for such an invent and 1 to use as a hospital tank!

Good luck bro!

 

checked the parameters last night and they were amazingly spot on.Ive never seen them so close to the color they are supposed to be.I will wait a few days and add a fish...Thanks for all your help