WARNING: ONLY EXPERIENCED HOBBYISTS SHOULD ATTEMPT THIS

Latest update to the 55 gallon freshwater all natural ecosystem as of June 9, 2014.

Ammonia: 0
Nitrite: 0
Nitrate: 25
Temperature: 80-82

Only natural wood, live plants, naturally grown cladophora and rock with a water pump (for the fish require a stream-like movement and oxygen) and a heater to keep temperature consistent at 80-82 all year round.

Not a fish death in 4 months.

18 fish in all (semi-aggressive): Opaline Gouramis (7), Red Tail Shark (1), Black Khuli Loaches (4), Dwarf Chain Loaches (4); Trumpet Snails (over 200); Olive Nerite Snails (4, each over 6 years old), Ramshorn Trumpets (over 50); live plants, cladophora (naturally grown), rock, white sand, and malaysian wood.

I used to liquid water test the tank, I stopped this practice on January 27, 2013 (unless there is a death in the tank). I rely solely on observation. I top off the tank with about 5 gallons of freshwater non-chemical water each week due to evaporation. The tank is entirely lit by the window/sunlight and there is no filtration in the tank. Key to maintaining the tank in this manner are two things: observation and never overfeeding.

The fish are healthy, robust and active.

In October 2014 will be the three year anniversary of not performing water changes. I will update regarding the tank at that time.

Happy Fishing!!!

I appreciate your comments. See the pictures attached to this reply. Pictures taken on June 10, 2014.

More pictures June 10, 2014...hope you enjoy the pictures