Water change schedule for big fish in small tank.

[ralphie16]

I am about to (in a few weeks) move my porcupine puffer out of a 29 gallon QT that it has been living in for many months. Tank has a small powerhead, 20-30 lbs of live rock, and a power filter with no mechanical filtration (just biowheel). In the beginning I tested the water and did 20% water changes every 2 days until the bacteria was able to catch up. Presently, in order to keep the water optimal I do 20% water changes twice a week now. I know it really sucks to have this 5" puffer in a 29 gallon but he will be moved out soon, but is this water change regime ok? I feed a shrimp or scallop or clam every other day to the puffer soaked in vitamins.

[leebca]

I think the plan is good, but don't get lulled into not checking the water quality. You want to not only check for the obvious test kit things, but consider other problems as well: What is Water Quality