My snails are dying!

[jase75]

I have a young (2 months) tank (50 Gal) with some hair algae and other types growing. So far my 1 Turbo, 1 fighting conch and 4 Astreas have died. They were introduced about 3-4 weeks ago, drip acclimated. The other inverts (hermits, pep shrimp and nassarius) seem to be doing fine. Temp is about 78, pH at 8.2, ammonia and nitrites 0, sg 1.023 and nitrates at 20 or so. Are the nitrates my problem (I'm working on getting that down, ie water changes) or something else?

 

[Kates]

NITRATES my friend!

 

[mndfreeze]

Water changes more often, feed less!

I'm trying to learn to feed the 'right' levels for my few months old tank as well. I'm finding I can feed a lot less often then my animals make it LOOK lik they want food.

 

[jase75]

I know nitrate levels should be as close to zero as possible, but what is considered acceptable before adding new snails?