Sensitivity for Inverts vs High Life Forms

[ralphie16]

Are inverts more sensitive to water parameters like ammonia nitrite and nitrate levels? If so, then why are speciments like snails, hermits, and shrimp recommended as a tanks first inhabitants?

The only benfit of having them be in their first would be their minimal bioload on the still fragile system. They also would not require direct daily feedings like starter fish which would also drastically change the bioload.

So are they recommended to go in first because they can handle adverse water conditions better (which I dont think is true) or because they affect the system the least while the tank is still cycling.

 

[sir_dudeguy]

Are inverts more sensitive to water parameters

as compaired to what? Fish? Corals?

If so, then somwhat, but they're pretty hardy (for the most part). Its not till the nitrates get to a higher level that they're dangerous (like over 15 or so...fish arent affected by them as much).

But as always, the tank still needs to be cycled before anything goes in. So There shouldnt be amonia or nitrites anyways.

And yes, they're minimal on the bioload, so they dont even really add enough to cause any problems.

But yes, they can go in first cuz they're pretty hardy, and they dont really change the system much at all.