Best Filtration

[joshua_g]

Hi I have a TMC microhabitat 15l which I will be setting up as a planted betta tank. The tank has a rear filtration system. It has 3 compartments. The 3rd being for return pump and heater. Just wondering what everyone thinks would be the best thing to have in the other 2 compartments. I plan on using foam/floss in the first but I'm clueless as what to use in the second. I will be filling the tank with RO/DI water so 0tds and 0 ammonia, nitrite & nitrate.

 

[Far_King]

Firstly I would be very cautious about a heater in the same compartment as the pump.  The pumps can empty that chamber and the heater is then exposed to air rather than water.  I would suggest mounting this in the main tank.
 
Secondly you do not need RO water with a betta, far from it.  Conditioned tap water will be fine, at around 25 degrees c.
 
Thirdly, you need to cycle the tank to ensure that there is no ammonia or nitriites.  Water changes will remove the nitrate.
 
There is a cycling guide here : http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?/topic/421488-cycling-your-new-fresh-water-tank-read-this-first/

 

[StevenF]

 
 
I will be filling the tank with RO/DI water so 0tds and 0 ammonia, nitrite & nitrate.

Not that RO water has no elements in it that plants need to grow.  In my own personal experience with RO water is that plants will die in it.  You must a complete macro micro fertilizer such as Seachem fluorish comprehensive.  There is no need to DI water.  RO water more than clean enough.   
 
As to the heater you could try bury it in the substrate in the main tank compartment.  you should never run out of water there.  Hid the wire in the corner of the tank.   A 10 to 15 watt heater should be sufficient to keep the tank comfortable for the fish.

 

[AbbeysDad]

Fish and plants absolutely need minerals in the water to remain healthy. If your water is hard you can add a portion of RO water to soften, but RO should never be used alone unless you use additives for minerals and adjust for pH.
You can place a submersible heater low in the water but do nut bury it as it needs water circulation to maintain a reliable temperature.
Also, using water that is ammonia/nitrite/nitrate free does not preclude the need to develop the necessary beneficial bacterial for the nitrogen cycle. You must culture these bacteria in order for nitrosomonas to convert ammonia into nitrites and nitrobacter to convert nitrites into nitrates (then nitrates are removed through weekly partial water changes).
Good luck with your new tank!