Gravel/substrate Changeover To Fluorite Or Similar!

[shmikuk]

I would like to change the (medium sized pea) gravel in my tank for something that looks a little more attractive and offers the live plants that i have more nutrients. The tank i have, is an Aquaone 510 and holds about 75 litres. I have looked into buying the RedSea FloraBase substrate but feel it is a little lacking in 'character' thus went on to look at the SeaChem Fluorite substrate which looks a little nicer/more natural. At the moment I have 6 kuli loaches, 6 ottos and 3 (naughty) dwarf puffers . Does anyone have any suggestions to what i could use to have a natural but plant friendly tank base?

Also i have a slight problem with hair/beard algae. I am treating with an Interpet Anti-Algae treatment, but this doesn't seem to be working. Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance

 

[BHornsey]

Hi,

There are many substrates available. I've got two tanks with Dennerle substrates, One with Aqua Medic's Volcanit and one with plain old pond compost!
If you want cheap, there's nothing wrong with soil or compost. Plantbrain has posted a nice article on this; Use of soil which gives you plenty of advice.

As for your algae issues, the treatments are addressing symptoms not causes. We'd need a bit more info about your tank, stocking, any plants, and any ferts used.