Help Please With My New Tank

[keeton]

hi guys, im getting a new tank next week (29g) and wanted a mainly planted and rocky tank. i've been reading alot of threads and im getting very confused with CO2 for the plants, cycling etc etc. i already have a 12g tank and will be moving the fish only over to the new tank but would like some more info/guide on things and how i should be them.
1. what sand should i use? is this best for most plants and be alright with some gravel aswell? also be safe for fish.
2. diffuser? should 1 diffuser be alright?
3. once the pump is going and the diffuser is going should i add plants and rocks, then add cycle and abit of food to help the filter cycle?
4. how long should i let the tank cycle? and how often should i test the water? how much ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate etc etc should i have.
5. when everything is okay, then add fish?

cheers

 

[keeton]

or if anyone can point me in a direction of a step by step guide, or write me a small step by step guide

cheers

 

[aaronnorth]

http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?showtopic=286592


1) use a nutrient substrate if you can, as it will help in the long run. It can be cheap, and many people including my self have great sucess with JBL Aquabasis+

2) yes, many people use these:
http/cgi.ebay.co.uk/Set-of-2-Aquarium-CO...93%3A1|294%3A50

what type of CO2 system will you be using though? Fermentation (yeast + sugar > CO2), pressurized cannister, or liquid carbon.

for info on fishless cycling, read this:

http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?showtopic=277264

it takes about 4-8weeks.

ammonia 0ppm
nitrite 0ppm
nitrate 20ppm (this can be higher but it is just a minimum value we aim for in planted tanks)

please note the figures i have provided are when the filter is cycled and running smoothly. When cycling they do vary but everything is explained on the link above.

Alternatively you could do a silent cycle, where you plant heavily with fast growing stems (minimum 75% substrate coverage) and stock lightly to start with, then do frequent water changes so the ammonia is low at all times
http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?showtopic=287909