Newbee

[leehardy9]

hi all im just starting a new tropical tank ive never had tropical fish b4 and want to no the best gravel for planting real plants and food for them

 

[Npatton5]

I've not found one better than another. Just make sure to rinse the gravel really well with water using a strainer before putting it into the tank. 

 

[fluttermoth]

If you think you might like corydoras catfish or loaches in the future, look at having sand rather than gravel. It's much bettter for them, as gravel can wear away their sensitive barbels.

Most low light plants (other ones need all sorts of high tech equipment/fertilizers) will be happy in plain sand or gravel.

A good quality flake is the basis of a healthy diet, with treats of frozen, live food or vegetables (depending on the exact species of fish) to give variety.

Above and beyond those things though, is understanding cycling. Have a look through our 'Cycle Your Tank' sub forum for more info on that. We always recommend fishless cycles on this forum

 

[leehardy9]

hi all i got some play sand rinsed it and now its cloudy as hell gutted will i after start my tank and cycle again.thank for the help

 

[fluttermoth]

Yes, playsand does need a heck of a lot of rinsing. You have to be really brutal about throwing away all the loose stuff, even if you lose a bit of the 'good' sand along with it.

 

[leehardy9]

will it clear or do i need to start the tank again

 

[fluttermoth]

Best take the sand out and wash it again, tbh. You don't want that light dust in there, even if it settles, as your fish and water changes will stir it all up.

You have to keep rinsing and pouring away until all you have left in your bucket is sand that sinks within a minute or so of being stirred up.

 

[Tongue_Flicker]

Hey welcome aboard!

 

[carmstrong]

to TFF!
 
We are all 

cool people, so come enjoy i'm sure you'll fit right in!