Peat As A Substrate

Tonym · Jul 22, 2009

I have been toying with the idea of using Peat as a substate in my 96L tank, so it would be a proper amazon biotype. But cant find much on the net about peat substrates has anbody ever had or still does have a peat substrate also what experiances do you have of this.

natalie265 · Jul 22, 2009

No, but i'm curious to see your results if you go ahead with it. I do FILTER through peat. Be prepared to have your water turn amber colored (which i think is nice and Amazonian like myself). I've heard of people adding peat TO their substrate, but never heard of anyone using it AS the substrate. Sorry i'm not much help, but best of luck to you.

Inchworm · Jul 23, 2009

Can anyone add anything to this? :unsure:

TylerFerretLord · Jul 23, 2009

http

/mikes-machine.mine.nu/blackwater_breeding_tank.htm

This guy used peat for a blackwater tank. pH stayed very low.

Tonym · Jul 24, 2009

I think im definatly going to have a go with a peat substrate Thanks TylerFerretLord for posting the article it was very helpful, now i just have to try and source some peat which doesnt have chemicals added to it. The ph shouldnt be a problem as the water is hard in my area although it comes out the tap at ph 7, when in a tank it rises to around ph 8. so by adding the peat it will soften the water and also lower the ph.

saz326 · Jul 24, 2009

Im not sure how available peat will be in the near future - Peat is being banned from soils and composts from 2010 onwards due to wetlands erosion and various ecological reasons..... I have no idea if you will be able to replace the peat in your tank when the time comes.

natalie265 · Jul 26, 2009

Have you heard of a substrate called Amazonia? Just came across it today in another forum. People seem to have good things to say about it. http

/www.adgshop.com/Aqua_Soil_Amazonia_p/104-021.htm

Tonym · Jul 28, 2009

Brought some peat moss which is used for discus and killis and some Indian Almond Leaves will let you know what happens, Natalie the Amazonia does look like a good product I dont seem to be able to get hold of it in the UK.