Substrate For New 10 Gallon

[srolfe]

My Nephew gave me his unused 10 Gallon setup. I have a 36 Gallon Bowfront Planted Tank with a soil substrate with a gravel topping. I plan on placing Java Moss and maybe a few Java Fern in the 10G tank. Since there will be no plants directly in the substrate, should I place a soil substate at all or just go with gravel? Also, will the Moss overwhelm the fern?

 

[modernhamlet]

Given that you're not planting anything at all in the substrate, I would go with whatever substrate you want based on appearance. You're probably best served with an inert gravel or sand. You certainly won't want nutrient rich soil (that has potential drawbacks) if you're not getting the benefits.

With minimal trimming, java fern holds its own just fine with java moss.

 

[jimbooo]

i totally agree. no need for it at all. as both are slow growers the pruning will be very occasional so you can arrange it how you want and just leave it be.