Substrate?

[Tropicaltone1980]

Hi all

I have been looking into different substrates for my 60"x20"x20" aquarium. I have noticed there is a lot of conflicting information about it. What do you all think do you need to spend a lot of money on special ferterlizing substrate or will reqular gravel do the job just as well??

 

[QuotheRaven]

Sand is easier to root plants with is that another option as sand is very good for bottom dwellers aswell

 

[Themuleous]

If you want decent plant growth then IMHO a good plant substrate is a must. You don't have to send a fortune either. If you want a high tech planted scape with lots of lush growth, then spend the money, you wont regret it.

What are your plans/aims?

Sam

 

[Tropicaltone1980]

I am hoping to setup a Dutch aquarium, with java moss, ferns, and some Repens etc...

 

[JamesC]

I use just a quartz sand for my substrate with great results. Having a good plant substrate will help the plants though and give you more room for error with your dosing. I find quartz sand/fine gravel a lot easier to work with than the lighter plant substrates.

 

[Tropicaltone1980]

Jamesc if thats your tank in the picture, very nice job you've made of it similar to what I want to do

 

[JamesC]

That's it. It's changed a bit now though and the background has gone black. When the new plants have grown in then I'll take some more photos. I do have a bit of cactus compost below the quartz sand at the front but aren't too sure if it has made much difference.

 

[Tropicaltone1980]

Looks good JamesC. What do you think of this setup? Jewel Rio 400ltr 60"x20"x20" with 2x36w T8 and 2x55w T5. JBL CO2 injection, Eheim External Filter + Jewel Rio Filter and maybe a UV sterilizer.

Dutch aquarium style planting with some Bogwood

Fish

3x Silver Bala Sharks (or maybe two)
4x Golden Barbs
16x Diamond Neon Tetras
1x Siamese Algae Eater
4x Chained loachs
5x Pepperd Corydoras
3x Otos
1x Bristlenosed Pleco

 

[JamesC]

Looks good. Your lighting is just about right for your size of tank. The JBL CO2 system may struggle with keeping the CO2 levels up but is easily rectified with a better diffuser/reactor. Give it a go first and see how well it works. An extra eheim filter is an excellent idea and will help circulation.

James