Substrate

[Flute]

Hi all,

I've just bought a Juwel Rio 180, and I've decided this time that I really want to have a proper go at aquascaping. I'm taking my time though and want to research everything before I buy, so I was wondering what everyone's opinions are on the best substrates for heavily planted tanks? Is it best to have layers of different substrates? If so, what has worked best for you?

At the moment I can't afford cO2 equipment, but it is something I will be saving up for in the future, but could someone tell me if these are any good? http/cgi.ebay.co.uk/Aquarium-CO2-Air-Stone-Diffuser-Atomizer-Regulator-/320562776516?cmd=ViewItem&pt=UK_Pet_Supplies_Fish&hash=item4aa307c9c4#ht_1733wt_911

If so, and they're safe, I might buy some.

Cheers!

 

[mtv8dmarine]

There are many kinds of substrate options out there from diatomite kitty litter (unscented and non-clumping), peat, pea gravel, sand, and flourite types.

Since the 180 comes with a little over 2 watts per gallon I would recommend some sort of substrate based fertilizer. This can be in the form of fert. tabs or substrate. CO2 injection whether by less expensive DIY methods or an actual kit should be your ultimate goal, especially with a heavily planted tank. A liquid carbon additive can be used in the interim but CO2 is the better option. A DIY CO2 system can be done on the cheap with yeast and some simple items. Since you're in the UK (I'm assuming) you can dose Total Plant Nutrition Plus (TPN+) as you have access to it there. Otherwise, you can read a little about mixing your own version for much cheaper from here.

I would recommend picking up a good book or two off Amazon.com since used books can be fairly cheap. I have "Encyclopedia of Aquarium Plants" by Peter Hiscock and it gives you a good understanding of the biological needs of plants in a very simple and straight forward presentation. It also goes over various common plants and lists plants based on lighting requirements and difficulty level. It's an invaluable resource for me as I continue to learn.

 

[Flute]

Thanks for the brilliant advice

I've had a look around for some substrate based fertilizer and I've found a few that look interesting. Could any one tell me if they've had any experience with this one? If not, what's a good alternative?

Also been looking at liquid fertilizers like these: Easy Life Set, AE Design aqua nourish or Ferka aquarium fertilizer.

Am I right in thinking that you put the substrate based fertilizer as a bottom layer, and then put another substrate such as sand on top?

Trying to find a cheaper alternative to getting a cO2 kit, not having much luck yet. Any ideas?
Really interested in getting those books that you suggested mtv8dmarine- will have to wait for pay day though D:

 

[ian]

the plant substrate i rate and recommend is Aquabasis plus. It really cheap for what it does. I have just started using the easylife fert range, to see if it works out cheaper than TPN plus. I have only been using it a couple of days, but others really rate the Easylife stuff. It is more cost effective to use EI method.

 

[Flute]

Cheers for that ianho Because I am on a bit of a tight budget I think I'll go with that one Easylife ferts was one that I was looking at, so I'll do some research and see if that'll be the cheapest for me to use.

Thanks again!