Substrate

[Abner1]

In my 75 gallon tank I used a 50/50 blend of fluval stratum and organic potting soil. I sifted the potting soil to remove any large chunks of wood and debris. I capped it with a fine gravel. Learned a lot on this tank. Cap is too deep and it took a while for the Pygmy chain sword to take off. It took about 6 weeks to cycle and I allowed another 2 for biofilm and algae to get a strong foothold. Ph settled in at 7.6, nitrate stays <20, gh 11, kh 6. It has been a very stable tank for several months. Shrimp breed enough to maintain a stable population and the fish keep them from over running the tank. all and all I am very happy with it. Picks are initial setup.

 

[bgarthe22 39]

Nice set up. That is an awesome piece of wood.