Twisted Melon
Member
Hi all,
I had a planted tank about 20 years ago. Very low tech with just gravel. It worked out ok.
I’ve decided to get back into the hobby and have purchased a 280 litre tank. I intend it to be a planted tank, with CO2 and active substrate.
I’ve been learning loads recently about water parameters to refresh my own knowledge, and CO2 injection. But I know nothing about substrates!
What’s considered the best product? And what’s the best practice in using an active substrate? What are the common pitfalls I need to try to avoid?
Do I need a layer of something else on top of the substrate?
I hear they break down eventually and need replacing? Is that true? And are there any that don’t? I don’t want to be tearing my setup down every few years.
What’s this about gas problems if the substrate is too deep?
Sorry to ask so many questions.
Thanks for any help you can give!!
I had a planted tank about 20 years ago. Very low tech with just gravel. It worked out ok.
I’ve decided to get back into the hobby and have purchased a 280 litre tank. I intend it to be a planted tank, with CO2 and active substrate.
I’ve been learning loads recently about water parameters to refresh my own knowledge, and CO2 injection. But I know nothing about substrates!
What’s considered the best product? And what’s the best practice in using an active substrate? What are the common pitfalls I need to try to avoid?
Do I need a layer of something else on top of the substrate?
I hear they break down eventually and need replacing? Is that true? And are there any that don’t? I don’t want to be tearing my setup down every few years.
What’s this about gas problems if the substrate is too deep?
Sorry to ask so many questions.
Thanks for any help you can give!!