Starting a Planted Tank

Went tru some of the website, for a beginning ....the soil there are so many type so wat type of soil should I use...how thick or how many layer/type

[cwtan12]

www.my-mac.net That is Malaysian forum. It's easier for you to buy 2nd hand from there

Originally Posted by cwtan12

www.my-mac.net That is Malaysian forum. It's easier for you to buy 2nd hand from there

Thank for the website bro cwtan12.

Originally Posted by cyberaro

Went tru some of the website, for a beginning ....the soil there are so many type so wat type of soil should I use...how thick or how many layer/type

Substrate has only two portions:

• Base fertiliser
• Gravel

The base fertiliser is optional. Having a base fertiliser allows you to be more relaxed with liquid fertilisation as the base fertiliser can act as a backup reservoir of nutrients.

The gravel can be any aquarium sand you want. Get something that is the same size like the coarse sand you find at beaches.

The above does not apply if you are using ADA Aquasoil. ADA Aquasoil can just be put into the aquarium without base fertiliser. Aquasoil is vulnerable to breaking down (it's literally a soil) so it cannot be reused as effectively in other tanks. It needs to be treated with respect.

I typically go for 10cm at the back sloping down to 5cm in front. This slope helps to create depth in your tank. Try going for higher at the back like 15cm, since this slope will flatten out over time by itself.

Just to add on to what Terence said, it is also dependent on your budget. ADA aquasoil is more expensive than a lapis sand and base fert combo.

There is no "perfect" substrate that will always work wonders. You can read up on the various brands of substrates and decide for yourself.

-Calvin

Thank to all helpful bro in AF.....basically now I noe some basic thing about planted tank...keep the input coming I'm still learning and some time ask qn that sound silly to u all....anyway sorry if it sounded that way.

No question should be called a silly question!

Originally Posted by |squee|

No question should be called a silly question!

Thanks

I am starting a 4 ft plant tank with simple metal stand (purchased 2nd hand) and below are my cost expended so far.

4ft x 2ft x 2ft tank with gravel, fish & plants = $160
Transport (est.) = $ 70
1.5 years old Cannister (sun sun brand) = $ 50
4 ft PL light 4 x 36w = $ 80

Total = $360

Cost of CO2 system not included yet because I have not found a working second hand system. Second hand PL lights could be gotten cheaper because I just saw one bro advertised for $40 for 4ft lights.