Actually I am not even a newbie yet, as I am still in the planning stages. I already have a 55 gallon african tank, and a spare 20h that I want to do something different with.
I've already decided that I am going to set up a planted community tank with either a pair of rams or apistos, but I would like some experienced input as far as the substrate is concerned.
What is the best substrate to use for a planted apisto/ ram tank? I have been considering the eco-complete plant substrate or flourite and am open to suggestions. I've seen people list several layers (peat, laterite, flourite...) or just use sand.
I'll be using tap water, 2 20-watt bulbs, and am planning on putting together a DIY CO2 system. I have enough pool filter sand and play sand to use either, but I thought the plants might do better in the either the clay, or the eco-complete. I think the darker color of those substrates would look nicer in the planted tank as well.
I've already decided that I am going to set up a planted community tank with either a pair of rams or apistos, but I would like some experienced input as far as the substrate is concerned.
What is the best substrate to use for a planted apisto/ ram tank? I have been considering the eco-complete plant substrate or flourite and am open to suggestions. I've seen people list several layers (peat, laterite, flourite...) or just use sand.
I'll be using tap water, 2 20-watt bulbs, and am planning on putting together a DIY CO2 system. I have enough pool filter sand and play sand to use either, but I thought the plants might do better in the either the clay, or the eco-complete. I think the darker color of those substrates would look nicer in the planted tank as well.