Do i need to vacuum the gravel in my light to medium planted tank?
Re: Do i need to vacuum the gravel in my light to medium planted tank?
These days, unless you're using an undergravel filter, I don't think vacuuming the gravel is necessary. What I do is just gently stir up the soil line and under the front glass, making sure that area looks clean. The rest of the aquarium can benefit from the mulm, it's good for the plant roots.
Re: Do i need to vacuum the gravel in my light to medium planted tank?
If you've got a carpet that reaches the front glass, I'd really advise covering it up with something visually appealing, like molding or even just some black tape, to be honest. That area is a haven for BGA, I've seen it in even the most well-designed aquariums. Cutting off the light is the key to solving the issue. It's just not a good look when you've got BGA below the substrate in the front, making bubbles.