Converting from gravel to substrate/soil: advice needed
Posted: Wed May 17, 2023 3:25 pm
Hi all, I'm planning on switching my 46 gallon bowfront planted tank from gravel to a substrate/soil base for better aquascaping. I've got a Fluval 3.0 light, CO2, and about 20 live bearers in there now. My pH is around 7.8 and the water is fairly hard, which I'm not thrilled about.
I've already picked up two bags of Caribsea Eco-planted black substrate, which was recommended by my LFS. Should I be concerned about using this? I can return it if needed.
For the soil, I'm thinking of using it on top of the substrate - maybe Eco-complete or something else. I've been told to aim for a 2" depth in the front and 6" in the back for a carpet. Is that too much or too little?
I've gotten advice that ADA Aqua Soil Ver 2 (9L) is the way to go, but I've also been suggested Fluval Plant and Shrimp Stratum. Are there other options I should consider? I'll probably have to buy it online since my LFS doesn't carry it.
To avoid ammonia issues, I'm planning to cycle the soil in my empty 10gallon quarantine tank first. I'll put the soil in there, let it cycle, and then transfer it to the main tank section by section. I'll transplant my current plants into the new soil as I go, removing the gravel at the same time.
I've also been told that adding Bacter AE to the tank can help grow the right bacteria in the soil. Is that a good idea? Should I add it while cycling the soil in the 10g tank or after I put it in the main tank?
Any help or opinions on my plan would be much appreciated.
I've already picked up two bags of Caribsea Eco-planted black substrate, which was recommended by my LFS. Should I be concerned about using this? I can return it if needed.
For the soil, I'm thinking of using it on top of the substrate - maybe Eco-complete or something else. I've been told to aim for a 2" depth in the front and 6" in the back for a carpet. Is that too much or too little?
I've gotten advice that ADA Aqua Soil Ver 2 (9L) is the way to go, but I've also been suggested Fluval Plant and Shrimp Stratum. Are there other options I should consider? I'll probably have to buy it online since my LFS doesn't carry it.
To avoid ammonia issues, I'm planning to cycle the soil in my empty 10gallon quarantine tank first. I'll put the soil in there, let it cycle, and then transfer it to the main tank section by section. I'll transplant my current plants into the new soil as I go, removing the gravel at the same time.
I've also been told that adding Bacter AE to the tank can help grow the right bacteria in the soil. Is that a good idea? Should I add it while cycling the soil in the 10g tank or after I put it in the main tank?
Any help or opinions on my plan would be much appreciated.