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Hi, i am looking for a substrate for my 4ft 90gal tank, the tank will have a variety of plants, light will be 2 double compacts with total 160w, i am thinking of Co2 but not at the start.

There is a shop near me selling pool filter sand that is acually 100% Zeolite, its fairly cheap at $15 for 15kg but would it work using Zeolite?

Any sugestions?

Hi,
You might want to read this article:
http://home.infinet.net/teban/jamie.htm

Additionally, AQUARIUM FISH had an article on substrates.
I believe it was in the 2004 series. If you want I can
research it.

There is also a "Post it Note" here on FP in the Aquarium
Plant section part of which deals with substrates.

Substrates can be just about anything from beach or play
sand to the more exotic Flourite, and others. Most folks
are ruled by their available dollars, and what they
preceive looks nice in their tank and room.

Substrates serve to provide anchorage for plants, and are
home to the bacteria colonies that run the nitrogen cycle.

Each has its pros and cons, and each its supporters and
detractors. If you are going to be serious about plants,
then 100% flourite is probably the best. Some don't like
its color, others don't like how cloudy it can make the
water when disturbed. Some like to use a mixture of
Laterite (ancient clay) and sand or gravel.

It's a whole subject by itself. If you have any specific
questions, just ask. I, and others will be happy to help.

Frank


Last edited by FRANK at 08-Nov-2005 22:57

-->>> The Confidence of Amateurs, is the Envy of Professionals <<<--

I've been using a large sand blasting sand in my tanks for several years and love it...wouldn't use anything else. The particles are approximately 1/16th - 1/8". I pay $5 for a 100 lb bag. Here are some pics of my newest planted tank. I put a thin layer of flourite through the middle and the plants are doing great. I haven't posted any recent pics but you can see what it looks like with the gravel.

http://community.webshots.com/album/459553078ENNLOA

James

Thanks i will try and find some, your tanks looks great.