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The Drs. Foster and Smith site has a CO2 Natural Plant System made by Hagen. I am thinking about getting this for my 10g. I want CO2, but don't want the hassel of DIY for this tank. You have to add the yeast mixture to this system, but atleast I wouldn't have to rig up anything.
Has anyone used this? What are your thoughts?

Also, what is a good light for a 10g. I only have 2wpg now with the regular hood (and compact fluorescent bulbs). If I was to set up CO2, I want to have 3-4 wpg. I just can't seem to find a light small enough, but with enough watts.

*Kristin*

Beats me on the CO2, but you can get 72watts on your tank if you really wanted, using a retrofit kit from AHSupply.com If you scroll down, the 36 watt bright kits will fit on your tank. A 1 x 36 watt bright kit should do just fine, and it should fit into your existing light fixture. This requires that you strip your old light, and install the new fixture into the shell. This kit buys you everything but the bulb where you can either get there, or a place of your choice.

I would caution you that the installation involves some wiring, and if you're unsure, have someone who's in the know wire it up.

Good luck

i used the co2 system in an 80L tank and liked the results

OH TOLEEDY!

Thanks guys. I don't know anything about wiring stuff up...so I will definitely have to find someone to do it for me.

*Kristin*

Hi GirlieGirl, I just put the Hagen System on my 25 gallon and it was really easy to install, the ladder helps to diffuse the CO2 bubbles so be sure to get the whole kit, not just the canister and tubing. Once you've got it set up a DIY system seems much more easy to do, and I will be switching the canister out for a 2l pop bottle and using the Hagen canister on my 10 gallon. The trick with the yeast is to activate it before adding it to the sugar water, don't add more yeast than what comes with the kit, but you won't need to buy refills of either packets, the activator is yeast, the stabilizer is baking soda, they can be found in any grocery store and even are in my kitchen, and I don't bake that often! You can also sterilize the set up, add the sugar then add boiling water almost to the top, leave room for the yeast mixture you will make, place the lid on and shake it up really well then allow it to cool with the lid on. When it has cooled to around room temp, add the activated yeast. To actvate the yeast place it in a small bowl and add warm water, about 90 F, whisk it up really frothy then add it to the canister, be sure not to add too much water, it should all fit in the canister. I got this idea from the article posted in the thread CO2 Recipe over in Planted Tanks I believe. Good Luck!

"If you're afraid you'll make a mistake, you won't make anything."
-Family Circus

Belive it or not IME I have found that with proper reflection, i.e. bright foil that much light may be enough. I have ran up the numbers and done a lot of research on the subject of lighting and I know that the opinions vary widly however, try growing your high light plants or medium to high in it and see how it goes. You may be plesently supprised, or may descide you need more light.

yes I agree with mr wizerd...
line the inside of your light hood with aluminum
foil to improve lighting.


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