Converting to a planted tank: question

[michelliot]

I plan to add live plants to my existing tank and I'm inquiring about the recommended filtration. I'm going with a cannister system because I'm under the impression that surface (power) filters create ripples on the water which can dissipate the much needed CO2 in a planted system. Also would the use of bubble tubes or stones be detrimental. Will someone please confirm or correct my understanding of this situation.

THANKS IN ADVANCE
Elliot

[NJ Devils Fan]

You got it right, you generally don't want much surface agitation in a planted aquarium because the CO2 will gas off. It is important to have a good way of diffusing your CO2. Airstones are not good because once the CO2 bubbles hit the surface, they are released into the atmosphere. I would build a diffuser similiar to this (http://members.tripod.com/njdevilsfan130) in my DiY plans. It is probably the most effective way of diffusion.

[TKOS]

I just did a thread with this and the information I got was that if you use CO2 injection of some sort (DIY etc...) then surface agitation will throw off all that extra CO2 you just put in. Not a good idea. But if you are not adding extra Co2 then surface agitation will just allow your tank to reach an equilibrium with the atmosphere. So you really won't loose CO2 at all as you don't have extra to begin with. So airstones are fine if you like them.