View Full Version : best CO2 for 55?
mtdewlover
11-13-2003, 9:41 AM
I have a 55 gallon tank cycling right now. It's going to be a cichlid tank planted tank. I don't know what the best way to do CO2 is? I've read about these DYI systems like the Hagen CO2 plant system. Or I don't know if I should buy a CO2 tank and do it thay way. Can anyone shed some light on this topic for me? :confused:
MrGoodbytes
11-13-2003, 10:38 AM
Cichlids?... Plants?...
What kind of cichlids, because you might be looking at a mess in the future if you get live plants?
Your most efficient and economical option would be to get a pressurized system. I don't have experience with the, but many people on here do.
Graeme
JCason
11-13-2003, 11:59 AM
I used the Hagen (actually 2) and hated it. Also tried the Jungle Fizz Factory to no avail. I am switching to pressurized now so I can't tell you how it will go. All the money I spent on these other things could have paid for the pressurized. My opinion is pressurized though b/c it is costly in the beginning but then you only hae a $6-$10 fee once every 8 months to a year.
tanker
11-14-2003, 2:00 AM
Originally posted by JCason
I used the Hagen (actually 2) and hated it. Also tried the Jungle Fizz Factory to no avail. I am switching to pressurized now so I can't tell you how it will go. All the money I spent on these other things could have paid for the pressurized. My opinion is pressurized though b/c it is costly in the beginning but then you only hae a $6-$10 fee once every 8 months to a year.
I took same route and arrived at same destination. Get pressurized CO2. You will be happier.
PS--Plants and Cichlid?? Does not sound good. What kind of cichlids??
mtdewlover
11-14-2003, 7:41 AM
Right now I have 5 african cichlids in a 29 gallon tank. I have decided to buy them a new one. They are three red zebras and two yellow tailed violet cichlids. I'll put some catfish and a bristlenose in my new 55. My boyfriend has a planted 30 with africans and has no problem. I'm hoping with the right plants they will leave them alone. :) Wish me luck! ;)
Most DIY CO2 applications are time consuming and tedious. I worked(and I mean worked) at it for months before switching to pressurized. Just making up the 4 bottles(what I needed for my 55 gal.) was a pain, but constantly having to watch pH to keep some semblance of consistency was nerve-wracking.
Since the change to pressurized I don't have to worry about pH movement or buying 10lbs. of sugar at the supermarket every 2 weeks.
I would recommend pressurized. You'll be much happier with it.
I think the compatibility of cichlids with plants largely depends on the size of the fish, although there are some Africans that are ferocious diggers. But if it works for you........go for it.
BTW, does your boyfriend use CO2? It will bring your pH down and my understanding is that many Africans are happier in the upper 7's. Something to consider.
Len
tanker
11-14-2003, 12:55 PM
Hey Mtdewlover:
CO2 will lower PH, not what you want for African cichlids. They want high PH. Why not just go with low light plants, they may handle A-cichlids better anyway. Plants like anubius, Java fern, maybe some hygro. These all will grow well under normal lights and need not have CO2, and they can handle digging cichlids better.
PS == Your A-cichlids needs some rock work to feel happy, this to will "eat into" your space for plants. Not trying to discourage you from CO2 but IMO not needed for your choise of plant and fish tank.
GOOD LUCK :)
mtdewlover
11-14-2003, 2:46 PM
Yes my boyfriend uses co2. He has blue zebras and yellow labs. He has crushed coral on the top of his gravel. I have crushed coral in my filter. Luckily I have some inside tips with this. I plan on getting the hardiest plants there are, but probably will still need extra lighting and a little co2. I'm always up for a challange. :p
bobalston
11-17-2003, 6:50 PM
I would suggest you start with DIY CO2 to try it out. It is easy to do and very cheap. Once you see the results and want to keep doing it, get a pressurized system.
Take a look at my web site for some info on DIY co2, a lot of info on sources of tanks and regulators and likely more information than you will ever want to know on needle/metering valves.
Bob
http://members.cox.net/tulsaalstons/AquaticPlants.htm#High%20Pressure%20CO2
African Rift Lake fish want somewhat mineralized water more than a particular pH - IMHO it is more an osmotic thing than a pH thing.