Help me with plant selection!

[slapnutz]

I set up my 55 gallon tank with gravel and some slate, and now have decided to go a different direction. I have ordered 3 20lb bags of Eco-Complete planted. I also have a 17" +/- piece of driftwood coming in from mgamer. The slate will be reorganized on one side, with caves and hiding spots and such. The tank will be switched from a HOB filter to a wet/dry sump system. The tank currently has 3 pictus cats, a pair of GBR's, 7 coryadoras, a royal pleco, and one other pleco (not sure what kind). I will be adding 5 discus to finish off the tank. I am looking at this light fixture for the tank (http://cgi.ebay.com/48-4ft-T5-HO-High-Output-Aquarium-Light-216W-Plant-Ver_W0QQitemZ290335974965QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_Def aultDomain_0?hash=item43995f6635&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14). I have been doing a little research, and based on what I've gathered, with that bright of a light I would need co2. I found this kit that looks like it will work and is reasonably priced (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=350184808006&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT).

What do you pro's think about the equipment? And what plants would you recommend?

[roscoe70]

Definitely not a pro here, that said I don't thing you are going to get much run time with the canister size that comes with that kit. Just guessing I would think less than a month could be expected given the 55 gallon tank. JMHO but good luck. I know others will better able provide direction for you.

[slapnutz]

Definitely not a pro here, that said I don't thing you are going to get much run time with the canister size that comes with that kit. Just guessing I would think less than a month could be expected given the 55 gallon tank. JMHO but good luck. I know others will better able provide direction for you.

I was just going off what the product description says, so I'm definitely open to other ideas.

Maybe something like this instead? http://cgi.ebay.com/RED-SEA-CO2-Pro-System-for-Paintball-Cylinders_W0QQitemZ110414353702QQcmdZViewItemQQptZ LH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item19b5355526&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14

[dundadundun]

co2 definitely with that light. the second system imo is a way better option. you will need a paintball co2 cylinder also for that system.

a sump imo is a bad idea if you're injecting co2. a canister filter would be much better to keep the co2 from gassing off in great quantities.

to suggest plants... hmmm... anything you want provided you fertilize correctly.

[slapnutz]

I understand that the co2 loss is higher with a sump, but I don't think I understand enough of it. If I use that Red Sea kit, and have the co2 injected into the bottom of the tank, wouldn't that suffice?