Question about Filters/Lights

[pseudoblond]

Okay...I've had fish for years (mostly cichlids, knifes, loaches, misc sharks and crabs, all freshwater) but I've never really gotten into the technicalities of different filters. I've been happy with my biowheel (I believe its a 120, but I'm not at home to check so I could be wrong) and I've never had a problem with it. Now, I'm wanting to get more into expensive fish (I'm gettin' the itch for a Discus) and I want to learn more before I even start looking. I understand how to maintain water quality, but I'm a bit confused on equipment. I know theres hundreds of different things I can get, but I have a couple of questions. I'm sorry if they sound stupid, but I'm just trying to clarify what I haven't been able to get a clear understanding of online...
1)What is the difference between a biological and canister filter?
2)Is it necessary to have both to maintain a large tank?
3)What are the best kind of lights/fixtures to support live plants?
Thanks for the help, I've found so much much information and its hard to actually sort it all out!! I appreciate any advice anyone can give me on equipment, or any advice on Discus (keeping them in general, I have a lot of info already as well). Thanks!!!

[acefred]

1. Bioogical filters are in place in all tanks, they are just good bacteria that cling to solid objects and turn Ammonia into less toxic products..........A canister filter is just another form of filters we have a choice of (most people will say these are the way to go)
2. You will have biological in any tank (the more the better) a canister (or multiple canisters) are the way to go, they allow for a variety of media to be used, create a very 'clean' tank and are easy to maintane
3. I don't have live plants, but from what I've seen you want a broad spectrum light and fairly high watts per gallon.

[Karnaaj]

If you have any kind of a filter at all in your tank you have a biological filter. Bacteria that comprise the nitrogen cycle live on all the surfaces of your tank, but they are most numerous in your filter because that is where the water flow is. Filters also have mechanical filtration capabilities in the form of sponges or pads that filter out the larger particles in the water. If you just ran your biowheel filter with no pad (like I do) then you have a straight biological filter. If you put a pad in you've just added mechanical filtration as well.

As far as lighting is concerned most people go with compact fluorescent fixtures because they give off so much more light than regular fluorescent fixtures do. They also cost more money. Rex Grigg (http://www.rexgrigg.com/) has a great site for all the info you'll need to succeed. Planted Tank Forum (http://www.plantedtank.net/forums/) is a great place to go for more in depth info.

[Harlock]

You know, the Aquatic Plant Forum right here on Aquaria Central is chock full of folks that can help you set up a planted tank. That's where I got the bug and learned a ton.

[A7ESF]

You know, the Aquatic Plant Forum right here on Aquaria Central is chock full of folks that can help you set up a planted tank. That's where I got the bug and learned a ton.


Agreed, it's on my daily must read list!