Hi everyone. I've kept aquariums on and off for the past 20 years but I've never done anything more than the occasional live plant or 2. I have a 30 gallon tall that I'd really like to convert into a nice aquascape but my head is spinning from everything I've been reading on here. Can anyone suggest a good book that would help me get started?
In the mean time maybe just a few questions :grinno:
Since I'm just starting out I wanted to keep things pretty basic. I've looked at a ton of picture over the past few weeks and I really like the idea of going with a full carpet (either Eleocharis Parvula or Hemianthus Callitrichoides "Cuba") with some stones and/or drift wood on some natural looking hills.
My main questions are about lighting and CO2 requirements with those plants. Right now I have a standard hood with a single full spectrum 15W T8 bulb. I assume that wouldn't be sufficient from what I've read. I'd appreciate some suggestions on what the best lighting options would be. The same goes for CO2 if that is going to be required. I have zero experience with CO2 or their systems so any help would be great.
From a general maintenance perspective what is required once the tank is up and running? I've read a lot about fertilizer dosing but I'm still unclear. What about water changes? I do a 20% change weekly now with no plants, 7 small fish and 2 shrimp and they all seem to be healthy and happy. I've had this current set up for almost 6 months.
In the mean time maybe just a few questions :grinno:
Since I'm just starting out I wanted to keep things pretty basic. I've looked at a ton of picture over the past few weeks and I really like the idea of going with a full carpet (either Eleocharis Parvula or Hemianthus Callitrichoides "Cuba") with some stones and/or drift wood on some natural looking hills.
My main questions are about lighting and CO2 requirements with those plants. Right now I have a standard hood with a single full spectrum 15W T8 bulb. I assume that wouldn't be sufficient from what I've read. I'd appreciate some suggestions on what the best lighting options would be. The same goes for CO2 if that is going to be required. I have zero experience with CO2 or their systems so any help would be great.
From a general maintenance perspective what is required once the tank is up and running? I've read a lot about fertilizer dosing but I'm still unclear. What about water changes? I do a 20% change weekly now with no plants, 7 small fish and 2 shrimp and they all seem to be healthy and happy. I've had this current set up for almost 6 months.