Any suggestions?

[creoguy]

I finally got around to starting my RCS tank today. Just a basic 10 gallon All-Glass tank with the stock 15 watt florescent bulb. Gonna start cycling it tomorrow and will be putting together a cover for the filter intake before the shrimp are put in. Just have some Petco drift wood with some Java Moss strapped down for now.

Any suggestions... more plants, rocks, move some stuff around?

 

[Yadokari]

I would add more moss, unless you want those to grow. But I hear Java Moss grows really slow...

 

[Mgamer20o0]

maybe some crypts or anubis. i would look to add a couple more low light plants.

 

[Fishy_Fun]

you could go for a moss wall they look really neat once there growing.i have java moss in mine but would prefer christmas moss

 

[thebullit]

looks like a good start. keep us posted

 

[msjinkzd]

I would get some crypts or something like anacharis or hornwort for varied texture. I like my moss walls as well, but your start looks good!

 

[fishorama]

I agree, java fern &/or some crypts would be nice. (what's with the no crypt/ no anubias with shrimp guy? eek, I'm new to shrimp)

 

[mphunk]

Good Start!

 

[pixl8r]

You stated that you'll be adding a cover for the filter intake, here's what I do. I usually buy foam filter inserts that are for canister filters and cut them up to use in multiple tanks. They don't hinder the flow of water, and last a long time with minimal maintenance (monthly squeeze and quick rinse to clean it out.

Try looking for some natural sea sponges. They can be found in most art supply stores, and some large -Mart type stores. The sponge will grow moss and other microbes that the shrimp will love to feed on.

Another good way to get a healthy shrimp tank is to add dead leaf litter from hardwood trees. Oak and maple leaves work well and don't muck up pH levels as they decay. Make sure to soak the leaves, changing the water daily, until the leaves both sink and no longer affect the color of the water that they soak in. That's how you get rid of the possible harmful chemicals in the leaves.

 

[creoguy]

Thanks for all the suggestions! Did the overhaul on the tank this afternoon. Changed out the plain gravel for Black Flourite, added two Anubias Nana which replaced some of the Java Moss on one of the pieces of driftwood and lastly, planted a Red and Green Cryptocoryne Wendtii. I also made up a cover for the filter intake out of some foam. Going to transfer the seeded filter over tomorrow and hit the tank with the first dose of Ammonia to kick off the cycle.

Any other ideas for me?