CO2 for planted tank..Do I Need?

[ddlbrooks]

Wondering if I really need the co2. I've read that I do and then I've also read that I don't. I've had a planted acquariam for couple years and plants do ok...no Great but ok. Wondering if adding the co2 would make the difference between ok and great..

 

[andyjh]

You've already answered your own question! No, you don't NEED it, but adding it will certainly open the door to much greater success with the plants. However, you've now opened up other maintenance issues, such as PH monitoring due the CO2, not overgassing your fish, and needing to do plant trimming more frequently due to the plants growing more quickly. I added pressurized CO2 and couldn't be happier.

 

[hollyfish2000]

I use pressurized CO2 in my planted tanks because I want more growth and less algae. It is a balance, though. You don't have to go overboard with the CO2. I have about 3 WPG in lighting, but actually stagger the two bulbs somewhat to effectively reduce that. I use Eco-complete substrate augmented with root tabs to make sure they have a good source of nutrients not in the water column. I do also dose lightly with the Seachem fertilizer line. I have about 2 bubbles per second of CO2 and while it does drop the pH somewhat, it's never been a problem. I just test my pH with each water change. I have to trim some plants, especially the fast growing wisteria and giant hygro, but that's about it. I encourage you to give it a try.

A half-way measure may be to start using Seachem's Excel, which provides a carbon source. This might be enough to get your plants a bit healthier . . .

 

[Star_Rider]

most planted Marine tanks consist of macro algae. there is no need for CO2 added to these tanks.

if you are asking about planted fresh water i would suggest you post in the planted tank section.
most often CO2 added in a marine tank is used for calcium reactors.

 

[ddlbrooks]

Co2..do I need for frewshwater planted tank

I've had a planted tank for about two years and the plants do ok. I have substrate in tank and fertilize but I'm sure not enough. I would like my plants to go from just ok to really nice...is the co2 necessary or could I by pass that and use fertilizers etc. to do the job. I have a 130 gal with approx 50 fish.
Thanks

 

[ddlbrooks]

thanks everyone..

 

[petluvr]

That depends a lot on your lighting, if your tank doesn't have high lighting then you could probably use flourish excel but be careful it will melt vals and a few others.

 

[Kashta]

Agree with petluvr... CO2 is real important for plants in a medium-high lighting range, but not needed at all for low-medium light plants.

 

[Sploke]

FYI merged your two threads into one.

 

[mes1234]

I did use a DIY co2 but I got algea when ever it was on. So I took it away and pressure systems are too expensive for me. So my plants look great without co2.