I've got a few questions about my new freshwater tank. I've done some searches and read quite a few posts, but want to make sure there isn't something I'm missing with my individual set-up. I haven't gotten any fish yet, just beginning with a tank and some decor. I haven't decided on any fish yet, but have read a lot of info on the issues involved, so I know I need to be careful and methodical about the whole thing. I want to make sure everything works together for fish health. I guess I'm kind of shooting for a light coral reef type look. I've got a 6 gallon Eclipse system, and purchased some decor on the internet.
I accidentally purchased natural coral sand pure marine substrate, it says it's 100% calcium carbonate, increased ph buffering, and minimal rinsing. Will I be able to use this gravel in a freshwater environment? Will it affect the pH balance? Can that be handled with any kind of normal water balance solutions? Should I be using a pH balancer regardless of the substrate? Are there any particular fish that might prefer any specific substrate or water conditions that the substarte will affect?
As for the rest of the decor I got, they include a fake cat's paw coral(really nice), a real tufa stone, and some pearlized plastic plants. They take up a little more space than I thought they would, so I was wondering about swimming space requirements. I realize that many species and sizes will require more or less than others, but is there any type of general guideline for how much of your gallon-acreage is taken up by decor features? Any algae or water balance issues inhernet with those features themselves? Any specific recommendations for fish that like to swim or sit amongst the features?
Any other requirements I'm missing as of yet?
Thanks for any suggestions.
I accidentally purchased natural coral sand pure marine substrate, it says it's 100% calcium carbonate, increased ph buffering, and minimal rinsing. Will I be able to use this gravel in a freshwater environment? Will it affect the pH balance? Can that be handled with any kind of normal water balance solutions? Should I be using a pH balancer regardless of the substrate? Are there any particular fish that might prefer any specific substrate or water conditions that the substarte will affect?
As for the rest of the decor I got, they include a fake cat's paw coral(really nice), a real tufa stone, and some pearlized plastic plants. They take up a little more space than I thought they would, so I was wondering about swimming space requirements. I realize that many species and sizes will require more or less than others, but is there any type of general guideline for how much of your gallon-acreage is taken up by decor features? Any algae or water balance issues inhernet with those features themselves? Any specific recommendations for fish that like to swim or sit amongst the features?
Any other requirements I'm missing as of yet?
Thanks for any suggestions.
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