Hmmm, thanks guys... from what I've read about laying down the substrate, it seems as though I'll have to empty my tank to do it? No reaching in and dropping it down like I did w/ the new gravel... am I reading the threads wrong (entirely possible, I'm SO tired today, lol).
If you currently have a mature, healthy substrate that is not too deep(1 -3") you could add a layer of Flourite right over top of it.
I have done this with good success in the past, but I like a deeper substrate than most people use.
The suggestion above regarding a dusting of peat is geared more toward a new set up and not necessary if your substrate is healthy.
The old and new 'layers' will eventually mix together, so you have to envision what you are currently using, mixed with the light coffee color of Flourite and make a decision based on your taste.
To do this, rinse the Flourite; siphon off and bucket as much tank water as possible with fish in the buckets(or another tank); lay in the Flourite and refill slowly to approx. 2/3 full and top it off with a tap water change.
could anyone who has used that profile aquatic soil tell me a little more about it? it seems like a good compromise between expensive substrates and the cheaper plain sand (student budget alert). what is it's consistancy, more sandlike or more gravel-like? is it light or dark in color? does it include nutrients or would plants still benefit from substrate tabs?
It is a bit lighter(in color), and more uniform in individual pebbles(for lack of a better term). It does darken up some as it ages, and looks better, IMO.
It is quite a bit lighter(in weight) which makes planting certain plants a bit more of a challenge, as they tend to float out of it easier than Flourite.
Also, when gravel siphoning, it's lighter weight requires more care, so as not to suck it up with the mulm.
It's a clay based substrate, very similar to Flourite, but with similar CEC and is more porous. The porosity is what causes it to be lighter.
Over all, for a person on a budget, I would recommend it if you are willing to live with these small drawbacks.
I bought a 40lb. bag for about $15, and it comes in smaller bags.
...... ....many particles that will eventually sift down into the bottom of the substrate where it can provide it's nutrients. The stuff is expensive and I hate to waste any that I don't have to.
Exactly..
It's best not to be too thorough when rinsing Flourite or Onyx Sand. Keep some of the fine 'particles' - it will settle just fine within a few hours.
