tank setup equipment

mantashrimpman

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Dec 2, 2003
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i will be getting a 60 gal aquarium very soon. it is a shallow tank.
my equipment list so far is

jali 55Wx4
80 lbs of flourite
and a high preassured co2 system


am i missing anything, any over looked equipment??? any input would be great thanks for your time!!!

mike
 
fertilizers

You will need fertilizers within a short time after set up.
 
You may want a good canister filter, not a HangOnBack. I like and use Rena xP-3's.. Get a floating algae magnet to keep the sides of the tank clean. An air powered gravel vacuum is real nice and inexpensive. A Rena air pump, air line and an air stone is a good idea. Use the air stone only in certain situations....
A good thermometer is needed.

A good test kit to get is Aquarium Pharmeceuticals Master Kit.
 
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Planted tank, right?

For a planted tank, skip the air pump and stone and vacuum. And maybe the algae magnet, too.

Did we talk about test kits? KH and pH tests are essential. For the beginning you will need ammonia and nitrite kits, then nitrate and potassium. Iron is pretty useless, from my reading.

A journal to record test info and dosing and such.

Stuff specific to planted tanks... planting tweezers, spatula to smooth gravel, good scissors, I use vinegar to clean the glass of spots that otherwise interfere with the light. Small net to clean up after trimming.

Water changing stuff...Python or a DIY imitation. I use a pair of suction cups with clips to set the intake at the 50% line and then I can walk away. It will draw air and stop at the 50% mark. (Assuming you will be following the Estimative Index and dosing lots of fertilizers then doing large water changes)

If your lights are in two banks with separate switches that would be best, for you have a lot of light there, you may want to turn one bank off early. I have 4 x 55 on 59 gallons and it is a bit much, I have one bank on for 6 hrs and the other for 12 hrs so I can see it later at night.
 
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I wouldn't want to be without one of these. although the Python works good too. This "air vacuum" is great for in between water changes.
 
Re: Planted tank, right?

Originally posted by anonapersona

Did we talk about test kits? KH and pH tests are essential. For the beginning you will need ammonia and nitrite kits, then nitrate and potassium. Iron is pretty useless, from my reading.

Potassium test kit? Do you have a specific one in mind?

I would add a phosphate kit to the list, you'll get it eventually anyway.
 
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