using laterite

[DarrylR]

I have a 5.5 gallon tank with a mix of flourite and eco-complete. I will be adding laterite, and it says 1 oz for every gallon. How can you measure an oz? And what happens if you use to much? Or should I just eyeball it and do a thin layer?

It also says to use it on the bottom, but seeing I have the substrate already in the tank, can I just put it on top than stir it so it lands on the bottom?

 

[Squawkbert]

With what you have already, it's probably not worth it to add laterite.
FWIW, it should go at/near the bottom.

 

[soobie]

In my experience, if it's not under the gravel/sand, it makes a horrible red cloud in the water column. I put mine in when I set up the tank, about a 1/4" (or less) layer over the whole bottom, then covered it with an inch or so of gravel. Even with rinsing beforehand, and the gravel on top, it still made the water reddish for the first day after I added water and planted the tank. The plants seem to love it, though. My crypt and swords settled in great, and the crypt didn't even melt.

 

[irishspy]

You want it to go in the lower half or third. I just set up a tank with laterite in the substrate, and I can vouch for how dusty it is, even with repeated rinsing. However, with the substrate you're using, I don't think you really need it. Might as well save yourself the money. :idea:

 

[Mgamer20o0]

i would only add it if you pull everything out and layer it. i dont think you need too add it though.