Walstad Setup Aquarium.... Pros and Cons? Experience/ Opinions

[RisiganL.]

Wouldn't a 1" sand cap cause anaerobic bacteria to grow and make gas pockets?

 

[silentcircuit]

You need to stir it up a little occasionally, but it really shouldn't pose a problem. Plant roots and corys / other bottom dwellers help keep it lose.

 

[Optimus]

so one inch soil, one inch eco complete in my case?

I'd advocate against using eco complete or any of the shelf mineral coated soil to cap dirt. Regular and or the substrate currently have in your aquarium is fine.

Wouldn't a 1" sand cap cause anaerobic bacteria to grow and make gas pockets?

Anaerobic areas can occur in any substrate from dirt to large decorative/painted gravel. The difference here is that if dirted, the plants grow stronger/faster and penetrate any gas pockets.

 

[jetajockey]

1" of sand really isn't much at all anyway. If you pick a sand that has more uniform grains, like filter sand, rather than playsand, it helps remedy that issue as well.

If it's really a concern, just get some MTS and use plenty of heavy rooters like swords and crypts.