Wanting to maybe start

Discussion in 'The Planted Tank' started by cody3819, Dec 24, 2015.

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  1. cody3819

    cody3819 Bubble Tip Anemone

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    Sep 23, 2015
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    I'm thinking of starting a Pico Planted tank, like 2.5 gallons. Right now u have a beta fish in there in my little man's room. But the only problem is I know nothing about planted tanks. I have a 29G saltwater reef tank so I'm somewhat familiar with fish tanks, just not so much freshwater. Please fill me in on maybe how to start this, what's the cycle like, how many watts per gallon do I need for my lighting ext. Thanks.
     
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  3. DSC reef

    DSC reef Giant Squid

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    I cant help you here buddy. What I can say is that keeping multiple tanks is tough and as long as you have the time then give it a go. Plan accordingly for how your gonna do maintenance, cost, ect... I had 4 tanks going the last 2 years. A 125, 75, 55 and 14 hallon, all salt. At first it was great, then it became a chore and then a hassle. Just the water changes alone emptied my pockets and you wouldn't believe the amount of fish food you go through with large fish like a sohal tang. My point is don't get overwhelmed and burn yourself out. A reef tank is never finished so keep that in mind. Other than that, post pics if you get it up and running!
     
  4. cody3819

    cody3819 Bubble Tip Anemone

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    But you still helping, thanks for that bit of info. A good point, never thought about it turning into a chore, and you are 100% correct about a reef tank. Always something to be done and never fishinsed. But I love them!
     
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  5. Vinnyboombatz

    Vinnyboombatz Giant Squid

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    You will want a low light system and plants so you won't have to add co2. I will alert member 2 in10 as he is a fw plant expert he will guide you.☺
     
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  6. 2in10

    2in10 Super Moderator

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    Vinny is spot on with the low light system. 2.5 gallons is a neat but also difficult size. A good plant would be Java Fern to start and maybe aquatic mosses. You could get away with 1 watt per gallon of LED lighting. 6500 kelvin rating to 10000 Kelvin are the best for freshwater plants. Keeping the light on for 8 hours a day should be plenty. You will want to consider dosing macronutrient fertilizers to keep the plants healthy. I would look to joining an aquatic plant forum as they will be up on the most recent developments.

    Also feel free to look through my tank threads in my signature to see what there is to do.
     
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  7. cody3819

    cody3819 Bubble Tip Anemone

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    Thanks, great info. I WI have to start doing some reading. It may not be this week I get it up and running. But I will have one up and running in the not to far future.
     
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