Eheim Aquastyle 9 - just getting started
 

This tank will stay low tech, I have no desire to ever do CO2 but I sure do love the effects of it. I'll be running this tank as is, just how it came out of the box. I just filled the tank with a bottom layer of organic miracle grow soil and will probably let that sit over night. Plan to cap it with eco complete tomorrow. Attachment 61713

I have two other small planted shrimp tanks where I'll be stealing livestock from, a 3g jar and a .75g vase.
Attachment 61721

The plants going in are:
Java moss
Crypts
Wisteria
Water sprite
Dwarf sag


I'd love to throw a splash of red in there, any suggestions for red low light plants?

With my other two tanks I planted after I capped the soil. Am I doing it wrong? Should I be planting before I cap? Thanks everyone! I'll be sure to keep progress pictures updated.

Attachment 62481

Threw in some micro sword I had as a floater, only because it wouldn't stay put! Hopefully it takes off now that I have it planted firmly. Now it's time to sit and watch it grow!

What a nice start :) I have the same tank, I love them.

Thank you :-D

Did you keep yours stock? Any suggestions for plant livestock? Don't you just love the shimmer the LED light gives off!?

Yeah, I kept it stock and unless I have light issues (which I don't foresee) I won't be changing anything. I love the lights, they really make the colors pop on my endlers.

Nice start! I also like your shrimp tanks a lot!

Thank you Skindy. My other two shrimp tanks or "bowls" took me a long time to finally keep rcs alive and well. A lot of trial and error!

The dwarf sag I transplanted looks droopy and unhealthy. Is this a normal occurrence until the plant acclimates to the new environment?

Have you considered adding more hardscape? That little amount is going to get covered and hidden very very quickly!

Yes I have! I'm at a loss on that one lol Any suggestions? It's pretty empty and boring right now.

I've considered some guppies until the tank is overgrown and ready for shrimp.

1-18-13
Attachment 69209

I added three neon tetras and some red Ludwig that came to me looking like complete crap, hopefully it pulls through! There's also another piece of driftwood. I think I'll add a red lily bulb, I enjoy the look of the large, spotted red leaves they put off.

looking really good

Have you considered moving your hardscape so it starts in one corner or have it "bouquet" out of the center?? An example

http://www.amanotakashi.net/portfoli...images/019.jpg

I like the idea, ill give it a try. How would I keep my pieces of driftwood in place without falling over?