Flourite w/ java ferns

[thedudeabides]

Quick question, setting up a nano tank with java ferns, mosses and anubias all attached to rocks and driftwood. I have 2 options for substrate, I have left over flourite and eco complete gravel from another tank. My question is should I bother with the flourite or will it just lead to algae blooms.

[Darkblade48]

I don't see why adding Flourite would lead to an algal bloom?

You can use either substrate; whatever you think looks nicer.

[thedudeabides]

Well would it benefit the plants at all if they arn't planted into the substrate? Will they assimilate the nutrients released into the water columb faster than algae would? My concern is that with all the plants being slow growing and not being planted in the substrate that it will cause an influx of nutrients in the water that might give algae a foothold.

[thedudeabides]

I wanted to use the flourite just because its darker in color which I thought would make the CPO's pop a little more.

[Bubba Shrimp]

yes Flourite Dark does make plants pop.

[crazydaz]

Assuming that you keep your lighting "low" or "reasonable," you don't over feed or over fertilize, you shouldn't have any terrible algae issues, regardless of whichever substrate you choose. You will always have some, but most will be in the form of brush algae and GSA versus your nasty hair algae and cladophora.