[Joe_Shafe]

Hey guys I'm new to the forum and was wondering how to do my substrate for a new tank I plan on setting up. It will be a high tech 50 gallon breeder tank. I have a 10 gallon tank with flourite and a sand cap and its doing fine but I want to make sure this new one is as good as possible. I originally liked the idea of a dirted tank with organic potting soil clay and peat moss, but now I've read it may not be the best. So any tips would great.

Thanks,
-Joe

 

[Diana]

Each person has their own idea of what is best.
I would highly recommend you get a substrate with high cationic exchange capacity. Flourite is one. CEC means the substrate can hold fertilizers as a reserve and sort of even out the supply.
If you go on vacation, for example, there will be a reserve of fertilizer for the plants to draw on.

 

[steven p]

Dirt is smexy as a substrate, potting soils are good, but i advocate a long dry start first.

 

[Vincent Tran]

I use ADA Amazonia and Azoo Plant Grower bed. I love them! Good for plants and for shrimp.

 

[Joe_Shafe]

Just did some more research. I think I want to do a layering. Would a layer of flourite, followed by a thin layer of top soil, then a layer of fine gravel be good. Also would I need to add clay to it or would the flourite be enough.