CO2 really needed?

It may be more useful to give all your specs here in this thread, or to simply pose the question in your other thread. Most people don't want to read around following links just to give a simple answer.

I did read the other post, and it seems you are already using DIY CO2. This should be sufficient until you get a pressurized system. Dosing excel in a 46 gallon tank would be costly if done for any length of time.

Once you upgrade your lights, you'll have ~ 4.2 WPG, which is pretty high. I'd definitely recommend pressurized then, DIY just won't cut it.

greatfish123 said:

I am currently upgrading my tank. But the costs of the lights etc are getting pretty high. so i was wondering if i can use excel for a while before i go to pressurized CO2

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If you are going the excel route for now you should leave your lighting as is IMO, as it seems right now you are fairly successful at keeping algae away...good! I wouldn't push it! While DIY is possible on your 46 gallon with the correct diffusion method you will have to be diciplined with your routines to maintain Co2 at correct levels or else you will have great success not growing plants but all kinds of algae...no joke.

I can also run 2 two liter DIY bottles and diffuse it through a aquaclear powerhead. I am really hesitant abt spending abt $150 for the pressurized co2 at the moment.

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I would actually recommend you get your pressurized co2 setup before you get your fancy lights as this will save you lots of algae problems and a better approach IMO towards a higher light setup.

Might I also suggest you read the _Dosing Regime_ sticky under the Water Parameters title and familiarize youself with the ferts needed, routine's to follow and where to get the necessary ferts.

If success is what you want with your tank the above is the going to get you thier with the least headaches.

Good luck!

If money, time, "hassle" are issues I would HIGHLY suggest going low tech.

Low tech is somewhat misleading. There are some beautiful low light tanks on this forum. No dosing (using relatively high fishload to provide plants with some nutrition), no CO2, and inexpensive lighting. You are limited in plant selection but there plenty of less demanding plants to choose from.

You can dig around for some really nice low tech tanks and see for yourself.

Pros: Cost much less, less trimming, no/very little dosing

Cons: just can't grow demanding plants..bout it. Other then not getting to play with the high tech toys.

Edit: I just read some of your linked thread. Like other people have said I'm to occupied to read it all.

thanks for all your replies!. I will look into all the links posted as well. if i were to go the pressurized way right away, what would be the cost of the cylinder itself be? I know that the regulator and solenoid itself costs around $80.

greatfish123 said:

thanks for all your replies!. I will look into all the links posted as well. if i were to go the pressurized way right away, what would be the cost of the cylinder itself be? I know that the regulator and solenoid itself costs around $80.

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The cost of cylinders varies. Make some calls to local welding/fire extinguisher/beverage shops to get some prices. Or do a search. There are numerous online sources. BTW, I got a 15lb cylinder for $45, but I believe this is on the lower end of the pricing scale

thanks for the rough estimate. from what i have read, it seems that rex offers the best regulators, albeit a bit pricey. i see some similar ones at ebay for a lesser price - http://cgi.ebay.com/Professional-De...ryZ20754QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
wat makes rex's so special?

Quality.......!

lol thanks! I guess rex's doesnt leak or give false readings and such.

mrkookm said:

Quality.......!

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Absolutely...