Setup?

[Benfica]

Hey, I'm just trying to get back into fish keeping after I took down my last fish tank due to renovations. Now that everything is done i want to set it up again, but want to go down a different path preferably a basic plant tank.
I have a 38 gallon tank, with a marineland emperor 280 filter.

I'm just wondering what substrate would be best for the tank?
Should i get a new filter or what media filter should i use?
I heard that you do not need intense lighting if you do not have a co2 system, so would i need to upgrade to a better light. Not sure the kind of light i have atm, it is just a standard one that came with the hood.

Thanks again!

 

[TankDempsey]

As for substrates. Its just a matter of opinion. Imo sand is easier to clean but I have both. My favorite hob filter is the aquaclear 70. Woulg be awesome for that tank

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[everlastace]

Many plants won't grow to their full potential in sand, small gravel is best for them. As for light, I don't have a super strong one do I put my tank where sunlight from a window hits it, my plants thrive with no co2.

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[TankDempsey]

just thought of that lol, if you really want to keep a lot of good plants you can do dirt substrate, i don't but i know of some members here who do and have really cool plants

 

[ecoli73]

How basic do you want your tank?

If you go with Java fern(which came come attached to a rock), annubies which you can attach to drift wood, add a couple of moth balls,
tie some moss to a screen or rocks, and add some floating plants, your choice of substrats wouldn't matter...

 

[TankDempsey]

moth balls? arent those poisonous? i'm confused i think you meant moss lol

 

[ecoli73]

Moss balls


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[Benfica]

Thank you for suggestions. I've seen a lot of people recommending the aquaclear 70. Do you think i just get one aswell or keep the emperor 280?
As for plants pretty much the ones you listed java fern, moss, annubies. Also im planning on getting a good size driftwood for tank aswell.

 

[TankDempsey]

I run both the 280 and the AC 70 on my 55 and the 70 is by far the superior filter, if your tank only has space for one filter i would for sure run the 70, but if you can run both do it!. the 280 could more than likely do the job depending on what you plan to keep in the tank. What is your stock going to be?

 

[Benfica]

The hood only has a cutout for one filter, but i could cut out another piece for the ac70 as well. Stock really thinking to much about atm because to cycle etc. Altough lots of neon/cardinals, and other tetras that will give a nice bright look. Going to go to the fish store to see if they have any 3d background. Or do you think i should paint the black of the tank blue/black?
Any suggestions for stock? Thanks