First true planted tank

[octavusprime]

Im by no means an expert on the subject, but sounds like a good start to me.
As far as the substrate, im still not completely convinced that flourite or laterite either one are necessary for a planted tank so long as proper nutrients, proper lighting, and proper co2 are provided. I had amazing luck with simple gravel covered with sand til my chinese algae eaters distroyed most of my plants. But as i said, im no expert so i could be wrong.

Chinese algae eaters don't eat plants, unless they are starving and there isn't enough algae (algae wafers) for them. As they get older they eat less algae and should be supplemented with algae wafers.