help with CRS setup

[uberunce]

im looking to start a 10gallon CRS setup but dont know where to start. so far i have the substrate (pea sized) in, using a whisper 10 filter, 100w heater and regular incandescent lights (2 20w i think). heres some questions which would help.

1. what kind of plants should i keep in it? (in the basement no sunlight)
2. how heavily planted should it be?
3. should i change the strainer on the filter to something else?
4. is it possible to also use this tank as a convict growout for a month or so?
5. if yes, should i put caves and stuff in?
6. how often for water changes?

 

[Rhykiru]

I would keep some type of moss/riccia as a haven for the fry. Also, i would suggest getting flourescent bulbs since i think incandescent ones emit too much heat. For a strainer, you can always buy a sponge and wrap it around.

for other plants, try some fine leaved ones as more place for fry but also do thicker leaved ones for the adults so that they dont feel squished trying ot move around.

Many people do 30% weekly water changes because crs are prone to nitrate poisoning. I hear java moss is a good plant to absorb nitrates too ^^

 

[uberunce]

thanks for the reply.
i plan on getting around 4 CRS so how many plants should i start with?
from you reply looks like i should get a java moss for sure, and i was thinking something easy to keep like anubias.