Need help planning tank for Rhombus.

[BushFishRox]

I have a black piranha that I am growing out in a 10 gal, he is about 5"s now. Next month when I get my tax return I am getting him a 50 gal (36x18x19) because that the biggest I have room for right now, I have a 220 as well, and when I am finished school in 3yrs I will be able to move into a bigger place.

I would like to do a planted tank, first one, and I was wondering what the best substrate would be? I would like to do a natural gravel, like river gravel instead of the colored gravel. What lighting should I use I have a spare 36" dual T-5 strip, currently with 10K tubes. As for the plants I would like a under water bush, or something that is pretty dense with driftwood.

 

[BushFishRox]

in terms of substrate I was wondering if I can use gravel or if I should stick with sand? I have sand my 220 and in the grow out tank.

 

[Clift]

What I like to do is lay down some black sand, followed by gravel on top. I find it gives a very natural look, plus the sand helps keep the roots planted. I only use 5 lbs for 30 pounds of regular gravel.

2 T5 lights should get your plants going in no time, although might you be able to specify the wattage?

Underwater bush, I'm not sure if it's what you're looking for but maybe some Java Moss? That stuff is amazing both for surface area for beneficial bacteria, but also grows very quickly and can be trimmed as you like. It's great for filling spots between rocks etc.

 

[BushFishRox]

I am a total newb when it comes to live plants, but since it is a solo fish tank I thought I would dress it up as best as possible, so I dont know any of the plant names.

 

[jp80911]

you have T5NO or T5HO? either way you'll get an idea what kind of light you'll get base on the distance between your light and bottom of the tank, what kind of light you'll be getting you can then decide on type of plants. if you want plants grow on wood you can go with moss, java fern, anubias. they can all do well in low light, if too much light from your fixture you might have algae issue. you can either add more plants suitable for your light or reduce the time your light stays on to help control algae. I'm very new with planted tank myself but there are many members with great experience in this area. you can post question in the planted tank section.
as for gravel or sand, I think it's a personal thing. which ever you like the look better go with that.

 

[AngryWretch]

I use a 50/50 mix of gravel and fluorite in my tanks with plants. It works great. About once a month I can give away an nice bundle of plants to make some extra space in my tank.

 

[jp80911]

I use a 50/50 mix of gravel and fluorite in my tanks with plants. It works great. About once a month I can give away an nice bundle of plants to make some extra space in my tank.

what plants are you giving out every month?

 

[BushFishRox]

thanks for the info so far guys.