Need some help from the plant experts.

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matthew112687

Feeder Fish
MFK Member
May 7, 2006
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Florida
I am planning to turn my 20 gallon into a planted tank, and I have been trying to learn as much as possible about CO2 injection. I like the price tag on this system compared to others. And I already have a CO2 bottle that I dont use anymore.
Semi-Automatic
www.drsfostersmith.com/Product/Prod_Display.cfm?pcatid=9935&N=2004+113779

It claims that I only "need monitor CO2 levels and add buffers when necessary." I take it as this just means to check pH and make sure it doesnt drop to dangerous levels?

Or do you think it would be better to just bite the bullet and buy the fully auto matic one?

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/Product/Prod_Display.cfm?pcatid=9933&N=2004+113779

Any help I can get is greatly appreciated.
 
For a 20 gallon that seems a little excessive, but if you want to you can. First recommendation, don't get any equipment from Drs F+S. Semi Auto system problems: 1) bubble counter is worth less than 20 cents, but they charge 26.99. 2) check valve is not needed in a good co2 regulator setup. 3) air line tubing is silicone which looses co2 at a rate of up to 30%. 4) the timer costs $4 at walmart.
Fully Automatic problems:
Same as semi automatic, plus they use a lot of vinyl tubing which cannot sustain co2 for long. Co2 will erode vinyl tubing.

I would recommend either a milwaukee, or if you have the money a JBJ regulator combo, a rhinox diffusor, and a milwaukee sms122 pH controller. Then you will have fully automatic. A reactor will also work very well, but glass diffusors are more sensable for a tank that size.
 
Thanks for the fast response. I am a complete noob when it comes to planted aquaria but I am trying to learn everyday.

Milwaukee is sold on this site, I couldnt find any others. http://www.azgardens.com/newCO22.php

So if I understand correctly I could get the Milwaukee CO2 Combo Pack from azgardens (which includes Milwaukee MA957 regulator & the Milwaukee SMS 122 pH/CO2 controller.)

And a Rhinox Bubble Counter, such as this one.. http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=250089217084

Then I should be good to go because I have my CO2 tank, I just need to get it refilled. Other than that do I have it covered?

Also..

I was planning on using a whisper power filter, but I have read that you dont want any surface aggitation except at night when the CO2 is off. Do you think that a powerfilter would defeat the purpose of having CO2 because of the surface aggitation? Do you have any suggestions for filtration on an aquarium this small?

Thanks for being so patient with me.
 
You just saved me $50+, haha thanks.

Is the diffuser I listed the right one that will go with my system? If it is Im going to grab that also. Right now I am running a hydor sponge in that tank so all I need is a powerhead!
 
well, i would like to say planted tanks RULE! i applaud your desire to "create" your own!
that said, you have quite a bit of money invested already in getting a co2 set-up going..... great....
am guessin ya want results RIGHT NOW...?! there is a simple, less costly way to what you are desiring but requires a bit more patience....
in the end, ifn ya want a lush planted tank i cant fault ya for that...! i hope everything goes well for you!
 
seighten;727815;727815 said:
well, i would like to say planted tanks RULE! i applaud your desire to "create" your own!
that said, you have quite a bit of money invested already in getting a co2 set-up going..... great....
am guessin ya want results RIGHT NOW...?! there is a simple, less costly way to what you are desiring but requires a bit more patience....
in the end, ifn ya want a lush planted tank i cant fault ya for that...! i hope everything goes well for you!
Click to expand...
Once again I will state...
For certain planted tanks, co2 is necessary, due to the balance of nutrient uptake, as well as some plants need elevated levels of CO2, and carbon will not cut it. Not all plants need co2, many do not, but some do.

Opinion is one thing, but fact if fact.
 
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