Starting a 40G planted

[Pigeonblood]

Here is some background information:
I've done low-tec /med-tec planted tanks in the past. Its basically been Java Moss, Java Fern, Anubias, Melon Sword, Amazon Sword, etc. The plants have been added to assist in the natural look of my discus tanks and aid in the production of oxygen, etc. They have turned out fairly well and have been great fun, but I am looking to do a very nice 40g planted tank.


Current Situation:
I am moving into a house when school starts up in the fall and I want to take a pair of breeding discus with me. Obviously the tank will be set up and established before they are brought on the long journey, but I am wondering what are some key features to a successful/thriving planted tank. I understand the importance of lighting,ferts,substrate,CO2,etc. But I am just looking for some tips "from the pros".

Some questions:
What plants would be the best for a 40g?
What is the key to having successful ground cover plants?ie baby tears,etc.
What is a good filtration setup for a 40g planted?
How much lighting do I need?
How deep should the substrate be?

I was also thinking of buying a few bags of eco-complete and filling the bottom of the tank. Then I was going to add an inch or two of medium grain sand. Any thoughts on this?

 

[Crashkt90]

1. Any should do.
2. Co2/light and what you get spread it out.
3. Depend on how many fish your going to put in, and what they are, if you stick to a small school of tetras and shrimp. A simple canister filter will do.
4. 2 watts per gallon so 2 dual t5 will be good.
5. Since your thinking about eco-complete im using it as well, 3 inches or a bit more.

I wouldnt use sand while planting a tank. It could get on the plants and stuff.

 

[Pigeonblood]

Interesting, I currently just dumped some eco-complete in the bottom of the tank and its a sizable mound of it;but i did it so that
I could plant the few plants I pulled from my 125 into it. I need to get paid and then I can really start to get some cool stuff for this tank, Ill keep yall posted

 

[Crashkt90]

Just make sure you have enough to hold everythign down

 

[ATFtiger]

Good luck!

 

[Pigeonblood]

So I decided to get some sand to help fill in a little bit of the bottom! I may be able to do it tonight I am just so swamped with everything at the moment..working 40+hrs a week and school and a girlfriend and I just got a kiteboard and trying to get classes is crazy!!!!!!!!! Ill try to post some pictures tonight.