pastamaster_29
New Member
Hi to all,
I am running my second aquascape now and still need to figure out and optimize certain aspects of my technique. One rather complex matter that I still haven't understood fully is fertilizing and the different approaches (EI, lean, ADA, etc.). I often read about certain ratios that are considered "optimal" or "standard" for a planted aquarium. One of those parameters is nitrate NO3 which is recommended to be kept at around 10-25 ppm. While I do unterstand the significance of nitrate for plant growth, how come that ADA (as far as I can tell) with its fertilizing system relies on way lower nitrate levels? It seems like the focus is on a considerably higher amount of potassium while providing phosphate primarily through soil and fish/food waste.
Am I missing or misinterpreting something here? Is the often recommended amount of 10-25ppm NO3 "overvalued" and can a tank maybe run more stable with lower nitrate and higher potassium levels? Let's assume a well-filtered, strongly planted aquascape with rather intense lighting and rich CO2 injection around 30ppm.
Adive and opinions would be highly appreciated.
Thanks in advance!
Greetings,
Robert
I am running my second aquascape now and still need to figure out and optimize certain aspects of my technique. One rather complex matter that I still haven't understood fully is fertilizing and the different approaches (EI, lean, ADA, etc.). I often read about certain ratios that are considered "optimal" or "standard" for a planted aquarium. One of those parameters is nitrate NO3 which is recommended to be kept at around 10-25 ppm. While I do unterstand the significance of nitrate for plant growth, how come that ADA (as far as I can tell) with its fertilizing system relies on way lower nitrate levels? It seems like the focus is on a considerably higher amount of potassium while providing phosphate primarily through soil and fish/food waste.
Am I missing or misinterpreting something here? Is the often recommended amount of 10-25ppm NO3 "overvalued" and can a tank maybe run more stable with lower nitrate and higher potassium levels? Let's assume a well-filtered, strongly planted aquascape with rather intense lighting and rich CO2 injection around 30ppm.
Adive and opinions would be highly appreciated.
Thanks in advance!
Greetings,
Robert