Hello everyone!
I have decided to upgrade my current set up to a 20 gallon long (length = 30 inches, width = 20 inches, depth = 12 inches). I've decided to go with this size because I think I have most of the things I need already, but I am not certain that they will work.
However, I should note that I do not mind buying new stuff, if my items are not sufficient.
I wanted some input on the things I have thought about for this aquarium and the advice on this forum, thus far, has been fantastic.
My goal: Monte Carlo carpet capability with some easy/medium plants —> potentially moving to harder plants once I get the handle.
Here we go:
Filtration: API Filstar XP-M Canister filter
I already have this which is why I am thinking of using it:
Specifications: Flow-rate: 300 U.S. GAL/h (1150 L/h) Aquarium volume: up to 75 U.S. GAL (280L) Canister volume (1.6 U.S. GAL (6.3L) Waterflow with filtration media and accessories: 160 U.S. GAL/h (605L/h) Number of filter baskets: 2 Power: 23W
Will this be enough flow for a co2-injected aquarium? I attached it to my 10 gallon and made a typhoon, so I am thinking the larger length and body of water will help make the flow perfect.
Question: Are the stainless steel tubes/glass lily pipes imperative OR will the flow be ok with the following intake/output tubes
Co2 injection + tank: I have already and it is functioning.
Question: again, should I switch to the stainless steel diffuser/tubing or is my current tubing + glass diffuser from China sufficient.
Skimmer: Eheim 350
Heater: I have 2 options; I either go with the in-line hydor and purchase it OR use my in-tank heaters by the intake. Any preferences?
Substrate: I need help here, but I’m thinking Tropica powder soil. I am perusing the substrate threads as well.
Light: I am restricted slightly because I am from Canada, but here is my line of thinking:
Finnex below (would have to find a way to import it).
Which one from the above would suit my aquarium, given https://barrreport.com/threads/ada-lighting-at-aqua-forest-and-nice-low-par-values-who-knew.4865/
I think the only one I can get here is the Planted + 24/7, but it is way overpriced because the rest have been removed I think for some regulation.
Current USA:
I know I could get any of these lights, but I am not as familiar with their brand; it seems that maybe the LED Plus would work with a 2inch substrate I will only need to penetrate down to about 10 inches -- any thoughts? I would prefer to buy a light that is stronger and with a dimmer though.
here is another brand:
The BeamsWork I can get easily.
Some Chinese version -- or if anyone knows a Canadian supplier for the ADA or Twinstar lights.
I hope I didn't miss anything and I appreciate all input!
Cheers,
Josh
I have decided to upgrade my current set up to a 20 gallon long (length = 30 inches, width = 20 inches, depth = 12 inches). I've decided to go with this size because I think I have most of the things I need already, but I am not certain that they will work.
However, I should note that I do not mind buying new stuff, if my items are not sufficient.
I wanted some input on the things I have thought about for this aquarium and the advice on this forum, thus far, has been fantastic.
My goal: Monte Carlo carpet capability with some easy/medium plants —> potentially moving to harder plants once I get the handle.
Here we go:
Filtration: API Filstar XP-M Canister filter
I already have this which is why I am thinking of using it:
Specifications: Flow-rate: 300 U.S. GAL/h (1150 L/h) Aquarium volume: up to 75 U.S. GAL (280L) Canister volume (1.6 U.S. GAL (6.3L) Waterflow with filtration media and accessories: 160 U.S. GAL/h (605L/h) Number of filter baskets: 2 Power: 23W
Will this be enough flow for a co2-injected aquarium? I attached it to my 10 gallon and made a typhoon, so I am thinking the larger length and body of water will help make the flow perfect.
Question: Are the stainless steel tubes/glass lily pipes imperative OR will the flow be ok with the following intake/output tubes
Co2 injection + tank: I have already and it is functioning.
Question: again, should I switch to the stainless steel diffuser/tubing or is my current tubing + glass diffuser from China sufficient.
Skimmer: Eheim 350
Heater: I have 2 options; I either go with the in-line hydor and purchase it OR use my in-tank heaters by the intake. Any preferences?
Substrate: I need help here, but I’m thinking Tropica powder soil. I am perusing the substrate threads as well.
Light: I am restricted slightly because I am from Canada, but here is my line of thinking:
Finnex below (would have to find a way to import it).
Which one from the above would suit my aquarium, given https://barrreport.com/threads/ada-lighting-at-aqua-forest-and-nice-low-par-values-who-knew.4865/
I think the only one I can get here is the Planted + 24/7, but it is way overpriced because the rest have been removed I think for some regulation.
Current USA:
I know I could get any of these lights, but I am not as familiar with their brand; it seems that maybe the LED Plus would work with a 2inch substrate I will only need to penetrate down to about 10 inches -- any thoughts? I would prefer to buy a light that is stronger and with a dimmer though.
here is another brand:
The BeamsWork I can get easily.
Some Chinese version -- or if anyone knows a Canadian supplier for the ADA or Twinstar lights.
I hope I didn't miss anything and I appreciate all input!
Cheers,
Josh
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