Hey guys. So I never really gave this much thought before, but after expanding my knowledge of the planted tank and really enjoying it (co2 is awesome!), I am wondering if I should replace my substrate.
I've had the same substrate for years now from back when I used to keep a few large fancy goldfish. It's a fairly chunky gravel and does look nice, it's not to compact either so roots are generally ok. The negative is that it shows dirt very quickly, plus I gather I really should have some kind of proper substrate for the plants.
They do currently seem to be growing well though, so I am not sure if it is even worth the effort and cycling. I don't really have a holding tank for all my fish and shrimp either, so would mean having them in a bucket until the tank heats up again after a total water change (could take a long time).
Has anyone gone through this process before and can share some advice? Thanks!
I've had the same substrate for years now from back when I used to keep a few large fancy goldfish. It's a fairly chunky gravel and does look nice, it's not to compact either so roots are generally ok. The negative is that it shows dirt very quickly, plus I gather I really should have some kind of proper substrate for the plants.
They do currently seem to be growing well though, so I am not sure if it is even worth the effort and cycling. I don't really have a holding tank for all my fish and shrimp either, so would mean having them in a bucket until the tank heats up again after a total water change (could take a long time).
Has anyone gone through this process before and can share some advice? Thanks!