I recently set up a new tank (Superfish Start 30) with 1cm layer of Tropica substrate under 2cm of gravel. It is planted and has an internal filter running. The only livestock are a few ramshorn snails.
The ammonia levels have remained high since the start - more than 2ppm - for 3 weeks now despite several large water changes and adding several doses of Bacto Start. I can only assume the substrate is responsible. Is this normal and what can I do to reduce the ammonia so I can add more livestock?
I used Tropica Aquasoil (as opposed to substrate) in my other tank and had no problem at all. The aquasoil is more like little black pellets, the substrate is more like regular soil - brown and dusty.
I asked Tropica and they just said their substrate does not cause ammonia!
Look forward to your thoughts/experiences with these products and ammonia levels.
The ammonia levels have remained high since the start - more than 2ppm - for 3 weeks now despite several large water changes and adding several doses of Bacto Start. I can only assume the substrate is responsible. Is this normal and what can I do to reduce the ammonia so I can add more livestock?
I used Tropica Aquasoil (as opposed to substrate) in my other tank and had no problem at all. The aquasoil is more like little black pellets, the substrate is more like regular soil - brown and dusty.
I asked Tropica and they just said their substrate does not cause ammonia!
Look forward to your thoughts/experiences with these products and ammonia levels.