20 Gallon Brackish Planted Setup Advice (Figure 8)
Posted: Thu Nov 17, 2011 11:13 pm
I've been doing some research on setting up a tank for a Figure 8. I would really like to have a planted tank with some driftwood, which I realize creates some unique problems. I was hoping to get some feedback on my current plan.
A little bit of history: I have successfully kept freshwater aquariums and nano reef aquariums. I know the specific requirements for keeping a Figure 8 puffer. I am looking for any particular advice for my setup or maintenance issues that you might see. As we all know, a well thought out and easy to maintain aquarium is much more enjoyable. I'm open to any and all suggestions!
Tank: 20 Gallon Long
Filtration: Hagen Aquaclear (10x turnover rate)
Lighting: Aqueon Coralife 2x18w T5-NO or Marineland Double Bright LED. I'm leaning towards the T5-NO. I think the T5's would be better for plants. However, I don't like the idea of buying two T5 bulbs every year.
Substrate: Either coarse aragonite sand (3mm range) or crushed coral. I've used fine sand in my reef tanks, and know how difficult it can be to vacuum and stir. Possibly a coarse sand would solve this problem, but I like the idea of how easy crushed coral is to clean. I'm really up in the air on this one.
Plants: I will be trying my hand at a few plants to see what takes off. Currently on my list is Java Moss, Java Fern, Anachris, Banana Plants, Anubias Nana, Giant Hair Grass, and Marimo. I realize some might flourish, and some might not work out well. This will be partly trial and error.
Decor: Multiple rocks to create nooks and caves. Here's the kicker: I would like driftwood in my aquarium. I like the idea of anchoring plants to the driftwood and creating places to explore. I was thinking 2 pieces of wood, each measuring 8"-10". I've read that the wood can release tannins, break down, or lower the pH of a brackish aquarium. I get a little confused because I'm sure that driftwood is a natural occurrence in this type habitat. Can anyone chime in with any experience on this?
I will be setting this tank up completely freshwater for cycling. After cycling, I will be adding plants, followed by the Figure 8 (it will arrive in freshwater from the fish store). After everyone is healthy and happy for a week or so, then I will begin raising the salinity to brackish conditions.
A little bit of history: I have successfully kept freshwater aquariums and nano reef aquariums. I know the specific requirements for keeping a Figure 8 puffer. I am looking for any particular advice for my setup or maintenance issues that you might see. As we all know, a well thought out and easy to maintain aquarium is much more enjoyable. I'm open to any and all suggestions!
Tank: 20 Gallon Long
Filtration: Hagen Aquaclear (10x turnover rate)
Lighting: Aqueon Coralife 2x18w T5-NO or Marineland Double Bright LED. I'm leaning towards the T5-NO. I think the T5's would be better for plants. However, I don't like the idea of buying two T5 bulbs every year.
Substrate: Either coarse aragonite sand (3mm range) or crushed coral. I've used fine sand in my reef tanks, and know how difficult it can be to vacuum and stir. Possibly a coarse sand would solve this problem, but I like the idea of how easy crushed coral is to clean. I'm really up in the air on this one.
Plants: I will be trying my hand at a few plants to see what takes off. Currently on my list is Java Moss, Java Fern, Anachris, Banana Plants, Anubias Nana, Giant Hair Grass, and Marimo. I realize some might flourish, and some might not work out well. This will be partly trial and error.
Decor: Multiple rocks to create nooks and caves. Here's the kicker: I would like driftwood in my aquarium. I like the idea of anchoring plants to the driftwood and creating places to explore. I was thinking 2 pieces of wood, each measuring 8"-10". I've read that the wood can release tannins, break down, or lower the pH of a brackish aquarium. I get a little confused because I'm sure that driftwood is a natural occurrence in this type habitat. Can anyone chime in with any experience on this?
I will be setting this tank up completely freshwater for cycling. After cycling, I will be adding plants, followed by the Figure 8 (it will arrive in freshwater from the fish store). After everyone is healthy and happy for a week or so, then I will begin raising the salinity to brackish conditions.