In general, care should be taken not to expose it to the sun, regardless of the category above, when growing aquatic plants. Because of this, sunlight is one of the main causes of Algae formation. Also, it is more appropriate to provide the light and CO2 supply for the tank with aquatic plants for no more than 6-8 hours. If that time increases, it also causes the formation of Algae. And once the tank is in season (usually after 2-3 months), it is imperative to change 40%-50% of the water once a week. Change the water 50% 60% day after day withing the first week. Then change twice a week from the until the first month complete. If it is not so algae may grow. And you can filter your tank more than 3 times per hour (use a filter with x3 or more L/h of tank capacity). Or your tank water may become discolored and dusty. Hang on Back Filter and Canister Filter are suitable for tanks with aquatic plants and it is easy to increase the water quality by applying Filter Media (Ceramic Ring, Filter Padding) in them. Chlorine water and pesticides can be harmful to aquatic plants. So be careful not to put such material in your tank.
The temperature and pH value of the water in your tank are also factors for the growth and health of aquatic plants and take care to maintain them in a regular value. Generally try to keep the tank temperature between 25-28. If the temperature is high, use Cooling Fan and control it. Maintain pH between 6.5 – 7.8. Aquatic plants, corals and roots (driftwood) naturally lower the pH value of the water in the tank and some natural stones (used in Planted Tank design) also change the pH value.
Usually, during the weekly water change in the tank, clean the glass, stones and driftwood in the Planted tank. Magnetic Cleaner, Algae Scarper and Algae Brush can be used for this. In addition, remove the decayed leaves of the plants. This can control the formation of Algae in the tank. When removing the water from the tank, you can easily remove the fish excrement, decayed plant parts, and the remaining fish foods by touching the soil layer with the help of a Gravel Cleaner (Siphon). Weekly water changes are done to remove this waste from the tank. It can control the ammonia that can occur in the tank. This ammonia is mainly responsible for fish diseases and Algae. Therefore, a Gravel Cleaner is an essential tool for a Planted Tank.
Usually start giving CO2 two hours before your tank light turns ON. Stop it two hours before Light OFF. Also, set your filter, CO2 bubbles emitted by the diffuser mix with the water flow as much as possible. It can prevent wastage of CO2. Use a CO2 monitor to check if your tank has enough CO2 for the plants. A CO2 monitor usually takes over an hour to change color and does not change color overnight. Generally, light green color of CO2 monitor is more suitable for plants and if it turns yellow, it can be harmful for fish. CO2 Monitor eka is usually not installed near the Diffuser. Then a more accurate result cannot be obtained.
Generally, an oil layer occurs on the water surface of planted tanks. It is caused by organic waste emitted by plants, CO2 supplied to the tank from outside and particulate matter in the atmosphere. When it occurs, the tank does not get enough light and the O2 needed by the fish to mix with the water also decreases. A Surface Skimmer can be used to eliminate this.
All images featured in this web blog are sourced from the internet.
Leave a reply