Basic

I use small sand mixed with a laterite and I have had great success! I saved money this way and was able to put the savings into other things. I would recommend pressurized co2 right off the start. I did the yeast and quickly changed. Aquarium plants. Com is good place but I would recommend local places like dallas north or fish gallery for plants. The best advice I could give you is to take it slow and ask a lot of questions. Some times there is more than one right answer and never a wrong question. Also be on the lookout for anything that could help you and save money. For example, I went to a medical supply store and got syringes and IV drip hoses that I use to dose fertilizers and acclimate fish but while I was their, I found a 18" pair of tongs. At hobby town USA I found a pair of small spring shears to use on trimming my plants. Always be on the lookout for anything. I hope this helps and ask questions.

jumboag99

Here's where I sit right now. Hopefully the tank stand will ship to my lfs his week so I can start putting things together.

Planted Tank Gear still needed:
CO2 setup
Aquarium backing, probably black plastic type I used on reef, maybe blue or white. Forget what it's called but essentially it's about 3/4cm thick and holds up forever.
Driftwood
Rock
Filter media (definitely need help on this one too)

Gear bought:
Thermometer
75G tank
stand
heater 200w
Pinpoint pH probe
Powerhead (koralia evolution 750)
Fluval 406
Lighting - Catalina 3x54 2x 65k, 1 plant
Ecocomplete and fluorite 4 bags ea. cost me 150 but didn't want the hassle of DIY.
Already have rodi unit for reef, will use same water for this tank.


Everybody and everything I've read says go CO2 for my size and lighting. With the money I've spent , I'm already all in on this so I surrender (so much for side hobby / starting small). I know ZERO about CO2. Need help. Dr fosters smith has a CO2 setup for about $140. What all do I need. Where locally would I buy and then refill the tank, etc...

Here's the link to the kit I mentioned. Not sure if it's any good. I'm the type that is willing to pay a bit more for convenience, so one kit if it's a good one is better than buying a dozen standalone parts from 5 different stores. http://www.drsfostersmith.com/produc...35&pcatid=9935

Please add anything I'm missing.

digital_gods

That's everything minus the co2 tank. Just watch Craigslist for used tanks and you might end up with a killer deal. Where are you at in the metroplex?

jumboag99

Stand/tank arrived today. Still waiting on a few misc items to arrive, but should start putting everything together next week.

What all do I need for a C02 setup?

I'm in Wylie.