Peat Fiber

[ringfinger]

My LFS is closing and everything was 50% off today, so I picked up some peat fiber for my Fluval 204. It is supposedly good for planted aquariums, but also mentions something about giving the water a "tan color". Is the color change quite drastic, or no big deal? Anything else I should look out for as far as PH goes?

 

[rich311k]

Peat is designed to lower PH. If you dont have a good reason to lower your PH don't use it.

 

[Toirtis]

Depends on the quality of the peat, and if it has been pre-rinsed...and how much you use, but at first, expect a fairly 'tea-ish' colour to result. As far as pH, it will drop your pH (how much and how quickly will depend on your tank's buffering capabilities), so keep an eye on it.

 

[workfortheman]

Heh, I'd say this is the perfect opportunity to go and buy 10 discus for your 29gallon and create an Amazonian biotope. JK. (I've heard of discus keepers wanting to lower pH with peat, which doesn't really do the trick . . . lol sorry 'bout the bad jokes here)