PattyCakes81
Aquarium Advice Freak
Hi!
I have been researching tropical freshwater aquariums through the Internet & books for a while, now! I feel I am ready to start in this hobby!!
I currently have the BARE BONES of a 20 high gallon tank and stand(no hood or top). First I apologize for the long post! My questions are as follow:
1.Do I need a hood and glass canopy?
2.I want to give it a go on plants what extra things I need to have a planted tank?
2a.What kind of lighting is needed for "beginner plants"?
3a.Do I need to use something like, Flourite or Eco-complete?
3. I want to have cories in my tank, what substrate wont hurt them?
4.Is an Aquaclear 50 good or an overkill?
5.What type of plants are good for a beginner like me?
6.Stocking Ideas? I would like all the levels of the tank to be covered. I like species that stay rather small(up to 3 in. or so) I like platies, guppies, dwarf gourami, cories, betta, cardinal tetra, snails.
7.What type of heater you recommend and why?
8.For this tank with the Aquaclear filter, Do I need extra aeration?
9.Do I put the plants before I start cycling or after?
Once again I apologize for the long post!! I really want to start the right way in this hobby!! Any advice, suggestions and opinions are welcome!! I need all the help that can be offered!
Much Thanks,
Patty
I have been researching tropical freshwater aquariums through the Internet & books for a while, now! I feel I am ready to start in this hobby!!
I currently have the BARE BONES of a 20 high gallon tank and stand(no hood or top). First I apologize for the long post! My questions are as follow:
1.Do I need a hood and glass canopy?
2.I want to give it a go on plants what extra things I need to have a planted tank?
2a.What kind of lighting is needed for "beginner plants"?
3a.Do I need to use something like, Flourite or Eco-complete?
3. I want to have cories in my tank, what substrate wont hurt them?
4.Is an Aquaclear 50 good or an overkill?
5.What type of plants are good for a beginner like me?
6.Stocking Ideas? I would like all the levels of the tank to be covered. I like species that stay rather small(up to 3 in. or so) I like platies, guppies, dwarf gourami, cories, betta, cardinal tetra, snails.
7.What type of heater you recommend and why?
8.For this tank with the Aquaclear filter, Do I need extra aeration?
9.Do I put the plants before I start cycling or after?
Once again I apologize for the long post!! I really want to start the right way in this hobby!! Any advice, suggestions and opinions are welcome!! I need all the help that can be offered!
Much Thanks,
Patty