Question about CO2

[rcherry]

I'm planning on upgrading to a planted 125 g new world cichlid tank. Id like it to be pretty heavily planted, but I have no idea about CO2 systems or fertilizers. Can someone run through the average cost and the complexity of it? Thanks

 

[fort384]

CO2 is a great addition to almost any planted tank. For a 125, you would need to look into a pressurized CO2 setup. It is not difficult at all to setup, but it will run you a couple hundred dollars. Take a look at the thread below... it gives a lot of info about running CO2, and how you dissolve it in your tank.
http://www.aquariumadvice.com/forums/f20/1-4-diy-3-4-purchased-co2-system-136350.html

Additionally, take a look at this thread:
http://www.aquariumadvice.com/forums/f24/how-to-set-up-a-co2-system-137982.html
It will show you the steps involved in setting up a pressurized system once you have the items in your possession.

If you are looking for a recommendation on what regulator to buy, I really like the MA957 from Milwaukee. It is a good low maintenance economical model that a lot of forum members use. Mine has ran continuously for years with 0 maintenance. You can purchase it here:
$88 - Milwaukee MA957 CO2 Regulator, Free Priority Shipping!

Be careful when choosing your fish and plants. A lot of cichlids are not compatible with live plants, and will dig them up/rearrange them continuously. Best of luck, and feel free to ask more questions!

 

[rcherry]

Thanks a lot, that was a perfect answer.