5g RCS breeder tank

[James_in_MN]

I had a 2.5g tank with RCS and java moss in it that I decided to re-home to a new 5.5g tank I bought at an aquarium auction. I didn't move the small amount of Fluval substrate that I had in the tank with them, however (considering making a planted nano-tank).

Is there a substrate that would work best for RCS? I was thinking about using either a very light or very dark substrate to try to show their colors off the best (would help to see them while vacuuming the substrate). White? Dark blue?

Should I consider sand, or run-of-the-mill gravel? I probably won't plant anything in this tank - only java moss.

 

[Terrance]

Black substrate, sand preferable.

 

[James_in_MN]

Sand would be an interesting choice. That doesn't mix well with a gravel vac, does it?

Would RCS show up better on a dark color than, say, white?

 

[Scouser]

Sand would be an interesting choice. That doesn't mix well with a gravel vac, does it?

Would RCS show up better on a dark color than, say, white?

You simply hold the vac just above the sand as any waste will stay on he surface

 

[LyndaB]

Agree, sand is best.

When I vac my 3 sand substrate tanks, I have no issue with holding the python 1/4 inch above substrate. It does suck everything up.

 

[James_in_MN]

Thanks for the replies.

So, do RCS show up better with a darker substrate than a lighter one?

 

[Terrance]

Thanks for the replies.

So, do RCS show up better with a darker substrate than a lighter one?

Yes. See for yourself on YouTube and google images.

 

[James_in_MN]

Yes. See for yourself on YouTube and google images.

I saw what you mean, and bought some black sand. Thanks!

 

[James_in_MN]

Oh boy.

I've already transferred the RCS and java moss to the 5g tank a few days ago, prior to buying the black sand. Do I have to take them out while I put the sand in?

I'm having nightmares of chasing 20+ RCS around that tank with a net.