Leaves in substrate?

[aquarium 308]

Getting things together for a 40 gallon south America biotope. Going to consist of mostly a variety of tetras and Cory's. I was gonna use floramax and white sand 50/50 mix. Wondering if it hurts to place dead leaves in the substrate. Trying to make it look somewhat authentic.
Thanks

 

[Bert2oo1]

I'm pretty sure decaying plant matter (dead leaves etc) give off ammonia and can give u some serious algae issues. Not 100% on that but I'm pretty sure I read that somewhere


30g planted, 90g Oscar tank

 

[Shrimp_guru]

If you want to use leaves, almond leaves are your best bet. They will, however release tannins in your tank, although the fish you said you wanted will appreciate that.


Sent from my iPhone using Aquarium Advice