planted 55g tank substrate cleaning

[daneek155]

I have a 55g planted tank with flora max as my substrate..what is the best way to clean the substrate with a python during water changes. I tried the way I clean my gravel tanks but I end up sucking alot of the substrate out... what do you u guys recommend

 

[BillD]

You don't clean the substrate in a planted tank. Just remove what is visible on the surface.

 

[Coursair]

+1 just do water changes and light suction above the substrate as you move. I have sand. My MTS (snails) and shrimp keep things clean and my plants get the rest. I pick up debris w tweezers as needed.

 

[daneek155]

Do bamboo shrimp help keep the bottom clean... just wondering if they are worth 10 bucks

 

[Coursair]

Do bamboo shrimp help keep the bottom clean... just wondering if they are worth 10 bucks

NO ! They are specialized filter feeders. Nothing eats debris. Even bottom feeders eat food.

 

[daneek155]

Is floramax a good substrate for plants

 

[Coursair]

Is floramax a good substrate for plants

I looked at it, but haven't used it yet. Was gonna try it and ended up using free black sand. I put Osmocote tabs underneath so my plants are getting food that way, plus I dose weekly.

I love using black sand for now, the plants and fish really pop !

I used Flourite sand in one tank and blasting sand in the other. Both have Tahitian Moon Sand on top cuz it's pretty

 

[Coursair]

Is floramax a good substrate for plants

I meant to say, I'm sure it would be fine to use Floramax. You can always start a thread and ask for feedback on it.

 

[fishdud]

Is floramax a good substrate for plants

I use floramax for my plants and they're doing fine