Recent content by Vincent

For those of us who want to grow low-light plants like anubias, java fern, and crypts in inert gravel (rhizomes above, of course), is there an optimum size range for the gravel? I've read a few recommendations for 2-4mm, which strikes me as correct. I ask because my gravel is 7-10mm, and I...

Is there any reason not to use a Fluval CO2 88 on a 5.5 gallon tank? It looks the same as Ista's 95G Premium, and that one says it can be used for nano tanks. Thanks!

Thanks, Nils. I'm using a 12-inch Stingray and like it a lot. My current system is to have another lamp on for 15 minutes before and after the Stingray to approximate sunrise and sunset. It works, but it would be so convenient to have an actual 12-hour cycle run automatically by the fixture.

When I bought a light fixture for my first planted tank, I made the mistake of assuming that the included T8 would be an appropriate default option. A bulb of 14W on a 5.5 gallon tank without CO2 yielded plenty of algae.

I like the Deep Blue Professional tanks with their black corners and clean design.

Thanks for the heads-up.

Does anybody make a programmable light that would fit a standard 5.5 gallon tank? I want to be able to adjust the output and have a programmable daily light cycle. Ecoxotic had a 12-inch E-series, but I think it has been discontinued. Thanks!

My experience with anubias is that it's practically a living "fake" plant in terms of how durable it is. But the problem seems to be that it grows too slowly to outcompete algae. I guess if you're going to go the low-tech route with slow plants, a cleanup crew is a must.

Thanks for your replies. Okay, so I need to identify the factors that are triggering it in my tank. I feed my betta three pellets at each feeding, and he usually eats them right away. He'll occasionally spit one out and let it sink to the gravel (maybe 1 or 2 a week). I don't know if the...

After a few months of cyanobacteria on the gravel and brown algae (diatoms?) on the silk plants that just isn't going away, I've decided to restart the aquarium. Aside from providing a smooth transition for my betta, I want to accomplish two things: 1) I of course don't want a recurrence of the...

I have a broad leaf anubias that recently started getting little, fuzzy black spots on its leaves. From what I've read, it's probably black beard algae. I don't see it anywhere else. What are my options for removing it? My light is a T8 8000K full spectrum, and it's usually on for about 10...

Thanks, Fresh2o!

My Deep Blue Bio-Maxx nano HOB filter came with two sponges, one meant for mechanical and the other biological. Are they adequate for a 5.5 gallon aquarium with one betta? Or should I replace either of these with something else (I have a small bag of Fluval Biomax that would fit if I trim or...

It's not about budget at this point. I'd happily spend significantly more (within reason, of course) for the right filter. It's just that pickings are awfully slim when you're looking for 12-20 GPH. King of DIY does have some interesting ideas. I also like Pondguru Outdoors' moving bed...

I checked with Tetra, and they said the Whisper 3i would work for my application as long as I stay on top of water changes. I'll go with that.