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Re: Peat in substrate
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>
> From: Elizabeth Worobel <eworobe at cc_UManitoba.CA>
> Date: Thu, 1 Feb 1996 07:24:04 -0600 (CST)
> Subject: Re: peat as substrate
>
> Dont add composted manure! The organic matter is way too high ...
> generally a soil substrate should not have more than 20% organic matter
> or the macrophyte growth decreases. Peat is not a problem, however, since
> the organic matter is 'refractive', that is , it is not easily oxidized.
> One of the main benefits of a soil substrate is that it is anaerobic ...
>
> Dr. Dave
>
> ------------------------------
The statement about peat is not strictly true. Peat is 'refractive' in a
bog where the pH is ungodly acidic; that's why it builds up over time.
However, put it in a spot with a pH conducive to bacterial growth and add
somoe nitrogen (as in a garden or the bottom of your aquarium) and it
will rot. Some people get away with it in the bottom of an aquarium,
some don't. I was in the latter group and had to tear my first tank
down. I now stick to low organic matter substrates--plenty accumulates
down there over time. Note that I do not have heating coils; perhaps you
can get away with more organic matter if you use them.
Paul Bucciaglia in MN where its probably a lot colder than where you are
(save for folks in Fargo, ND or the artic)