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Re: Substrate




David Rabelius is setting up his 80 liter tank which will be planted.  He 
asked for advise on what type of substrate to use?  David, do you plan on a 
planted tank with a few fish to support it or perhaps a fish tank that is 
planted?  Another consideration is the type of water you have and if you are 
willing to significantly alter its chemistry.  If you have hard alkaline 
water, you can make it softer and reduce the pH by using a peat mixed 
substrate under the gravel.  If your water has little buffering, this may 
not be a good idea.  You may also want to have a biotype tank, using only 
plants and fish from a specific region.  A good example is Amazon basin with 
soft acid water.  You can have various tetra fish and many Amazon swords and 
related plants.  Let the group know your interests and there are plenty of 
people who can point you in the right direction.
Rochelle Williams
williaro at ftmcphsn-emh1_army.mil