What so special of ADA Soil?

[BFG]

Yeah, get a base fert too. I have a tank of ADA Aquasoil for my mom's shrimp tank but without base fert. My red lotus has not increased in size due to the fact that i did not have base fert.

[Star-flog]

Yeah, get a base fert too. I have a tank of ADA Aquasoil for my mom's shrimp tank but without base fert. My red lotus has not increased in size due to the fact that i did not have base fert.

If ADA Aquasoil is already 'so good' (based on all of your reviews) why we still need to add-in base fert? I'm little puzzled now.

[|squee|]

The soil is just soil with some special characteristics. If you noticed, Power-sand acts as a base fert, and ADA reccommends the use of the two products together. From there, I'd say that Aquasoil still needs base fertiliser.

[PeterGwee]

Well, as far as experiences are concern here, I would not recommend ADA aquasoil to new folks. Why? CO2. Folks will have problems measuring their CO2 levels if they were to use such a substrate until the point where the peat effect evens out and the substrate pH returns to neutral again. Poor CO2 accounts for 90% or more of new folks problems with algae.

Regards
Peter Gwee

[Star-flog]

Well, as far as experiences are concern here, I would not recommend ADA aquasoil to new folks. Why? CO2. Folks will have problems measuring their CO2 levels if they were to use such a substrate until the point where the peat effect evens out and the substrate pH returns to neutral again. Poor CO2 accounts for 90% or more of new folks problems with algae.

Regards
Peter Gwee

Hi Peter, thanks for your comments.
After considering all factors and comments, I think I'll still go for ADA Aquasoil (black) because planning to keep school of Cardinal Tetra (50+). Researched a lot on this fish and like its awesome coloration. It would be nice in the planted tank.
Also understand that this fish requires low PH 6, soft water and dark substrate that will bring out their colors. So, ADA is still the best choice.
Don't you agree?

[Simon]

You need not use Aquasoil to get Cardinal tetras to show off their full glory.

[Star-flog]

You need not use Aquasoil to get Cardinal tetras to show off their full glory.

Because Aquasoil is black color and has the property to lower the PH level and soft water, so it should goes well with this fish..unless there is a cheaper alternative? thanks.

[PeterGwee]

Variety of food and good health of the base eco-system is the key to good fish health and colour. pH is seldom an issue here and those low pH readings stated from natural systems are not measured with specialized probes which is needed for poorly buffered water. Focus on the plants needs (light,CO2 and nutrients) and the fish would do well.

Regards
Peter Gwee

[Star-flog]

Variety of food and good health of the base eco-system is the key to good fish health and colour. pH is seldom an issue here and those low pH readings stated from natural systems are not measured with specialized probes which is needed for poorly buffered water. Focus on the plants needs (light,CO2 and nutrients) and the fish would do well.

Regards
Peter Gwee

Good advice and of course the fishes needs to be fed too. Just think of the justification to buy this 'expensive' aquasoil.

Also, I believe - The Caribsea Eco-Complete Planted Aquarium Substrate (see photo) seems quite close to ADA Aquasoil, unfortunately, this product not available in Singapore yet.

[ranmasatome]

you can use ketapang water to lower ph if you want...it works..especially for a small tank..but dont put too much in a shrimp tank...it makes their eggs harden...not good.. but a little is okay.

[Star-flog]

you can use ketapang water to lower ph if you want...it works..especially for a small tank..but dont put too much in a shrimp tank...it makes their eggs harden...not good.. but a little is okay.

I won't want to do that, 'risky operation' to add some unknown thing in the tank. Better not try..

[ranmasatome]

its safe la.....just dont over dose..heehee..

[Star-flog]

As understand that ADA Aquosoil stanard packet is 9 litres instead of by weight.

Anyone knows in term of weight (kg/weight) for this packet I need, if want to have a depth of 2" of substrate for 2ft x 2ft base?

[gregorsamsa]

if i am not wrong, you will need 2 packs, and all you will get is a flat 2 inch base. this is calculated by 9 litres being the volume displaced, and that you require 18 litres to get the above mentioned desired height.

hope it helps

[Star-flog]

if i am not wrong, you will need 2 packs, and all you will get is a flat 2 inch base. this is calculated by 9 litres being the volume displaced, and that you require 18 litres to get the above mentioned desired height.

hope it helps

Much appreciated for the advice. Thank you!