Need help

[snowc]

Hi my newly planted rotala's leaves are turning brownish. Now trying to determine the problem. Here's my tank parameters:

Size: 3ft*1.5*1.5
Lighting: T5*2
CO2: around 1bps
KH: 4-5 (using baking soda)
Fertilisers: Root monster (No liquid fertiliser used yet)
Substrate: Dennerle Quartz
Temp: 28-30 deg
Water Change: Once a week (20 percent)

I think the wpg rule may not applied to T5 lighting so asking if my lighting is enough? Pls help thks.

[troyz]

HI bro , maybe u would like to get a profantec fan on for 24/7 for cooling down the temp. , or maybe a second set of T5 or pl set...i have a 3ft*1*5*1*5 tank n i am using 2 set of lights that means T5 39w*4...fert. include Lushgro n Micros, KNO3 N PO4...ADA Amazonia soil...my rotala n tonina is o.k...hope this helps...happy scaping bro..

[|squee|]

Liquid fertilisation is needed... fertilisation via the substrate is often not enough. Explore your options here: can get commercial ferts and follow their instructions, or go the hard way by learning dosing via powders but it's cheaper.

[PeterGwee]

Estimative Index dosing is not hard at all. It's a simple routine which you follow exactly week in week out coupled with weekly large water changes to remove the excess. The only thing that is difficult is the CO2 due to it's variability. EI rules out nutrient problems and whenever you have issues, it's always the CO2 and sometimes circulation (lack of water current..you don't need a torrent but gentle even movement.)

Regards
Peter Gwee

[snowc]

Thanks for the help Regarding the lighting, do i need to get another set of T5? As for the fertilisation, i tend to try out the line of seachem brand 1st. Read about EI dosing but still not comfortable about the massive water changes on my fishes.

[|squee|]

Imho only get another set if you want more plant growth. More light comes with cons too, like higher maintainence. More light = more of everything else.

It's just 50%. I used to think that it was insane, but I have Ember tetras that bred in my EI tank. They can take it.

Of course, if your fish are the expensive/sensitive type, don't try anything that makes you feel uncomfortable!