Which Soil Substrate?

[exiled_infidel]

Hi everyone, this is my first thread so please be nice Am starting a new tank (the CADE 45cm ones on Mizu World) and Ben at Mizu world has been giving me a wealth of advice. I was originally unsure as to which substrate i should use (never having had a 'high maintenance' planted tank before). He suggested using Aquasoil Amazonia. After looking at their website more closely, im now torn between the following: Aquasoil Amazonia: http://www.mizuworld.com/index.php?t...Detail&pid=983 Aquasoil Amazonia II: http://www.mizuworld.com/index.php?t...Detail&pid=995 (mainly wondering if the extra water conditioning prowess of the latter is necessary with Singapore tap water) Also have heard that Amazonias tend to leave water cloudy for some time and are difficult to handle (being soft and crumbly). Nisso Custom Black Soil: http://www.mizuworld.com/index.php?t...etail&pid=1372 Riki Magic Soil: http://www.mizuworld.com/index.php?t...Detail&pid=648 I cant seem to find any info regarding whether fertilization capacity and prowess of the Nisso and Riki are comparable to the Amazonias. Additionally, im gonna be running a moderately lit (2.5watts approx per gallon) tank with NO carbon dioxide addition at all. Intend to grow relatively low maintenance plants (anubias, bolbitis and maybe aponogeton ulvaceous). Was a little concerned that the nutrients in all the soils would lead to algal growth. So basically, what do you guys think? Any opinions on what i should choose would be very much appreciated Thanks guys

[Verminator]

For plants such as anubias and bolbitis fertile soil isnt a requirement. These plants don't take nutrients from the soil, instead taking most through the water column, unless i'm mistaken. So a fertile soil such as Amazonia would lead to a greater chance in algae taking hold in your tank. If you plan on planting easy rooted plants it preferable to provide a fertile soil such as Amazonia.

As to which soil to go for. Although i have no experience with any of the soils you've mentioned i've heard people advise to stay away from ADA Amazonia II, with the predecesor Amazonia I (effectively) being the prefered choice.

Hope this small opinion helps. Ben from Mizu is very helpfull indeed and his knowledge is very impressive. Even myself, from the UK, have had dealings with Ben and i'm mightily impressed. I'd reccomend him to anyone

[JamesCampbell]

What a cool name exiled infidel Ha Ha.