Newbie Journal to starting a planted tank

[Sharkfin]

Hi all,


Just a few question to ask since i'm starting my heavily planted tank soon.


1) What would be the preferred dimensions for a heavily planted tank with HC or Hairgrass carpet. Quite inspired by some of the aquascaping i've seen. Should i get a 2ft by 1.5ft by 1.5ft OR 3ft by 1ft by 1.5ft?

2) If i plan to have the foreground of the tank carpetted by HC and hairgrass, is there a need to divide or segregate the subtrate? Heard that it could be a bit messy growth if not done.

3) Is Chiller a must and what would be suitable? 1/5hp? What about a suitable and compatible Eheim external filter?

4) Is ADA amazonia the best subtrate? I understand that i still need to lay fertilisers if i'm using ADA. Is that true?


Appreciate all help i can get.

[Shadow]

1) Depend on you space, time and budget. The bigger the tank take longer to maintain and more expensive. If you plan for foreground plant, get shallow tank, easier for light to penetrate.

2) Up to you, but IMO divider make it look unnatural if not done properly

3) Chiller will help but not necessary. 1/10 hp good for 2ft tank and 3ft tank. For heavily planted tank you will need flowrate at least 8 to 10 times your tank volume. You need higher flowrate if you want to use chiller, chiller will reduce the flowrate.

4) ADA amazonia is the best substrate for planted tank but that was just my opinion . Nope you do not need to lay fertilizer for ADA soil.