small planted tank

teddyzaper

this is the tank i want to convert into a small planted tank.
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is this tank ok for what i want or do i need a different one? also i have a light fixture so all i have to do is change the bulb right? the buld stil works. i want to put a little more then half the tank some moss or grass and a the rest some sword plants and gravel. i would like to put shrimp and snails and mabey some neon tetras in the tank. (like 5) is this to small for what im thinking of?

Twistersmom

What size tank is it? My guess would be 5 gal?

teddyzaper

i think but i got it for free and it is reallt small.

Twistersmom

You have the measurements? We can use the aquarium calculator.

teddyzaper

20" wide 12" tall and 10" deep

volkspider

2400 cubic inches is about 10-10.5 gallons.

Byron

Using the subsequent information and going back to your original question, no, it is not too small for what you're planning. And I think you can build a very nice aquarium along the lines you've indicated. Nice idea. A10g planted tank with a group of neons, shrimp and few snails would be beautiful.

We need to know what type of light tubes are in your fixture; on the tubes at one end it will have the name and wattage, if you cold tell us this.

You will need a small filter, and a heater; these weren't mentioned previously, but you may already know this.

You should put the gravel throughout the tank (not sure from your first post, maybe you actually meant this). There will be many lants to choose from and I will make sone suggestions (as will others) when we know the light details.

Byron.

teddyzaper

the light says "coralife 6700k (with a little TM) 65 watt" i own a heater and it works so i can change it to any temp needed. i also have a filter but it doesnt work very well. i could use one of the filters from my big tank and just get a big filter for it. yes i understand that i need substrate on the whole bottome of the tank ;P is there a special substrate or could i just get some playsnad and use it (wash it first) also do i NEED a water check thing to cheeck the ph and all that stuff (i dont really know "all that stuff other then nitrae and ph) i can post a picture of the filter and the heater. oh and also do i need carbon becuase my dad has like 5 of the dispenser things with carbon in it. idk how they work and i would perfer not to have it unless it makes it significantly easier (because of all the equiptment already in the tank) anything else i need or u guys need to help me figure out what plants and what filter, light, ect. i need in the tank? i can check my ph and stuff from my tap water? (we have a well so we have very good water sutable for cories, plecos, and convict cichlids

teddyzaper

oh wow a longer post then byron. i should win a prize lol!

Byron

Right on! Guess I won't respond, as you may not win. Never fear, won't leave someone in midstream.

The light is fine from the point of colour; 6700K is the spectrum colour indicator, and that is full spectrum which is closest to the sun at mid-day. I am wondering about the wattage, 65 watts must be quite bright, and over a 10g that could be too much. Plants need light, CO2 and macro- and micro-nutrients in balance, and if the light is more than they need to balance the nutrients, algae takes over. Perhaps a new bulb as you mentioned would be better, I would suggest a Life-Glo 2 full spectrum 6700K. And be aware that they have to be replaced every 12 months, since the output decreases quite significantly even though they still "light."

You don't want too much filtration on a planted tank. If you have an air pump, a simple sponge filter would be sufficient in a 10g planted. Also much less expensive.

You can use sand, and many do; I don't. Plant experts that I've read all recommend the small grain aquarium gravel, in a dark or natural shade. The plants can easily root but it is not so small (like sand) that it compacts too easily. And a darker substrate makes the fish feel at ease as it is closer to their natural habitat. Aquarium gravel can be bought in bulk, it's cheaper, and you will know it is inert; some gravels have calcium that raises pH and hardness, not good in a planted tank.

Carbon is not recommended for a planted tank. The plants need nutrients which they obtain from the water through their roots and leaves. Carbon in a filter removes useful stuff from the water, that's what its meant to do. Not for a planted tank. The plants are natures filters, and they do a terrific job. Your sponge filter will do fine, removing minute particulate matter as the water passes through it and provide enough water movement.

You will need a good water conditioner to use at the beginning and for each weekly partial water change; change 25-30% of the tank water each week. A gravel syphon works well with a pail for this.

It would be worth having your water tested for pH and hardness, your aquarium store might do this for you. Good info to know, believe me.

Well, I'm afraid I beat you again...guess you won't win that prize. But you will have a very beautiful planted 10g tank when this is done. There will be more questions, we're here to help when we can. Now I'm off to my fish for their supper and then mine.

Byron.