Are plants necessary and how to start?

Shara

<sigh> I've been looking anywhere for the eco-complete. Five stores so far. I can't find it!!! Sobs. There is only one real aquarium store in this city that i know of and it's mostly salt water but I'm going to try there tomorrow. Can I start cycling without a substrate??

Oh and also I bought 'regular' ammonia from the grocery store. The only other option was 'sudsy' and I definitely did not buy that. I guess the regular is ok? There's no ingredient list.

FordMan

i wouldn't do a tank with out some kind of plant life they're essential at removing co2 and nitrates even if that means providing enough light for a heathy coat of green hair algae like in a rocky african cichlid tank where plants can be hard to keep rooted

Shara

I'm really liking the idea of Mosquito Rasbora. I've never had them before and think they are awfully pretty. Would ten be too many in the tank? I'd also like one of those little catfish and the little algae eaters. Sorry I'm horrible with the names

FordMan

i'd suggest a school of 6 Neon Tetra's and a trio of dwarf corries for color and hardiness