Hi All, New to the aqua life, have been doing some research on aquariums. I really do enjoy planted aquariums so willing to give it a go on a small scale before i invest wildly. Any tips for a small nano tank? Substrate to use? where to buy? Plants that are best suited? Heard java moss or any moss for that reason is easy to grow. So if anyone has please do let me know. I am based in JHB region.
I, and welcome to TASA. What size tank are you looking at, when you mention a Nano tank. Some people use a 15L as a Nano, while others think a 60L tank is a nice sized Nano tank. You are quite limited to amount of livestock you can keep in a Nano tank. A few shrimp, together with some Emerald Rasbora or Celestial Pearl Danio could look stunning. Remember to add a few Otocinclus to keep algae at bay. Substrate is a matter of personal opinion. I like dark substrates, as they tend to bring out the colours of your plants and fish. Prodibio Aquasoil, Seachem Flourite Black and Langa are all excellent. I prefer Susswassertang to Java Moss. It grows faster, and is "neater" than Java or Xmas Moss. Plants are once again a matter of personal preference. Something that doesn't demand a lot of attention would be a good first time plant. Anubias Nana Petite and Java Fern that you can attach to some driftwood or rocks, together with a low light stem plant could look very good. Cryptocorene Wendtii planted in a good substrate also doesn't require high intensity light, has few demands, and grows well with minimal care. Ludwigia Repens grows well with only a bit of Seachem Excel and weekly doses of Seachem Flourish added. It just needs trimming regularly, as it will soon outgrow your tank. If you are starting out, take your time, do your homework, and a bit more research, then make your choices, knowing that you are likely to change your mind a couple of times at least. You will probably also choose something, buy it and scape your tank, only to find that it doesn't work for you, and try something else. That is what makes being an aquarist so great. Good luck, and happy spending of all your spare cash once this bug bites you.
Hi and welcome to TASA @Pezulu has given you excellent advice there As he suggests do some homework and research a little.. search this forum.. there are very good threads to read through. If you are completely new to the hobby, remember your tank needs to cycle before you can add major livestock so read up a bit on cycling a tank or the nitrogen cycle Good luck and keep us posted
