Substrate Layers

insert name here · #1 04-06-2009, 09:49 AM

After stones on the bottom for drainage, what are the next layers to use?

beckdg · #2 04-06-2009, 05:46 PM

you need a seperater and your (substrate). so on top of that you would put some fiberglass/vinyl replacement screen. on top of that your coco-fiber, moss, organic soil or whatever.

insert name here · #3 04-10-2009, 04:40 PM

How much space should there be between the water surface and the beginning of the substrate.

beckdg · #4 04-10-2009, 05:18 PM

at least 3" in most cases, but it varies depending on species for plants and animals alike.

insert name here · #5 04-10-2009, 05:57 PM

I am setting it up for pygmy chameleons and I have heard 1 inch is good. I was just wondering though.

beckdg · #6 04-11-2009, 01:35 PM

chams are really sensitive to many things, so i'd go with 3 at least so they can choose to be in a drier area when they need to be... i know they will not always be on the ground, but still i wouldn't want my substrate soaked for them.

viva la viv · #7 10-18-2009, 06:47 PM

since this post is on the topic of substrate layers I thought i might ask what you guys have had luck with for under water substrate layers..This is where my palu is failing I have a hard time keeping the plants in the water area. My palu is 6ft high and its light source is a 250 watt metal halide and it says it produces usable light to a depth of 15ft the filter is a fluval 205 ext. canister all seems good so i kinda blaim my substrate layer which is small 1-3 mill gravel think its lacking nutrients..Would just like a little direction as to a new bottom layer my tank is drained and ready to go soon as i know what i need.
THANKS

beckdg · #8 10-18-2009, 08:04 PM

viva... that's a very good question. there is a lot to consider. a lot of it has to do with personal preference. i think dedicating a new thread to the subject would be beneficial.

tolt · #9 11-26-2009, 03:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by beckdg

you need a seperater and your (substrate). so on top of that you would put some fiberglass/vinyl replacement screen. on top of that your coco-fiber, moss, organic soil or whatever.

HI
I have a real newbie question here*Blush*

I was planning on setting up my tank in the following order

TOP
soil
coco peat
charcoal
vinyl screen
3' layer rocks
Bottom

But my question is what soil do you find is the safest (for frog) and best to grow plants in?????

Cheers tolt