first live plant aquarium

**LizardFisher** · 05-15-2009, 10:43 PM

Hi everyone, my gf and I recently had the idea to start an aquarium and I happen to have one laying around collecting dust. It's a 20 gal. tank (24"x12"x18"). I did a little research on what filter to purchase and finally decided on the Marineland Biowheel power filter 150 rated for up to 30 gal.. Filled it with some natural colored gravel and river rocks and also some rocks I had from my backyard pond and driftwood. We let the filter run for a good 24hrs before adding the plants. We started out with an anubia, some jungle val., and telenthera. The pet store employees recommended using fertilizer tablets which we bought and used. They are API pro series root tabs, we also got some Kent freshwater plant liquid fertilizer in which we used one 5ml vile of. It's been about 4 days and the plants seem to be doing well with the 15 watt hood light. Had the water tested today at the local pet store and got the go ahead for fish but am still hesitant to add fish just yet. Any recommendations on the lighting?, do I need more wattage for these plants? what fertilizer to use? Also my water seems to have turned a bit yellowish after I added the plants, rocks and driftwood. Is this a problem or will it clear up over time? I will include some pics of my set up and current condition. Thanks

**troy** · 05-15-2009, 10:48 PM

The tinge is the driftwood releasing tannins. The wood will eventually stop releasing them.

**Kaz** · 05-15-2009, 10:53 PM

Definately cycle your aquarium.

WildTurkey is probably going to beat me to it but read this:
http://www.aquaticcommunity.com/aqua...ead.php?t=1602

Get at least 20 watts worth of lighting.

40 watts and your plants will grow like weeds.

EDIT: oh, I see you have 15 watts

**LizardFisher** · 05-15-2009, 11:12 PM

Looks like that book has most of my answers, thanks Kaz! I will wait another week or so before adding any fishes. Would the tannins released from the driftwood have an affect on the fish?

**Goodbye** · 05-15-2009, 11:15 PM

Originally Posted by LizardFisher

Looks like that book has most of my answers, thanks Kaz! I will wait another week or so before adding any fishes. Would the tannins released from the driftwood have an affect on the fish?

Nice Pics!!

I dont think that tannins would have any affect on the fish. The tannins will disappear in a week or two.

**Kaz** · 05-16-2009, 01:13 AM

Tannis lower PH slightly but have no effect on the fish.

What type of fish are you considering?

**LizardFisher** · 05-16-2009, 01:48 AM

Well from what I've gathered it is best to start with a school of fish which is what I intend on doing. I'm thinking either some type of danios or barbs. I eventually want a community of fish, I'm open to suggestions.

**DrNic** · 05-16-2009, 03:37 AM

Great looking tank!

I would start with danios for the cycle. That will give you more options for a community later as barbs can be a little nippy with some types of fish (particularly ones with longer fins).

**matthew.shelly** · 05-16-2009, 04:36 AM

very neat looking tank. i would stay away from barbs. they can be a little too aggresive for a 20g commmunity tank. you plants looks good. i would get a little more lighting. i have a 15W over my 5.5 gallon tank.

**Kaz** · 05-16-2009, 01:35 PM

Yes barbs can be aggressive but danios could work.
I'd suggest small tetras for 20 gallon.

So are you intrested many small fish or do you want some bigger fish?
Do you want schoolers or do you want loners?
What are your thoughts on bottom feeders?

If your going for a community I'll suggest a Dwarf gourami too.

http://www.aquaticcommunity.com/fish/lalia.php
http://www.aquaticcommunity.com/gourami/dwarf.php

Good luck, And don't let us make all the decisions for you!