40gal low tec planted

[greg y]

here's my 40gal breeder set up. No ferts, no co2 system, just dirt and 2 cheap t5 bulbs

[kodyboy]

Nice: )

[Steve]

Looks like the plants are doing well Greg. What are the tall ones are those swords or some sort of tall anubias? I've got some small anubias and java in my 75 but once I get the discus tank set up I'd like to get some taller plants that don't need co2, that's why I was wondering what you tall ones were.

[greg y]

As far as I know everything is a type of crypt, besides the bit of anubis tied to the wood.

I used to have a lot more diversity but after the 110 broke and I downsized etc... Some stuff didn't make it.

My experience with crypts is they are great but don't really do well until the tank is really well established

[Steve]

I've never had any crypts before. Do they have to be planted in dirt or can they be tied to wood and such like java/anubias can be?

[danotaylor]

Looks the goods mate...well done! How long has the tank been established and running fert free? Do you pH reduce the water?

Steve I am pretty sure crypts need to be planted in substrate and they do best in acidic water...

[greg y]

This tank has been up and running like this for 18 months. Here is a pic of day 1


It's so low maintenance now. I do a large water change every 5-6 weeks and rinse out my filters every 4 or so water changes. lol
You can't tell from the pics but there's 6 rosy barbs and 6 Odessa barbs in there.

I'm excited to have a new tank (100g) but a bit sad to be breaking down such a nice tank for the upgrade.
I see a lot more water changes and tests in the future. It will be worth it though.

[kodyboy]

Crypts need to be planted.  I use the plant substrate found at stores forgot the brand.
My crypts do fine in tap water pH 7.6.