So here is my latest thing… Planted Aquariums. I have two small aquariums that don’t look too good. Adding a bunch of plants seems to make every aquarium look good.

Here is my random brain dump on the topic:

- There are two different approaches, those that pump a system with lots of light and CO2 using either yeast based CO2 reactors or tanks of CO2. The other approach is to use less light and not push the fertilizers like CO2 or other nutrients. The low tech approach is much more stable. The high-tech systems can go off the tracks easier because the are running faster, there is much more potential in the system.

Here is what I have been reading:

Low tech, high tech or mid tech? – Good overview article on the different approaches

Starting guide for planting a 10 gallon aquarium

 Aqua design amano are the leaders of the hi-tech approach, and this is their US shop. Here is a tour of the shop in Japan

Aqua Forest Aquarium in San Fran also stocks ADA stuff. They also have great FAQs on all the product categories.

Nano Aquarium – follow the creation of a planted nano aquarium, down with the higher tech approach

Aquatic Plant Forum – great forum on the topic

Good overview of some of the equipment need for an aquarium.

Great prices on CO2 regulators and controllers

Source for DIY lighting equipment

How to build a yeast powered CO2 generator

Follow the growth of a low tech planted tank:

• The Start
• Week two
• Week three
• Week four
• Week five
• Six Months

Great collection of info and FAQs on a bunch of topics from lighting, to CO2 systems, to plants

A bunch of setups people have and documented:

• Tank 1 – 50 gallons
• Tank 2 – another 50 gallons

Online discusion with the director