Little Shop of Coral
Aquaforest Freshwater Natural Substrate 7.5L
Aquaforest Freshwater Natural Substrate 7.5L
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AF Natural Substrate is a nutrient rich, peat and clay based substrate base for aquascapes and planted aquariums. Readily available micronutrients and plant food within it create a fertile, nature-like environment, ideal for long-time plant support and growth. AF Natural Substrate is well suited for the development of a healthy root system, and to help aquatic plants thrive. The peat and clay natural Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) will also absorb any excess nutrients from the water, and either make them available through the roots, or release them back into the water once it becomes depleted. Features and benefits: The carefully selected peat creates excellent conditions for the root system, and supplies plants with all the necessary minerals and trace elements. Clay improves the texture, and acts as the base, achieving excellent consistency. Similarly to peat - clay acts as a natural layer for storing excess nutrients, and maintaining biological balance in the tank. Micronutrient contents have been supplemented under laboratory supervision to make sure that aquatic plants have an abundance of trace elements, while the chemical balance of the tank stays in check. AF Natural Substrate is rich in micronutrients, so for the first three months Aquaforest do not recommend the use of fertilizers containing micronutrients, unless the plants show visible signs of deficiency.
HOW TO USE:
① Install heater cable if used. ② Spread the substrate on the bottom of the tank and compact it to achieve approx. 2-2.5 cm thick layer. ③ Cover with about 3cm of gravel or sand. ④ Gently fill aquarium with about 15 cm of water. In order to avoid disturbing the substrate, we suggest placing a plate or dish on the bottom, and directing the stream of water on to it. ⑤ Place the plants in the substrate. ⑥ Fill the aquarium with water. 10 L of AF Natural Substrate should be sufficient for a 200 L aquarium with a 100 cm x 40 cm bottom. Substrate can lower and stabilize the pH of the water, therefore it is recommended to use a dedicated test or probe.
Collapsible content
LIGHT
LOW: Place coral at the bottom of the tank. Depending on the type, coral may need to be placed off sand and therefore mounted on a ceramic disc of piece of rock.
MEDIUM: Place coral at mid-range of the tank. Best placed/glued on top of a rock scape at mid-range height.
HIGH: Place coral from mid range to just below water level. SPS coral are shallow growing so they require and are able to tolerate intense light.
FLOW
LOW: Most soft coral do well with a small, gentle pulse. There are certain corals that can even be placed in areas of indirect flow, meaning places aside a rock structure or set into a entrance to a cave style space.
MEDIUM: Many LPS types of coral prefer medium pulse current. Most Euphyllia or corals that have more tissue structure connected to their skeleton, don’t like to be in a high flow area like the direct flow of the wave pump.
HIGH: Similar to high light, SPS enjoy being in some heavy current. Most LPS and SPS that branch encrust or plate prefer high flow that simulates the top water waves.
SKILL
ENTRY: While some may say beginner level, "Entry" is a good term to be used when starting out in the world of corals and marine life. Prior to adding livestock, you want to ensure that your reef has the proper parameters including zero levels of ammonia and nitrite. Seeing traces of nitrate in your waters is a good sign - just keep them at a lower level of 2ppm to 10ppm. Maintaining correct temperature and salinity are a huge factor to stable parameters. Starting to monitor your PH, alkalinity, calcium and magnesium is a great habit to get into to keep a successful reef.
While some soft coral don’t require too much light, having a proper reef light that puts out the proper pars is very important. You'll also want to have a good amount of flow and protected rock areas, as placing corals in their happy spot is ideal for success.
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