To CO2 or not to co2

[TeeJay]

Hey all. I have been thinking about CO2 for my planted tank. Was wondering everyone's opinions on if it's worth the time and money to add it. What would be pros an cons to adding to my system. If so what brands of setups do you use yourself?

[Tihshho]

CO2 is dependant on a few things IMO, others might believe it differently so prepare for various opinons. 

CO2 is part of the ecosystem 'ingredients' when it comes to planted aquaria. On it's own it does help with growth and some algae control, but it isn't as useful without being combined with a nutritent based substrate (or some sort of root based nutrient source like root tabs, MGOPS base layer, laterite, etc), a quality light, and finally a nutrient dosing regime. Together that combo is where you see everything shine. The issue is working with all of those variables and finding the balance for what works with your tank and water parameters. 

What plants are you looking for the best growth from? Yes, all will appreciate the CO2, but there are a lot out there that you can get phenominal growth from without the addition of CO2. 

[TeeJay]

On 5/19/2022 at 9:33 AM, Tihshho said:

CO2 is dependant on a few things IMO, others might believe it differently so prepare for various opinons. 

CO2 is part of the ecosystem 'ingredients' when it comes to planted aquaria. On it's own it does help with growth and some algae control, but it isn't as useful without being combined with a nutritent based substrate (or some sort of root based nutrient source like root tabs, MGOPS base layer, laterite, etc), a quality light, and finally a nutrient dosing regime. Together that combo is where you see everything shine. The issue is working with all of those variables and finding the balance for what works with your tank and water parameters. 

What plants are you looking for the best growth from? Yes, all will appreciate the CO2, but there are a lot out there that you can get phenominal growth from without the addition of CO2. 

Well right now I have Java ferns,dwarf chain swords,bacopa Carolina, dwarf aquarium Lilly, Anubias nana petite s and gold coins. A pogo and a few floating water sprites.

[Tihshho]

Adding CO2 would benefit to all of them, but it goes back to the whole thing about balance. Adding CO2 will more than likely require you add more to something else (lighting or fertilization) to get back to the balance if things are growing well now. 

[TeeJay]

On 5/19/2022 at 9:40 AM, Tihshho said:

Adding CO2 would benefit to all of them, but it goes back to the whole thing about balance. Adding CO2 will more than likely require you add more to something else (lighting or fertilization) to get back to the balance if things are growing well now. 

Yes I have the hygger planted tank light and I use root tabs and easy green as well. My plants do fine as best I can tell. It's been set up about 4 months now. Just curious if it made that much of a difference with CO2. I guess as the saying goes if it's not broke don't fix it.

[Tihshho]

If the plants are healthy and have the look you're after, IMO dont change it. If you're after specific color gains or tighter foliage, or some of the higher tech plants, then that's a whole other discussion.

Not trying to talk you out of making the move to CO2, but more so playing devils advocate. 

[TeeJay]

On 5/19/2022 at 9:49 AM, Tihshho said:

If the plants are healthy and have the look you're after, IMO dont change it. If you're after specific color gains or tighter foliage, or some of the higher tech plants, then that's a whole other discussion.

Not trying to talk you out of making the move to CO2, but more so playing devils advocate. 

Absolutely. And cost as well. I would rather hear all sides of the story.