substrate

eclod · Post by **eclod** » 15 Sep 2003, 15:22

hi all,

what is the most suitable substrate material for Corydoras spawning tanks? I would like to set up a series of 20 or so tanks for my corys, all on the same rack and was wondering what the best set up would be.

I currently use bare bottom tanks painted black on the botton and back. Is that sufficient or should I add some sort of substrate?

Thanks
Ralph

Caol_ila · Post by **Caol_ila** » 15 Sep 2003, 15:30

Hi!

No substrate is the easiest to clean so i think your setup is the best choice.

eclod · Post by **eclod** » 15 Sep 2003, 15:36

Thanks Caol_ila,

I like barebottom tanks, partially because that is what I am used to. I raise mostly show bettas and for grow-outs we always use barebottom tanks since it's much easier to clean.

I wasn't sure though if the corys would prefer substrated tank. I was looking through Ian Fuller's pictures and noticed that he had substrate in his tanks.

I haven't been too succesful breeding Corydoras so far, partially because i don't have the rack set up for them yet and they are in my main fishroom which is too warm for them. Hopefully I can finish building the wracks and move them soon.

Thanks
Ralph

Post by **Coryman** » 15 Sep 2003, 22:10

All my breeding tanks have a sand or very fine gravel substrate, I don't like clinical setups. Sand is a natural substrate for Cory's and I think they are happier on it. What ever you use make sure it is smoot grained and not sharp and gritty.

Ian

eclod · Post by **eclod** » 15 Sep 2003, 22:24

Hi Ian, do you use any type of smooth sand, or particular forms? I was not sure because most of the sand that I have are for my African cichlid tanks which usually alters the water chemistry.... does that matter? I guess a rather stupid question, as i know it does, but do corys not prefer more soft and acidic water? I think adding sand would cause the water to become a harder and more alkaline? Thanks--ralph

Allan · Post by **Allan** » 17 Sep 2003, 21:58

Yes, you don't wan't to use your chalk-sand for Tanganika/Malawi's. Also a bad idea to use sand from the beach. Both can make alkalinity hit the roof.

Ask a well assortet pet-store for river sand. You can get a 25 kg bag quite cheap, and thats almost enough for 20 small breeding tanks

Grain size imo maximum 2 mm - I prefer really fine sand (River sand mentioned is really fine), but to fine can be a problem when using a strong current.