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PART 1 - BASICS

Our introduction explains that keeping a planted tank is a complex yet harmonious system, simplified into five core pillars: lighting, nutrients, CO2, water chemistry, and filtration. It highlights how mimicking natural "open" systems with practices like frequent water changes and CO2 injection helps create thriving aquascapes.

The section on CO2 highlights that injecting carbon dioxide is crucial for accelerating plant growth in aquariums, as it's a scarce resource for submerged plants. It details the essential components of a pressurized CO2 system and guides you on safely monitoring levels for optimal plant health.

This section stresses the importance of testing tap water and understanding GH, KH, and pH for a healthy planted tank. It guides on adjusting water parameters, recommending RODI units for hard water and proper remineralization, even for sensitive shrimp tanks.

Choosing the right aquatic plants is crucial for a thriving aquascape, requiring careful consideration of their light, CO2, and positioning needs. Strategically placing plants based on their requirements helps them flourish and minimizes common issues like algae.

Our lighting section emphasizes that proper aquarium lighting involves understanding PAR (intensity) and PUR (usable spectrum), recommending an 8-hour daily cycle to prevent algae. It guides on choosing dimmable LED lights that provide good PAR and PUR, with a focus on red spectrum, for vibrant plant growth.

Our  nutrients section emphasizes holistic fertilization via the Estimative Index (EI) method, ensuring plants never lack essential macro and micronutrients. It also highlights how high CEC aquasoils, like Tropica and ADA, effectively absorb and store nutrients to provide a continuous supply for rooted plants.

The filtration section emphasizes its vital role in breaking down harmful compounds and circulating nutrients for healthy plants. It recommends canister filters for their superior ability to achieve optimal water turnover and their versatility in mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration.

Finding balance in your planted aquarium means designing it as a cohesive system, harmonizing light, nutrients, and plant selection. Achieving this balance differs between low and high-energy setups, with equipment and plant demands guiding your adjustments in lighting, CO2, and fertilization.

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