We are a brand born of an obsession with performance, a belief in good science, and a knack for invention.
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We are a brand born of an obsession with performance, a belief in good science, and a knack for invention.
Read our story.
We define it as a combination of discerning research and real world results.
We define it as a combination of discerning research and real world results.
January 07, 2024 2 min read
Above: brown algae (Diatoms) and plant melt is common in new tanks.
When starting a a new tank, it is common for users to have seemingly 'perfect' water parameters and still face significant plant melt and algae.
This is because the microbial ("beneficial bacteria") community isn't established yet. It is hugely important, but cannot be directly measured by hobbyist test kits.
"But I measure 0 Ammonia, 0 Nitrites, <5ppm Nitrates, have a pH of 7.5 and have added lots of starter bacteria & water conditioners that bind all the bad stuff "
Interestingly, we intuitively know that 'perfect' measurements have limitations because if we are asked "Is the water therefore safe to drink?" we know the answer to be "not necessarily".
The 2Hr way:
Above: notice the tiny snails. While commonly considered a pest, we find that these critters hasten the path to biological stability / microbial maturity....so we actually welcome them :)
For those who do wish to decontaminate plants, it is important to do so gently. Damaged plants have far higher chance of melt / failure. FIX or FIXLITE can be used to create a 5% dip solution (20 parts water to 1 part APT FIX / APT FIXLITE). Dip plants in solution for around 10 seconds, not more. And remember not to let the plants dry out.
"What if I'm impatient?"
On many occasions, we find ourselves in a rush as well. So we may cycle tanks for less than 2 weeks, and add delicate and slower growing plants even at the beginning. When we do so, we accept the natural consequences: much higher chance of algae at the start, more chances of plant melt.
Where can I find out more?