I was sure whether to post this question here or in the plants section.
Anyway: I would like to 86 the plastic plants in my 15 gal high tank and replace them with the real McCoy. My only concern is that when I vacuum the gravel now, I bring up a considerable amount of gook. I am worried that having real plants would keep me from removing this stuff, because I'm worried about injuring their roots during the cleaning or by removing them beforehand.
First, is the gravel gook that harmful in the first place? Do I really need to concentrate on removing it during the water changes (about every 3 weeks). Second, what would be the best method for cleaning the gravel if I have numerous plants in it? If I ahve the plants, I'm worried the gook will build up with the ability to clean the gravel.
I have 6 neon tetras, 4 platies (and now about 7 babies - going to have to set up a nursery tank! ;D ), and 2 cory cats. Am I feeding them too much - is that was some of the gook is?
Any ideas are greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Barry
Anyway: I would like to 86 the plastic plants in my 15 gal high tank and replace them with the real McCoy. My only concern is that when I vacuum the gravel now, I bring up a considerable amount of gook. I am worried that having real plants would keep me from removing this stuff, because I'm worried about injuring their roots during the cleaning or by removing them beforehand.
First, is the gravel gook that harmful in the first place? Do I really need to concentrate on removing it during the water changes (about every 3 weeks). Second, what would be the best method for cleaning the gravel if I have numerous plants in it? If I ahve the plants, I'm worried the gook will build up with the ability to clean the gravel.
I have 6 neon tetras, 4 platies (and now about 7 babies - going to have to set up a nursery tank! ;D ), and 2 cory cats. Am I feeding them too much - is that was some of the gook is?
Any ideas are greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Barry