Do You Actually Need Plants?

[spooks]

Hi,

I've just setup a new rift valley tank and am in the process of doing a fishless cycle. I just wanted to ask is it absolutely necessary to have plants to consume nitrate or will regular water changed be okay? I have loads of rocks in the tank at the moment and plants never seem to do well in my tank so cant be bothered with the hassle...

Thanks,

spooks

 

[Dany]

no plants in a rift valley cichlid setup!!!
dany

 

[spooks]

no plants in a rift valley cichlid setup!!!
dany

Yeh thats what I thought, i have seen loads of rift tanks with plants in though. I don't want them in it's just my lfs says I should to remove the nitrate... I didn't think it sounded right so I thought I would check with you guys.

 

[rixy]

you could put certain plants in the tank if you wish,but,most people who keep malawi's,dont have any plants.get yourself a good quality external filter and plenty of rocks,keep on top of water changes,decent quality food,decent quality fish and you'll have a stunning tank.

 

[Marshall]

I doubt you could squeeze enough plants in to successfully lower nitrates. Use a external filter and add BioNitrex made by JBL. Comes in little sacks a works by enabling anaerobic bacteria to grow thus reducing nitrates. As well as water changes mind!