Jbl Aquabasis Vs?

[Twinklecaz]

Hi

So my new Fluval Roma 125l is coming on Tuesday (as I may have mentioned once or twice )and this time, I've decided I'm going to have a plant substrate as I really want a nice looking heavily planted aquarium. I had decided on JBL Aquabasis but I've read a couple of bad reviews saying it makes the water cloudy and I also see that it's brown which I don't like the idea of.

What would you all recommend? Other details are that I'm going to put a black sand over the top (unless I can find a plant sunstrate that's black)and that I do want to about 60-70% carpet my new tank too.

Also (and very importantly) how much of whatever I decide on do I need to buy (floor of tank measures 80x35cm). Obviously I want it to be quite deep and me being me, I like to have some left over.

 

[Llegmore]

I've planted two tanks using that very substrate this week. I used sand over the top of both. Strangely enough, one has cleared perfectly and the water is crystal and the other is so cloudy that I can't see the bottom.

I've found that JBL manado is a great substrate. It's reddish brown and really pretty too.

 

[Twinklecaz]

Is that supposed to go over the top of Aquabasis?

What do we all reckon to this one (Caribsea) http/www.charterhouse-aquatics.co.uk/catalog/caribsea-ecocomplete-live-planted-substrate-20lbs-p-1729.html

Is it good and could I use it as a stand alone substrate?

 

[Twinklecaz]

Helllllppppppp *smallest girlie voice*

 

[Twinklecaz]

Wow, whoever keeps moving posts all the time - it's very helpful.

 

[Llegmore]

Sorry. I couldn't find you

I used Manado as a base with nothing under it and a little sand over the top. It's worked really well.

Can't really give an opinion on your link but the reviews look good. Hmmm. Substrates are always so hard to judge.

 

[Twinklecaz]

Lol yes it's a bit OTT. I'm half expecting different sub-forums for every day of the week any time now!

Thanks. I know,so much choice. Think I might have to bite the bullet and just choose one that looks nice lol.