Co2 injection, Yes or No...?

[si_sphinx]

Is it ok to use Co2 in my cichlid tank to grow my java ferns a bit better?

Ive read that it lowers the pH a bit but not sure by how much, or if it would be to much for the fish

[alanmin4304]

I read on another forum that the harder the water the more light required by Java Fern and that could be your problem.

[si_sphinx]

I have 2 x 30" 25W & 1 x 23.5" 20W

I thought this would be enough...?

[tHEcONCH]

Sounds pretty average - I'd get better lights before bothering with CO2

[HaNs]

Increase the lighting, dose a fert and dose with Flourish Excel

How bigs the tank?

[si_sphinx]

But does any1 know if added Co2 will affect the fish at all?

[HaNs]

But does any1 know if added Co2 will affect the fish at all?

Yes, if there is too much CO2 in the water they will suffocate.

CO2 can also cause ph swings in water with low buffering properties

[si_sphinx]

Ok thanks, i think i might set up a plant tank to grow up my plants a bit bigger and then add them to my bigger tanks.

[HaNs]

But if you get a 240v solenoid and regulator you should be fine

[Luke*]

what's your kH? (carbonate hardness) if it's 6 then you have enough to buffer you and avoid the pH crashing.

Is it ok to use Co2 in my cichlid tank to grow my java ferns a bit better?

if you use a bubbler in the tank as well you should be fine as this will oxygenate the tank at the same time

[Freakyfish]

If you use an airsytone at the same time your going to be releasing alot of Co2 out of your tank

It will lower your PH if you use it to much but if it is turned off at night you should be fine

Though the Hardness levels with show you there

Also I cant see it suffocating your fish

I run 5 bubbles a sec into my tank and the fish are fine

I also use no airstones

Brad