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This website documents my experiences with Apistogramma and Discus in a planted tank.
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The Hierarchy of Plant Needs - Carbon
CO2
The addition of carbon is directly linked to the amount of light we use. If we are using high light then higher levels of co2 are needed. If we are using moderate lighting the amount of co2 will be less. It is fairly simple.
Low light planted aquariums are prized for their beauty and simplicity. These tanks utilize the carbon present in the atmosphere and other organic processes in the aquarium. No additional co2 is needed.
We can add co2 in the moderately lit planted aquarium. This will provide an extra boost and can be run 24/7 or during the photoperiod. With moderate lighting the intake of carbon can be balanced easily.
When running co2 24/7 start off with extremely low bubble rates, monitor the pH and 24 hour activity of the tank. Increase bubble rate until desired conditions are met. The drop checker is the latest addition to methods of monitoring co2 levels. If your uncomfortable with pH and KH levels using a tool like the drop checker will be helpful when balancing the amount of co2 to be added.
High light tanks require larger amounts of co2 with a high demand during the photoperiod only. This requires pressurized co2 and a decent co2 reactor such as the inline AquaMedic 1000 or a glass/ceramic diffuser. It is important to keep in mind that the high light tank uses the co2 added. Keep in mind if the high lighting is removed the tank's water can become toxic from overdose of co2.
A pH controller uses a probe to monitor the pH. At a set value the controller will activate or deactivate the co2 solenoid. If a pH of 7 is established then the controller will be set at 6.2 for example. Taking for granted parameters are solid the amount of co2 added is controlled. I do not use pH controllers.
While surface agitation degasses co2 it is important to keep the tanks source of oxygen present. CO2 levels can be increased easily by reducing surface agitation. When keeping large fish like discus oxygen produced by the plants should not be relied upon and other means of aeration should be provided.
In the event disaster strikes one can do several things to stabilize the tank from co2 overdose. Immediately turn off the co2. Raise the spray bar or filter output above the water surface. Run airstone in the water. Increase surface movement via powerhead. The exchange from surface contact is degassing co2 and stabilizing levels in the aquarium.
CAUTION: Always keep co2 canisters secure in tank stand to prevent disaster and/or damage to regulator. I assume no responsibility for damages or injury due to use of pressuried co2. Safety first.
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