You can't blame BBA on your substrate, like Tom mentioned it's
probably CO2 related. Sure it has nutrients in it but with CO2 and
correct fertilization there is no reason why that should cause any
problems. Perhaps for a non CO2 tank a more inert substrate such as
flourite may be an easier choice...

Personally, I like the look of eco-complete, however having used both
I still prefer Flourite for the following reasons:

1. Flourite is heavier therefore it is easier to plant in and holds
stems better until they are rooted.

2. Roots seem to grip the eco-complete better than flourite, making
the task of pulling out rooted plants messier compared to Flourite.

3. It raises hardness.

4. Vacuming Flourite is easier than eco-complete due to the weight
difference.

As you can see all mechanical related reasons besides the hardness
issue. As far as plant growth goes, eco-complete on it's own is
growing plants very well for me while Flourite being inert requires
additional substrate fertilization to get the same results (that is if
your fertilization regeim also relies on substrate fertilization).
Personally I prefer to fertilize the substrate myself as I have more
control over it and I can keep the nutrients down deep where they
won't be released into the water. Having said all that, if you like
the look of eco-complete, you certainly won't have problems growing
plants in it, nor any algae issues due to the substrate itself. Both
of these substrates are very good IMO.

Hope that helps
Giancarlo Podio


" Gink wrote in message . ..
Everyone I know who has tried it got black brush algae infestations in
their tanks (even people who have never had it).

I ignored them and used it anyway. After about the 5th week, I saw the
beginnings of black brush algae on my plants.

I would say don't use it.



(Engine21) wrote:

I'm setting up a 55 gallon freshwater tank that will be moderately planted. I
have flourite in my 75 gallon and it seems to work pretty good with the CO2
injection.
Does anyone have experience with Eco-Complete substrate (CaribeSea)?