**Interspersed**

"LeighMo" wrote in message
...

Flourite or Onyx would be easier, especially if you're a beginner. But
lots of
people use plain old sand in planted tanks. Pool filter sand is a good,
low-cost choice. Mix laterite into the bottom inch or so. (Be careful
not to
use coral sand or anything like that. It's okay for marine tanks, but
will
play hell with your pH in freshwater.)

I'm not quite a beginner, but I've never had the opportunity to do a tank
*specifically* with plants in mind. I just liket he loko of sand, but I'll
consider the flourite.



Sand can be a problem in an unplanted tank, because it tends to compact
and can
be hard to vaccuum (since it's so fine). But with a healthy planted tank,
the
plants' roots will bring enough oxygen into the substrate to keep it from
going
bad.

Also, best filter for a 40 gal moderately planted tank? Canister-type is
what I'm leaning to, due to space considerations, HOT design would move
the
tank out too far.

A cannister is ideal for a planted tank of this size. It gives you
control
over the amount of surface turbulence, which can be important if you
decide to
inject CO2.

Eheim still the leader? DIY CO2 is guaranteed, a commercial set-up likely,
though a few months down the road.


Leigh

http://www.fortunecity.com/lavender/halloween/881/