For many years, carbon dioxide (CO2) injection has been employed in planted fish aquariums. Its main advantage is that it promotes plant development, which helps to maintain a healthy and safe habitat for your fish and other occupants.

WHY IS CO₂ SO IMPORTANT FOR AQUATIC PLANTS?

Light, macro/micronutrients, and CO2 aquarium kit are the three basic variables that aquarium plants need to get energy and thrive. Because carbon dioxide gas is a natural limiting element in aquarium plant development, a plant will not reach its full potential until additional carbon dioxide is supplied to the tank. CO2 concentrations in ordinary tap water are typically about 3-5 parts per million (ppm). When an aquarist adds CO2, they aim for a concentration of 25-35 ppm. Don't worry; later in this piece, I'll explain how to detect CO2 in your tank.

When employing a pressurized CO2 system and somewhat acceptable lighting, many plants that are commonly regarded as hard, difficult, or expert are actually pretty easy to keep. Due to the initial cost and the complications that might occur from not understanding what to look out for, many fishkeepers choose not to tamper with CO2 injection. Hopefully, after reading this article, I will be persuaded.

THE CO₂ TANK

There are a few options, but I believe the best options are either a regular 5+lb tank or a 20oz paintball tank. The smaller paintball system is the way to go if your aquarium is less than 30 gallons. A bigger 5lb tank designed for a kegerator is the best choice if you wish to set up numerous tanks or an aquarium(s) of 40 gallons or more.

First, see what you have easier access to—I don't have a paintball/airsoft store in town, so I have to go an hour out to replenish my smaller tanks. Because this can be inconvenient, I make sure to stock up and have approximately three more filled tanks on hand. If you want a larger tank, check with your local welding supply or home brewing business to see if they can fill or change out huge tanks.