CO2 systems for planted aquariums?

I have a 150 gallon heavily planted tank and it’s filled with the normal variety of plants: Madagascar lace sword, onion plant, java moss, java fern, Anubias barteri, cabwoman, valisneria, etc. For the past 5 years or so, I’ve been supplementing the tank with carbon rich fertilizers to support growth. However, recently I’ve been looking into CO2 injection systems, as a way to promote better plant growth and provide more stability for the plant. I just want to know whether it’s worth investing in one (as they are quite expensive), and what might be some other effects, if any, of implementing a system?

CO2 systems for planted aquariums?
If you don't want to jump straight into the several hundred dollar (even as much as thousands of dollars), you should really consider a carbon block instead of pressurized carbon... It takes up far less space, is just as easy [if not easier] to regulate, is FAR cheaper (name brand only costs about $150, but brandless will be about $50), and a single block will easily provide sufficient CO2 for a 150 gallon tank... However, if you do decide to add CO2, be sure to minimize surface agitation [if you don't already]-- surface agitation will oxygenate the water and release CO2 into the air. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.





http://www.thatpetplace.com/pet/group/11...


That is the basic idea of what I was suggesting, though not necessarily that brand.
Reply:If your plants are doing well without it I wouldn't recommend it. CO2 systems can cause problems with the pH if you are not careful so its not worth the risk if your plants are doing fine without it.
Reply:This will help with your pH concern...








http://www.csd.net/~cgadd/aqua/art_plant...





Congrats on the tank, sounds like a nice one.





You've gone this far and once you buy a CO2 regulator you can use the co2 system on any future smaller or bigger tank operations you have with amazing results.





Try finding a used certified cylinder to save money or check at your LFS for anyone selling a complete set up.





CO2 is the backbone of growing strong plants and with a tank that big a pressurized CO2 delivery system would provide some really nice results.





It's like being in a car and stepping on the accelerater. Crank the CO2 you can hear the plants grow.





Your right as supplements cause co2 levels to spike then decrese keeping the water in constant flux and the plants out of whack.





you know with plants its a balance of substrate/lights/ferts/CO2





once there in balance the tank surges.





The only thing you don't have control yet is the CO2 and your at the mercy of iradic supplements.





Monitor your CO2 level now and compare your readings in forums to other people to get an idea.





Once you control the CO2 theres no limit to your tank.








Good Luck!!!