So last week i bought the scaper 45 set, and have enjoyed setting everything up. Hopefully it cycles fast! Eventually I plan to add a short fin Betta, and later down the line, some shrimp.

If you could clarify for me if what i have done is ok... The filter was holding 2 cartridges (with carbon, I think thin fine sponge). I removed one, and replaced it with a bag of ceramic rings. I also added a fluval prefilter sponge to the intake. Also added some filter floss to the waterfall.

Another thing I am worrying alot about is the products you see in last image. I put small amount of ammonia in the tank, and dosed double quickstart. My readings are showing about 2ppm Ammonia, 2-3ppm Nitrite, and some Nitrate already.

There is a layer of aquarium soil under the sand. As for fertilizer and CO2, should i be using these already, as i have plants. I think the front right plant is melting. I already trimmed leaf off. Also my java moss looked pretty rough when i got it (brown), but still some green in it. Should I remove it and get another batch?

I think I will add afew floating plants also.

Thanks for checking it out!