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Where do you guys buy your ADA from?

Molls900

By Molls900
in General Questions/Discussions

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Molls900 Be nice I'm new here

Molls900

Posted
Posted

Just curious where others are buying their ADA from and the prices they are paying. Starting a big project here soon and I want to get the best deal I can find to make it a little more cost effective. :)

 

Thanks!

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NoGi Shrimp Guru

NoGi

Posted
Posted

Most of our sponsors carry ADA soil but I see that you are in the US. Perhaps one of our US members can advise.

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jayc Shrimp Guru

jayc

Posted
Posted
1 hour ago, Molls900 said:

Any suggestions for a strong alternative?

Yes, Cal Aqua Lab - Black Earth Premium.

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jayc Shrimp Guru

jayc

Posted
Posted

I was in a bit of a rush when I replied ...

You're probably wondering why BEP is a good alternative to ADA.

 

I have used many types of substrate, ADA amazonia I, II, benibachi, Up Aqua, etc.

And I always return to CAL BEP.

I'll just give you a quick summary.

  • CAL BEP will buffer pH to 6.5 or lower (if you use more substrate). Just like ADA.
  • Low ammonia release, unlike ADA, so much faster cycling.
  • Very clean, no twigs, and floaties, unlike ADA.
  • Buffers pH just like ADA, and I have 1 tank that is still buffering after 2 years. My other tanks that use BEP is still young. ADA's buffering lifespan is also very good. I had tanks 5+ years that was still buffering well. But BEP is shaping up to last just as long. Only time will tell.
  • Substrate granules are rounder than ADA or Benibachi. Looks better plus better for ground dwelling fish like corys.
  • Minimal clouding when replanting. Doesn't cloud as much as ADA.
  • Does not crumble into fine dirt when crushed. It will still crush if pressed hard, but not as soft as ADA.

Cons:

Costs more than ADA. But then again, since you are in the US, it might be a very similar price to ADA.

We get killed with shipping costs in Australia. ?

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revolutionhope Shrimp Master

revolutionhope

Posted
Posted

+1 BEP admittedly i was altogether new to substrate but went for BEP as per jayc recommendation.. I recklessly dumped a bag of it in my tank in 5minutes or so (cycled tank which had benibachi fulvic grains in an eheim canister filter; but the fulvic grains weren't  cutting the cheese) and there was no ill effect whatsoever.

The berried ladies didnt bat an eyelid.

love n peace

 

will

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