1. הקדמה
The PENN-PLAX AquaTerrium Planting Tank (Model PTA1) is a unique 1.85-gallon hydroponic aquarium designed to integrate live plants and aquatic life. This system features a curved glass tank, an integrated filtration system within a rock landscape, and a Cascade Plant Growth LED Light. The design facilitates a natural aquaponics cycle, where water from the aquarium is circulated to nourish plants, which in turn help filter the water for fish.
Figure 1: The AquaTerrium Planting Tank, showcasing its integrated rock landscape and LED light.
2. אַרייַנגערעכנט קאַמפּאָונאַנץ
Before beginning setup, ensure all components listed below are present and undamaged:
- Curved Glass Tank (1.85 Gallons)
- Rock Landscape with Integrated Waterfall
- Cascade Plant Growth LED Light
- Internal Water Pump
- 2 Coarse Filter Sponges
- 7 Plastic Plants (2 Large, 2 Medium, 3 Small)
3. סעטאַפּ אינסטרוקציעס
קסנומקס. פּלאַסעמענט
Select a stable, level surface away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and drafts. Ensure the location can support the weight of the tank when filled with water and decorations (approximately 14 pounds dry weight, plus water and substrate).
3.2. רייניקונג
Rinse the glass tank, rock landscape, and all included plastic plants thoroughly with clean water. Do not use soap or detergents, as residues can be harmful to aquatic life.
3.3. Assembling the Rock Landscape and Pump
- Carefully place the rock landscape into the tank. It is designed to fit snugly against the back and sides.
- Install the internal water pump into the designated compartment within the rock landscape.
- Connect the pump's tubing to the water outlet at the top of the rock landscape, ensuring a secure fit. The tubing may need to be trimmed to an appropriate length to prevent kinking and ensure optimal water flow.
- Place the coarse filter sponges into the filter compartment.
Figure 2: Detail of the rock landscape, showing planting pots and integrated filter area.
3.4. Adding Substrate and Water
- Add your chosen aquarium substrate (gravel, sand, or planted tank substrate) to the bottom of the tank. Rinse substrate thoroughly before adding.
- Slowly fill the tank with dechlorinated water. Fill to the recommended water line, ensuring the pump is fully submerged.
3.5. Planting
The rock landscape features several planting pots. You can use the included plastic plants or live plants suitable for hydroponic or semi-aquatic environments. If using live plants, ensure their roots are clean and free of soil before placing them into the planting pots. The cascading water will provide nutrients to these plants.
Figure 3: The AquaTerrium tank with artificial plants arranged in the rock landscape.
3.6. Installing the LED Light
Attach the Cascade Plant Growth LED Light to the tank. The hinged base allows for 90-degree mobility for easy access. Plug in the light. The LED light contains 12 high-powered bulbs (red = 620nm / blue = 450nm) to support plant growth.
3.7. Cycling the Tank
Before introducing fish, it is crucial to cycle the aquarium. This process establishes beneficial bacteria that convert harmful ammonia and nitrites into less toxic nitrates. This typically takes several weeks. Consult an aquarium guide for detailed cycling instructions.
4. אָפּעראַציע
4.1. פּאָווערינג אויף / אויסגעלאשן
Plug in the water pump and LED light to activate the system. The pump will begin circulating water, creating the waterfall effect and nourishing the plants. The LED light provides illumination for plant growth and display. Use a timer for the LED light to establish a consistent day/night cycle for plants and fish.
4.2. Water Flow Adjustment
The internal water pump may have an adjustable flow rate. Refer to the pump's specific instructions for details on how to increase or decrease water flow. Proper flow ensures adequate water circulation for both filtration and plant nourishment.
4.3. Plant Care (Hydroponics)
The integrated aquaponics system uses fish waste as nutrients for the plants. Ensure plants are positioned correctly in the planting pots to receive consistent water flow. Monitor plant health and trim as needed. If using live plants, additional plant-specific care may be required.
4.4. Fish Introduction
After the tank has successfully cycled, you may introduce fish. Due to the 1.85-gallon volume, select small, appropriate species. Suggested fish include Goldfish (note: goldfish produce significant waste and may outgrow the tank), Mollies, Platies, Guppies, Tetras, Danios, and Corydoras Catfish. If tropical fish are chosen, an aquarium heater (not included) must be used to maintain the desired water temperature.
Figure 4: Small fish inhabiting the AquaTerrium tank.
4.5. Suggested Plants
For live plant enthusiasts, suitable options include Anubias, Chain Sword, Indian Red Sword, Dwarf Baby Tears, Christmas Cactus, Coleus, Cordyline Terminalis, and Arrowhead Plant. Experiment with plants that thrive in hydroponic or high-humidity environments.
Video 1: Official product video demonstrating the AquaTerrium Planting Tank with live plants and fish, highlighting its integrated features.
5. וישאַלט
5.1. Water Changes
Perform regular partial water changes (e.g., 25% weekly) to remove accumulated nitrates and replenish essential minerals. Always use dechlorinated water that matches the tank's temperature.
5.2. פילטער רייניקונג
Rinse the coarse filter sponges in old aquarium water (removed during a water change) every 2-4 weeks to remove trapped debris. Do not rinse under tap water, as chlorine can kill beneficial bacteria. Replace sponges when they show signs of significant wear or degradation.
5.3. פּאָמפּע מאַינטענאַנסע
Periodically check the pump and its tubing for blockages or kinks. Algae can grow inside the transparent tubing, reducing flow. Clean the tubing with a pipe cleaner or small brush as needed to maintain optimal water circulation.
5.4. Plant Trimming and Algae Control
Trim live plants as they grow to prevent overgrowth and maintain aesthetics. Monitor for algae growth on tank surfaces and the rock landscape. Use an aquarium-safe algae scraper or brush for removal. Ensure proper lighting duration to minimize excessive algae.
6. טראָובלעשאָאָטינג
| פּראָבלעם | מעגלעך סיבה | לייזונג |
|---|---|---|
| Water pump not working or weak flow | מאַכט אירtage, clogged intake, kinked tubing, pump malfunction. | Check power connection. Clean pump intake and impeller. Straighten or replace kinked tubing. If issues persist, the pump may need replacement. |
| פאַרוואָלקנט וואַסער | New tank syndrome (bacterial bloom), overfeeding, insufficient filtration, unrinsed substrate. | Perform partial water changes. Reduce feeding. Ensure filter sponges are clean. Thoroughly rinse substrate before use. Allow tank to cycle fully. |
| געוויקסן ניט טרייווינג | Insufficient light, lack of nutrients, incorrect plant type, root rot. | Ensure LED light is on for 8-10 hours daily. Check water parameters for adequate nutrients (nitrates). Ensure plants are suitable for hydroponics. Inspect roots for rot and trim if necessary. |
| Excessive algae growth | Too much light, excess nutrients (overfeeding, infrequent water changes). | Reduce lighting duration. Perform more frequent water changes. Reduce feeding. Manually remove algae. |
7. ספּעסאַפאַקיישאַנז
| שטריך | דעטאַל |
|---|---|
| מאָדעל נומער | PTA1 |
| טאַנק באַנד | 1.85 גאלאנען |
| Glass Tank Dimensions (W x D x H) | 9.75" x 10.5" x 11.75" |
| פראָנט הייך | 6" |
| צוריק הייך | 11.75" |
| LED Light Dimensions (W x D x H) | 4.5" x 4.5" x 6.25" |
| געפירט ליכט באַלבז | 12 high-powered (Red = 620nm / Blue = 450nm) |
| מאַטעריאַל | גלאז |
| Item Weight (dry) | 14 פונט |
| UPC | 030172094897, 030172098505 |
פיגור 5: דימענסיאָנעל איבערview of the AquaTerrium Planting Tank.
8. וואָראַנטי & שטיצן
8.1. וואָראַנטי אינפֿאָרמאַציע
This product is covered by the standard Amazon Policy. For specific details regarding warranty claims, please refer to your purchase documentation or contact Amazon customer service directly.
8.2. קונה שטיצן
For technical assistance, replacement parts, or further inquiries about your PENN-PLAX AquaTerrium Planting Tank, please contact Penn-Plax customer support through their official webזייטל אדער די קאָנטאַקט אינפֿאָרמאַציע וואָס איז צוגעשטעלט מיט אייער פּראָדוקט פּאַקאַדזשינג.
