What type of plants for 64L Amazon Biotope Aquarium?

I have a 64L aquarium that has been running for a few months now. My intention is to turn it into an Amazon biotope. Having zero experience with planted aquariums I have been researching for a while now but am still unsure how to progress. I currently have gravel substrate but am looking to change to sand shortly as I am looking to introduce a few corydoras into the tank.

Substrate questions:

1. Will plants grow in the sand unaided? I have a completely new light system installed for the purpose of growing plants. I have no problem investing in CO2 system but don't want to harm my fish by overdosing with this.

2. Should I leave the gravel underneath the sand or remove it completely?

3. What depth of sand do I need? I hear that too much can create toxic gas pockets how do I minimize this?

Plant questions:

4. Looking for plants that are relatively easy to keep initially. Something that fits in with the amazon biotope theme. From my research cobomba and amazon sword seem like good choices. What do you think? Also what plants are recommended for foreground and midground use?

I hope I am not biting off more than I can chew with this Amazon biotope and can't wait to get started in this new area of the hobby (new to me at least).

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Permalink Reply by Peter on October 23, 2013 at 8:48pm

1. Sand is inert so u will need to add root tabs to ur substrate. Invest in co2 and a co2drop checker and bubble couter so u can monitor the co2 levels and ull need not worry about gassing ur fish.
2. Remove the gravel
3. Make it about 2" deep but mix ur sand with diff size sand grains so it doesnt compact and create anerobic conditions in ur substrate.
4. If u have a good light system and co2 and using rootabs u can grow most n e thing. As in all plants will be easy to grow. But cus its an amazon biotope look up plants from te amazon and use those.
And dont worry planted tanks are easy. Even high tech is easy just more maintenance. Good luck and keep us posted