Better substrate for polys

[Polyaddict86]

I got a new tank and im undecided on what substrate to use, pebble or sand, i Have black sand on my 75g poly tank but i wanted something different, i wanted the red garnet sand but cant find any in my lfs. Im open to any suggestion right now, any one can send me a pic. And details of the substare you guys use will be a huge help. Thank you

 

[DMD123]

Sometimes you got to go outside the box. Look at places other than the fish stores. I have used a sand called 'lapis lustre' and bought it from a rock and gravel company. You might check with companies that provide welding supplies also since garnet is used to sandblast.

 

[Polyaddict86]

Thanks DMD, i herad that lowes and home depot carry sand and gravel, im just not sure if i can use it in a aquarium.

 

[Zilch]

I ordered estes ceramaquartz from a local construction company... Much cheaper than the equivalent colored sand from a lfs and comes in a lot of different sizes

 

[Polyaddict86]

I ordered estes ceramaquartz from a local construction company... Much cheaper than the equivalent colored sand from a lfs and comes in a lot of different sizes

Thanks, got to look around, see what i can find.

 

[Vancouver_98683]

Anything red is best to intensify markings. It could be Gravel or sand. Every other is not going to be able to compete.

 

[jaws7777]

Dont buy the regular play sand. From what ive seen with other members is very light and really hard to clean.

 

[Vancouver_98683]

It's a shortcut for red garnet sand for sure, but I switched back to red gravel today. I just 'dusted' (lol) the red on top to blend in with my natural looking mixed medley. In my experience, polys markings show up best on red hands down. Was not too pleased with how bland the markings with all other color variations.

 

[Polyaddict86]

What about this kind a sand?
Its kinda pinky red, any comments.

 

[Vancouver_98683]

Put in water in glass to see if u like the visual results. As for if it's safe or not. Don't know.