75 gallon Firemouth species only Tank

[sevs and sajicas for me]

I've used sand for several years...i've heard the same stories about these supposed toxic gases accumulating under the sand and have never had an issue with it. For reference I ususally use about a 2-3 inch sand bed. Maybe it's more of a problem if you have more than that.

 

[Reiner]

I've used sand for several years...i've heard the same stories about these supposed toxic gases accumulating under the sand and have never had an issue with it. For reference I ususally use about a 2-3 inch sand bed. Maybe it's more of a problem if you have more than that.

I believe you are right. I think you need a serious thick sand bed for that to happen.

 

[Jexnell]

If you are that worried about the gas. Each water change plunge your fingers into the sand doing a 1/4 to 1/3 of the tank. That way any that is caught is released in small non troublesome amounts.

 

[FiremouthGem]

really appreciate all the help, being newer to cichlids/just getting into the small “monster” fish side this is invaluable to learn from others, so thank you for helping a newbie like me. how many pounds of sand would one recommend for 2-3 inches in a 75, has anyone tried to use plastic forks to lightly agitate the top of the sand during cleaning or do you prefer doing slow deliberate motions on the backswing of the siphon? any tips one can give to washing sand to prevent cloudiness? what brand of sand is recommended for fish and plants?

 

[Zanzag]

I use play sand or if I want a coarser sand I use paver base sand. I like home depot's paver one the best. It has some smaller chunks of rock in it.
I'd say two or three bags depending on n how well you wash it. 10-15 lbs in a bucket and blast it with hose water while stirring, letting the small particles and water out over the top of the bucket.

 

[FiremouthGem]

might have to do this in the bathroom tub/utility sink then considering all the outside water hoses and pipes were drained/prepped for cold snaps. thank you for the advice.

 

[Zanzag]

I hate washing sand in a tub. It's very rough on the plumbing. The utility sink would be better or if you can hook up a hose to the sink and run it outside?

 

[FiremouthGem]

Could probably do that just have to pick a day over 60

 

[Zanzag]

Hopefully there's still a few of those left for you.
I know the 10-day in my part of the state is calling for close to 70 all week.

 

[FiremouthGem]

looks like most of the week it's in low 60s but should be doable, checked the tank and there are no leaks thankfully it was just a bit of water when I picked up the tank when I got it some must of spilled or dribbled on the side when the lady I got it from got the Lima cat juv out of the tank.