90 Gal setup change over, Gravel or sand for substrate

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
Scorpio

Scorpio

Feeder Fish
MFK Member
Jun 1, 2008
84
0
6
Queens, NY
I'm changing the whole setup on my tank. A friend recommended using sand instead of gravel. I had never used sand in any of my aquariums and don't know if is better than gravel. My friend stated that sand is better because the waste doesn't penetrate into the sand rather stays on top and is easier to clean than the gravel in which the fish waste goes right into and then a gravel vacuum is needed. Regardless of which substrate choose I want to go "black". I would like to complement with a piece of driftwood and maybe just one or two plants. I forget to mention that the fish stock will be CA/SA Cichlids, mainly 3 - Red Devils/Midas, 1 - pleco, 1- parrot and possibly 1- Parachromis loiselle female.
I would like to hear your comments
:thumbsup:
 
I read somewhere that sand can build up gases and can be harmful to fish? Idk. Love the looks of sand though.
 
I have sand in all my tanks fresh and salt and love it.
 
babers said:
I read somewhere that sand can build up gases and can be harmful to fish? Idk. Love the looks of sand though.
Click to expand...

If your sand layer is over 1" thick then yes, you can get anaerobic pockets of gas buildup which can cause your fish problems if left unchecked...

But thats a simple solution to fix by just stirring your substrate a little with every water change...

Plus all the fish poop stays on the substrate layer which makes it even easier to clean vs gravel where a lot of waste can get trapped...


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