African Cichlid Substrate

[MoNsTeR FiS]

I have a 450 african cichlid tank (it has a lot of plecos and synodontis to) and I am using gravel for a substrate. I want to get fine sand so my peacock cichlids can dig, but i don't know what kind to get or if i should get sand. I read sand can create sulfuric acid and that will lower the pH if it is sitting for to long without being stirred up. What kind of substrate should i use?

 

[duanes]

Aragonite sand can be purchased in many grain sizes, and tends to raise pH to equilibrium, buffering the water. It can be as small as sugar size grains.
I mix grain size.

I like to use it in fluidized filters as a buffering agent.

 

[MoNsTeR FiS]

Thanks,

Where would i buy this at? Also, would it work for the plecos, synodontis, and cichlids in the tank (and other fish i put in the tank because i am thinking of adding cory catfish)? Is it smooth?

 

[xraycer]

I read sand can create sulfuric acid and that will lower the pH if it is sitting for to long without being stirred up.

This can occur if the sand layer is too deep and goes undisturbed for a long period of time. To prevent this, don't go too deep with the sand, and sift through all areas of the sand every couple of weeks or so to prevent anaerobic condition from occurring

 

[MoNsTeR FiS]

This can occur if the sand layer is too deep and goes undisturbed for a long period of time. To prevent this, don't go too deep with the sand, and sift through all areas of the sand every couple of weeks or so to prevent anaerobic condition from occurring

Thanks,

What would you mix for plecos, synodontis, and cichlids in the tank?

 

[duanes]

Aragonite is usually sold as a salt water tank substrate, it is crushed coral sand.
I have it in tanks with Synodontus, plecos and corys.
The tank in my photo above houses S petricola.

 

[MoNsTeR FiS]

Is Aragonite smooth? If so, where would i buy it?

Also what substrate do african cichlids prefer?

 

[MoNsTeR FiS]

Is there a smooth and white sand that i could use. If so where could i buy it?

 

[duanes]

It is sold at any LFS that sells salt water fish, including Petco, and online at Drsfostersmith etc etc.
It comes from ocean beaches, so much of it is naturally worn down from wave action.

 

[timbo6684]

Pool filter sand by quikrete found at places like home depot for $6 @ 50lbs

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