Can You Use Previously Live Salt Water Sand for FreshWater?

[Big Kahuna]

Hello Y'All,

A lot of people are getting out of Salt Water. So there are a lot of what used to be live sand for sale.

My question is, can you use what was previously live sand for use as a substrate in freshwater? If it was previously "live", for salt water, what do I now need to do to make it "Ok" for freshwater?

I appreciate any input.

Thank You.

 

[devder1]

Put it in a bucket of water with a clove oil solution and your live sand will no longer be live!

 

[Big Kahuna]

Ok. Thanks. What exactly is clove oil?? I've heard of olive oil but not clove oil.

 

[dmopar74]

most SW substrates have buffering agents that will keep your ph around 8.3, not very ideal for FW. play sand or pool filter sand is cheaper than dirt and a better choice.

 

[Lupin]

I've used it before. Not an issue if the fish you are keeping, require hard alkaline water.

 

[Big Kahuna]

Terrific! Thanks so much for all your inputs!!

Regards.