CLEANING SAND SUBSTRATE

[cichlid savage]

I'm thinking of using sand as substrate in my next monster tank, and maybe trying to add a ray. How do you clean it. As i imagine it using the gravel vac would just suck it up and into the waste bucket. Is there something special to use for sand bottoms?

 

[angeladay]

It depends on the kind of sand you are using. I use pool filter sand, which is heavy enough not to get sucked up during siphoning.

 

[cichlid savage]

I was thinking of using play sand the kind you get at home depot.

 

[ewurm]

I want to try a ray and a sandy bottom too. What do I need? A 125?

 

[tha_predator]

sand grains are so compact that its hard for poop and other debris to get under it so you really dont need to plunge to the vac down into it. i just use the vac to stir the stuff off of the bottom and then suck it up when it rises. home depot has play sand also they have the sand for joining bricks it is usually heavier grains in it than the play sand. either one make sure you rinse it really good and let it settle before you turn on your filters bc just a little sand can damage the impeller.

 

[HarleyK]

Howdy,

Malaysian Trumpet Snails They do the work for me

HarleyK