From Substrate to Bare bottom?

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A

AttackFish

Feeder Fish
MFK Member
Apr 10, 2007
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Is it possible to go from having substrate to Bare bottom?
Wouldn't this cause a major issue with beneficial bacteria?
The tank has a pretty thick natural gravel layer, I've wanted to go BB for a while, but I didn't want to just start scooping out substrate.

Advice?
Thanks
 
Others may advise against it but I've done it three times. The only time I had an ill effect was when I added pool filter sand after going from gravel to barebottom to pool filter sand, and the effect was a couple rays panting heavily for a couple weeks...but I think it was a result of the sand. If you have ornaments like plants, wood, etc. and you don't change out your filters, I think you may be ok with regard to bacteria. I say go for it.
 
The tank isn't heavily stocked just a 4'' dat and an ABK.

Do I change water after I remove the gravel?
I can only image how bad. the water will become murky after scooping the gravel out.
 
dmopar74;2800734; said:
take 1/2 out, wait a week or two, then take the rest out.
Click to expand...
I was thinking that would be the answer.
Thanks
 
I went from sand to bare bottem with no ill effects, the sand was to much to keep maintained in the 155g with the fish that are in there so I took it out.... its been out since aug with no problems, plus my fish mate more now with nothing on the bottem....
 
Alright.
I think I'll remove about half of the gravel this weekend and see how it gos.

I'll most likely put the fish into a bucket while I'm doing so.
 
if you remove the gravel wouldnt create a mirror surface at the bottom? thats what i have been told thats why i still have gravel in mine, i would like to change mine to a bare bottom as well.
 
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