ideas for a new substrate required

[ccebr]

As you can see from my signature, my tank is dominated by great diggers. This is interesting to watch, but the sand was constantly being thrown about. It was always in suspension clouding the water, causing the fish to flick, and after a filter service, the foam was completely clogged with sand, rendering the filter useless and with about 4" of sand in the bottom of the filter, probably damaging the pump.

I have since removed all the sand, the tank is a lot clearer and the fish aren't scratching anymore. However the tank looks so bare, even though the bottom and back glass have been painted black.

I am not a fan of gravel due to all the detritus being trapped in the sediment, and the fact you need to gravel vac so frequently.

I have been using sand for a number of years but have never kept fish that throw it around as much as these do.

I need some suggestions for a type of sand that will stay at the bottom, not be too sharp, and look natural.

Thanks

 

[carsona246]

I just moved to sand, and honestly I think gravel is easier to maintain. I definatly like the look of sand more, but all the gunk stays on top. I've seen river stones in a tank before and it looked pretty nice. Definatly wont solve your dissaproval of detris getting inbetween the substrate though.

 

[ccebr]

i think pebbles might be thrown about which could possibly crack the glass.

any types of sand anyone?

 

[szymon328]

pool filter sand? i havnt tried it but ive read alot about it and the grains are big enough to sink in the water rather easily

 

[5Spot Junkie]

I use a .8 PFS. Grains are pretty big and sink right away. Just make sure you wash it good and all the fine particals will be removed.
I try to stay away from gravel personally, I hate when the fish p00p gets to the bottom of the tank then you have problems cleaning it all out. Just my opinion.