Plecos and sandy bottom.

[903Herp]

This may sound like a very noob question so please educate me. I love plecos and bottom feeders. I have read that a sandy bottom is best for bottom feeders however I dont always believe what I read on the interewebs. So my question is simply can I or should I have a sandy bottom in my tank with my plecos?

 

[Mlsantos]

I know a lot of people that keep sand most people like it. But I myself keep bare bottom tanks cause it's easier to maintain thank tanks that have either sand, gravel or substrate. It's all about preference and keep in mind also the type of filtration u will have cause sand an canister filters don't go well together. Another thing about plecos u need to know what species u will get cause some of them have a main diet of driftwood like panaque or royal species that require minimal to no protein and some are carnivorous. Water is a big issue as well some plecos don't like hard water, softer is better. Water quality is of upmost importance since they crap a lot so make sure u have perfect water and over filtration. Hope this helps Goodluck!


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[hobby101]

Personally I hated it when I had sand in my pleco tank because the poop get trap in the sand. Lot of driftwoods work better for me. keeps it cleaner too

 

[MilitantPotato]

I prefer it. Easier to keep clean and helps keep detritus out of the tank since it won't be trapped by gravel. Just needs mixed every few months.
Depending on the filtration you use there are precautions to take. HOB filters will need a sponge on the intake to save the propellers, canisters depending on the design may need one too (top mount pumps are fine.)

 

[JayC74]

I agree with the above post. My larger plecs do an excellent job of moving the sand around some with their tails so I really don't have to. Hate gravel with plecs, wouldn't recommend it. Barebottom is clean, but not my thing unless i'm breeding & need flawless water at all times for the eggs

 

[903Herp]

Thank you for the input, I guess I am making the switch to sand.