Quick sand question

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo

Aqua-Mom

Feeder Fish
May 26, 2022
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Thinking about getting some sand for my 90 geo tank but I don't want the fine sand that blows everywhere. When it comes to mesh size, the higher the number the larger the grain or opposite? Not to much clarity from Google
 
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Thinking about getting some sand for my 90 geo tank but I don't want the fine sand that blows everywhere. When it comes to mesh size, the higher the number the larger the grain or opposite? Not to much clarity from Google
Pool filter sand would be fine and doesn't blow around easily. As far as the grain size I believe that's how that goes for grain size.
 
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Oh ok. I was looking at some red garnet sand it said 40-80 mesh size. Just not sure of what that means as far as size

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I could be wrong but I think the OP wants to use that particular sand/color and wants to know if it's on the heavier side or will it stir up.
 
Oh ok. I was looking at some red garnet sand it said 40-80 mesh size. Just not sure of what that means as far as size

View attachment 1546638
If you are looking at specifically garnet sand, the smaller the number the larger the grain. So 40-80 mesh is somewhat finer (getting closer to powder, usually 100+ is like powder). So ideally, you'd want something under 40 mesh.
 
#20 grain silica is the typical grade for PFS. Looks great, easy to vacuum, easy sifting for the fish. Geo's would love it!
 
Last edited:
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the big kahuna the big kahuna you nailed it I probably wasn't clear enough, ty

Hao Hao thanks that the info i needed.

Using and fx6 and definitely don't want sand sucked into the filter. Looking for something darker that the pool filter sand
 
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I just bought some garnet sand that is listed as 30-60 grit, 50 pounds for $30 Canadian (currently about $22US) at a discount tool place called Princess Auto. Two bags on separate occasions, one was slightly less red than yours and one with very little red at all. Mixed 100 pounds into the 250+ pounds of pool filter sand already in the tank and it darkened/coloured the substrate very nicely.

Maybe not the perfect choice if the reddish colour is the goal, but...at 75% lower price...:) It's a very dense, heavy sand that doesn't stir up into the water column.
 
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