sand question

[ozzy_19877]

Can i use pool sand for a saltwater tank?

I was thinking of using it and letting it cycle for a month and then add live rock, can it be done?

 

[protectandserve21]

I'm pretty sure that timeneverfreezes uses pool sand in his tanks. PM him.

 

[BIGgourami]

just make sure it's silicate free

it won't work to buffer pH and hardness

 

[lchockey14179]

I'm think about using pool sand for my SW tank too. I'm almost positive that it is fine..

 

[Otherone]

Odds are it will be an algae bomb - commerical sands like 3m pool sand, playground sand and general purpose construction have added silicates for prolonged durability as Sand, being organic, erodes.

Best bet is sterile sea sand as it comes from the oceans with no added silicates.

 

[nonstophoops]

Odds are it will be an algae bomb - commerical sands like 3m pool sand, playground sand and general purpose construction have added silicates for prolonged durability as Sand, being organic, erodes.

Best bet is sterile sea sand as it comes from the oceans with no added silicates.

+1

 

[Morganj2]

I've used it plenty of times with no problems in sw/fw. Only downfall is it really doesn't help to buffer the water. I've also never had an algae problem in the tanks that I have used it in.

 

[EastBay]

It can be used. But when you put the sand in, add the live rock at the same time for the cycle. If you cycle the tank first and then add the rock, you'll have to cycle the tank again to account for the LR.