Sand questions

[Bllib]

1. Is there a specific type of sand that I would need for aquariums or any type of sand will work?

2. Is it ok to use sand if you are breeding fish? I have a pair now with just the glass on the bottom.

3. Once you get the sand does it need to be washed 1st before going into the tank?

4 Is there a rule of thumb for pounds of sand to gallons of water?

 

[Cichlid Delight]

i actullally just started my first sand bottom tank friday... went to home depot and bought quikrete playground sand, 50lbs for 3.49.... poured half into a towel and ran the towel under the utility sink for a while, put sand in tank and it took about 6 hours for the tank to clear, after a day now it looks fine...

washing the sand is a good idea.... so much crap came out when i washed mine.

 

[Kobeclone]

1. Is there a specific type of sand that I would need for aquariums or any type of sand will work? No, any sand will work- but only if it is washed very good. Do not use sand from outside, but play sand and pool filter sand is fine.

2. Is it ok to use sand if you are breeding fish? I have a pair now with just the glass on the bottom. Yes and no depending on the fish. Some fish like to dig holes while raising the fry to hide them etc.

3. Once you get the sand does it need to be washed 1st before going into the tank? Depends. If you buy sand from a lfs, then no. If you buy from a hardware store, then yes.

4 Is there a rule of thumb for pounds of sand to gallons of water? Not really, but I usually add around 1 pound per gallon. My 125 gallon has 130 lbs of sand, and I will put around 1200 lbs in my 1300 gallon pond this summer. I already bought the sand

.

 

[sprwoman1]

Just one other thing - rinse the sand first, no matter where you get it from. Put some into a container, bucket or whatever, mostly fill with water, stir, let settle, dump water, repeat a few times.

 

[brianp]

I can tell you from personal experience that "play" sand purchased from Home Depot will elevate pH. My municipal water is 7.5 and exposure to play sand caused an increase to approx. 9.0. Others have used play sand will no apparent effect. You should acquire a sample of the sand you intend to use, place it in a container of water, give it a few days and see if it elevates the pH. Use as much sand as you feel desirable for your particular setup. Thin layers will be easier to purge of fecal matter and other debris.