Sand Substrate

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
S

Sakon

Feeder Fish
MFK Member
Oct 1, 2007
35
0
0
USA
I like kuhlii loaches, but they like sand. I have absolutely no idea how to run a tank with sand, as I've always had gravel. So, I have questions. Feel free to add in anything you feel I should know. I'm not going to immediately convert my tank, but I'd just like some knowledge and precautions.

Remember, I only know how to run a tank with gravel, so be specific. Thanks!
  • Is sand easy or hard to clean? Any specific way to clean?
  • Would algae eaters have a hard time?
  • Do I need a specific filter? Seems like sand would get eaten by the filter.
  • How much sand should I get (per gallon, inches high, etc.)?
  • Do plants work with sand?
  • I saw some red-colored sand, would this be good? Note: kuhlii loaches were kept in this during there week's time in the store, and seemed to like it as I watched them.

Anything else you wish to add is appreciated. Thanks!!! :stingray:
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Simply disturb the sand frequently to prevent it from getting compact. Hoover the vacuum just above the sand (not too close) and it should siphon out the detritus visible above it.

2-inch deep of sand should be good enough in my opinion. Plants will be okay in the sand. Just watch out for the sand getting compact which can choke the plant roots and kill them.

The color will not matter however I still prefer black and white. Wait for sand to settle, by the way, before turning on the filters.
 
i too prefer B&W. i use 2bags of eco complete cichlid substrate to every bag of tahitian black moon sand but its no good for you unless you was african cichlids. all black also looks good
 
I use malaysian trumpet snails in my sand tanks to keep the sand stirred up and prevent gas pockets
 
Thanks, everyone! Oh, and the red sand I saw was "crushed coral."
I have a 30g, but I don't use a siphon like that. I find them hard to use, because you have to shake them to get the suction going. I hate using siphons because they are frustrating.
 
Sakon;1185745; said:
Thanks, everyone! Oh, and the red sand I saw was "crushed coral."
I have a 30g, but I don't use a siphon like that. I find them hard to use, because you have to shake them to get the suction going. I hate using siphons because they are frustrating.
Click to expand...

buy the python kit, you hook it up to the sink and it starts itself when you turn the water on. very easy
 
Ugh, I can't afford that right now. Siphons suck. Maybe I shouldn't keep fish anymore. I mean, what's the point if I can't clean their tank good...
 
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