silica sand question

[smellslikefish]

i have some pool filter sand that i want to use in my bichir tank.
i know that ive read that its good but the guy at the pool supply store
said it was to sharp for aquarium use. its safe right?
just wanted to be sure . thanks mfk

 

[velanarris]

It's too sharp for aquarium use, (if you're not an experience aquarist).

 

[cichlids _killer]

i have some pool filter sand that i want to use in my bichir tank.
i know that ive read that its good but the guy at the pool supply store
said it was to sharp for aquarium use. its safe right?
just wanted to be sure . thanks mfk

PFS/silica is safe for aquarium use...about the sharp .are you worried that will scratch your glass( aquarium) ?? if so any sand when you cleaning the glass/acrylic and not becarefully will make a scratch ..
btw 3M color quazt T grade is more sharp then PFS and its fine with aquarium use ..so dont worried

 

[Tropical Dude]

There are different types of sand. Take a bit and rub it between your fingers, if it hurts and makes little cut marks, it would probably do the same to a fish; but, if it feels a bit round it is perfectly safe.

That is a general rule and it is up to you to decide what is and isn't safe for your fish.

@ cichlids _killer - He is afraid it will cut the fish in his tank, mainly scaleless bottom dwellers.

@ velanarris - There are many people, beginners and advanced, using pool filter sand. It is generally play sand that is too fine or sharp. And have you felt of some "aquairum" sand? Some of it feels like tiny razor blades compared to some pool filter sand.