Simple Questions...

[JONP]

I have a 75 gallon freshwater tank with an underground filter primarily to produce current as it doesn't do much for actual filtration. I also have an Emporer 400 bio-wheel back hanging filter. The bottom is covered by rock as you can see in the photo.

As you can tell the rocks become very mossy I was told that sand is a cleaner way to go?

I want to put sand on the bottom as apposed to the rock, but I have the following questions:

Can I still use the underground filter system? (it can't pull through the sand can it?)

Is there a certain sand I should use for African Cichlids, Loaches, etc?

How difficult is it to clean?

Is there any one thing I should be aware of?

Thanks for the help!

 

[Bud8Fan]

I'm no sand expert but I do know that switching to sand will not eliminte the algae growth.

You probably have the lights on too long, high nitrates or both.

 

[soggysandwich]

I'm no sand expert but I do know that switching to sand will not eliminte the algae growth.

You probably have the lights on too long, high nitrates or both.

agree, and you can not use a undergravel filter with sand

 

[Dr Joe]

It will depend on the filter plates, most have wider slots for better circulation with gravel and sand will fall right thru.

Sand actually takes longer to maintain too.

Best to correct your problems you have first, like Bud8Fan said (and to much food?).

Coarse round sand particules are best for most fishes.

Dr Joe

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[JONP]

Thanks for the help. I think I'm going to do a major cleaning today, I'm also taking to fish back to the local store, I've had all my fish for about 1 1/2 years and they are getting bigger and maybe getting a bit crowded.

 

[Fish Eat Fish]

Thanks for the help. I think I'm going to do a major cleaning today, I'm also taking to fish back to the local store, I've had all my fish for about 1 1/2 years and they are getting bigger and maybe getting a bit crowded.

Thats a very good idea. You are one of the only people ive ever seen with an overstocked tank who is smart and mature enough to fix the problem.

Its good to finally see someone with under 100 posts whose not

Welcome to being a fish keeper...not a fish killer

 

[ziggy2]

What are you parameters? It looks like you may have a nitrate problem. What is your water change routine?

 

[JONP]

So here goes, I took back two fish (silver skats), and removed all my existing fish. I pulled the babies rebuilt my main tank as well as my (25 gallon) for the babies. Now I'm feeding less, leaving my light on less, and using some proactive cleaning processes. So take a look and tell me what you think?

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=117147

I have a Emporer 400 back hanger as well as two water jets running from my underground filter.