Sustrate question

[Crash607]

Hey everyone got some questions on substrate for my new 220 gallon tank. I was originally planning on buying natural red flint sand for my aquarium. I will be keepin freshwater rays and some cats. When I went to my LFS they told me not to buy sand because it would cut the innards of my rays if ingested, they also said it would ruin my canister filter. I aee so many people on here keep thier rays in sand and with canister filters and they seem fine. What would you guys do? Anyone have this experience?

Thanks,
Tyler

 

[dr_sudz]

Make sure the sand doesn't contain silica sand. Then with the filter just make sure the sand is in and settled before running your canister. make sure it is well rinsed too.

 

[Crash607]

no it doesn't only natural red flint

 

[knightmare1968]

I have black sand in my tank and as the fish get bigger my pumps got louder as the fish stir the sand up it is getting into my filters and ruining them.... I wont do sand again