Want to change up my substrate.

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

Anderman

Polypterus
MFK Member
Jun 8, 2007
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I use Home depot play sand in my stingray aquariums but it's not heavy and always gets into the overflow boxes at the top of the tank and into the socks. When I wash the socks it always leaves sand in the washing machine. My question is what is a safe heavier sand or heavier substrate that is still safe for the rays but will stay in the tank and not end up in the socks. I called the lfs and they suggested aragonite but I read that wasn't safe for the rays as will change the ph. This topic has been covered on many threads but sure wished we had a stickie in the stingray forum.
So what are people using these days in their stingray tanks. "No", I don't want to go bare bottom as the rays love digging in the sand.
 
I use the larger grade Estes Ceramaquartz, comparable to the old 3M quartz. Its heavier and larger than general finer sands.
 
Unipac gravel.
Heavy enough not to get sucked in to my canister and doesnt stick to rays

Helps if I have my inlets a good 6 inch above the gravel though.
 
pool filter sand buddy, Estes sand they speak of.... was impossible to find, seems to be a USA product or something, unless its called by a different name in Canada, but i called all over Regina and Saskatoon with no luck, but pool filter sand is very cheap and way heavier
 
Maybe I will have to give the pool filter sand a try as you can buy it in Calgary. No sense getting anything shipped as the freight is just as much as the product.
 
I've literally been asking myself the same question as i've always used play sand.

Not sure if you've already got it covered but i use a dustpan to remove the sand from the tank - works a treat every time.

Update us if you get a new substrate - i'd be interested to hear your review on a new product coming from play sand
 
I would say you could prob use just about any small gravel as long as there isnt any sharp stuff. I use caribsea torpedo beach. You can always just go to caribsea.com and see all the different options and then try to find something in your area.

Imo the torpedo beach is a perfect size. Heavy enough to stay on the bottom, dosnt stick to the rays, they can still dig in it, and its not loud like gravel.


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