what sand?

[stevebussard]

I have two oscars, a red pike chiclid and a jack dempsey. My pike developed hole in the head, and while trying to figure out how to treat it I ran accross a web site that said oscars and cichlids in general like to have a 60% or better sand bed. I figured this would work nicely since gravel is a pain to get completely clean anyway. What it didn't mention is any specific gravel. This is where I run into problems. Most play sand is very fine and rather dusty when it's even slightly adjitated, that can't possibly be the sand they were talking about, could it? Does anyone know of a sand that doesn't clound up the tank?

 

[stevebussard]

Thanks for your help! I really appreciate it.

 

[stevebussard]

thanks for your help, I really appreciate it

 

[repair]

thanks for your help, I really appreciate it

WoW you are impatient... you only gave us 4 min.

Never used sand I keep all my cichlids on gravel or a bare tank. As you have found sand is a pain in the butt.

I guess you ment to thank us in advance for our help.

 

[guppy]

I don't like sand,IMO fine gravel works better. Several people say play sand works well but it needs to be washed thoroughly. When I have used sand I put it in a pillow case or a bag made from a high thread count sheet and stick a hose in there to wash it. It works pretty well.

 

[rallysman]

I used play sand it it doesnt cloud the tank if you wash it well enough. looks pretty too imho

 

[Stella]

I love sand and have used it in tanks before, but I wouldn't do it with oscars and other large fish that dig because they can kick it up into your filters where it will wreak havoc on your impellers.

Laura

 

[rallysman]

true, depending on filter placement and tank height

 

[hardb0iled]

I use sand, I believe it provides the most realistic recreation of my fishes natural habitat

The trick is to use pool filter sand, you buy it in different seived grades so you can go fine or coarse and all the grain sizes are similar which means it doesnt pack down - water flows freely through it so you dont get dead spots where nasty bacteria build up. It has been pre washed so there is no dust and its inert. Its the perfect aquarium substrate!!

You can buy it from most pool supply stores

I've had it in my tank for about 8 years without a single problem.

 

[guppy]

To recreate the natural habitat of my bluegill I think I would have to throw in an empty beer can.