Hi guys, I have a fully setup tank and I really like the look of sand. I just want to get some feedback on it.

1.How hard is it to vaccum?
2.Does it look dirtier than rock?
3.Do you ever have to replace it?
4.Will it mess my filter up?

and lastly, will doing this mess up my tank at all? How should I go about putting the sand in an already setup tank? or can I even do it? Thanks guys for all the help!

Sand is very easy to clean once you get the hang of it. It's basically a case of not putting the vacuum vac too close to it so you suck it up.

Depending on the colour of the sand will really determine how dirty it looks. Dirt will show up more on a light coloured sand and dark

If you keep it clean, you won't have to replace it for ages, if ever.

If you are using filters that have intake pipes attached to the side of the tank then sand will get into your filters. However, if your filters are good quality than the sand won't cause any problems. I can't speak for cheap filters however.

i have also been considering this change but have been hesitant for the same reasons...

i have heard you can mix coral sand or something with normal sand?
what is the difference and/or benefits?

Thanks OFL.

Also, will the play sand from say Wal-Mart be the same as the sand at the fish store. The price in NOT even close. Will I just have to clean it up good?

Will I lose any beneficial bacteria by switching to the sand?

I use a sand in both my tanks. One batch came from the aquatic store because it is black. My white sand came from the garden centre. I am not aware that play sand will cause any problems. However, it is always best to ask about it where you get it from and see what they say.

I shouldn't worry about the beneficial bacteria. If you got healthy biological filter then you've got nothing to worry about. You will always get beneficial bacteria growing on surfaces such as gravel and rocks, but it certainly isn't going to have a detrimental effect on your tank by removing the gravel.

play is usuable for your aquarium but it does have its down side. it will have to be washed thoroughly before you put it into your tank and you will still have a fine silt floating in your tank for a while. another option is silica sand sued for swimming pool filters. it is a little more expensive but is a little coarser and come pre cleaned (i would still rinse it thoroughly before putting into the tank) and is still cheaper than sand bought at the lfs .

as for the possible damage to your filter if you have a quality filter as ofl stated then there should be no problems and i also have no experience with the less expensive ones.

what about mixing it with coral sand? ive heard others on here use it

biancawinter wrote:


If you are keeping any fish from South America then I would steer away from any kind of coral as this can raise your pH. And since most South American fish prefer an acidic water, you don't really want increase alkalinity

OFL wrote:


x2

okay then, thanks guys

Well I did it. It is Midnight and all of the sand is setteling. I got 3 40 pound bags from wal mart and it took A LOT of cleaning, but I got it done. Im letting it settle then i will try and re-orginize all of my decorations. This is going to be a looong night. Pics will come soon hopefully!

Congrats Mapes4... I can't wait to see it!