sand or gravel

[aquariumbuff]

I am currently designing a Cichlid tank, I have noticed in my local shop that you can now but sand to put in the tank instead of gravel, is this a good idea, I have seen two colours , grey and sand coloured. I was also wondering which colour is best? When you syphon the water out when cleaning will the sand be syphoned out as well? what sort of depth is needed please

 

[Fishyfanatic]

I use pfs in my tanks. It's a tannish color and I mix it with black sand from the lfs for a peppered look. pfs is cheaper and heavier so it doesn't suck out of the tank as easily. You can choose any color that you like, it's all personal preference.

 

[aquariumbuff]

Hi FIshfanatic

PFS is that Pool Filter sand? can this be purchased from a aquarium retailer?

 

[Fishyfanatic]

Yes, that's Pool Filter Sand. You''ll find it at your local pool supply store. I paid $6 for a 50 lb bag. What size is the tank?

 

[severum mama]

Pool filter sand is a great substrate, I'll second that. Or, if you like the look of the sand at your LFS, that's great too, but it will cost a lot more. CaribSea makes a really cool looking African cichlid substrate if you're interested in that- it's kind of like a white and black sand mix. It looks awesome in a tank and helps buffer up the pH of the water, if you need to do so.

 

[Sicklid]

I use a heavy sand too... I usually siphon the sand by allowing the grains to get "washed" a bit inside the siphon, then by pinching the hose shut I can control the flow and let the sand settle back down in the spot I just sucked it up from.