Switching to sand

[Mcgolg76]

In the process of a fish in cycle and decided to switch from gravel to sand. Main reason is I really like Cory's and also my grassy plants aren't doing do well.
Read the thread on how to make the change, but still have a few questions.

Should I wait till the cycling is finished before making the switch. Doesn't the bacteria live in the gravel?

Can I buy any old sand or do I need what is made for aquarium?

Will my plants be ok?

 

[Mcgolg76]

Oh and my filter is a penguin 150 in a 20g tank

 

[Fett999]

You don't have to use aquarium sand but you also can't use just any old sand. Sharp sand can harm the fish, especially loaches and cory's. it can harm their barbels and even cause them to get infected and rot. There are several other options though, and there are several threads on here about it. Children's plays is what I personally use, as i like the colour and find it good for plants to root into, but there are other possibilities. As for when to do the change I would personally allow the cycle to complete first before changing it. Most of your bacteria will be in your filter with a small amount being in the gravel itself.

 

[Mcgolg76]

Do I need to upgrade my filter