Deep Sand Beds

[Ziggy953]

I guess this is why there is such a controversy over the DSB....Like I said I have 3-4" in my tank and fuge...so if that is considered a DSB then I have one.....I say if it works for you then go with it. If you have another way that works for you then go with that!

I personally like the look of a sand bed, not overly deep, but a nice sand bed. I don't mind seeing sand over the frame of a tank at all...

 

[Marc118]

I agree.

 

[jwburleson97]

Does everyone basically agree that you should have nothing less than 3 inches?

 

[Marc118]

Depends on what you are going for, some people run bare bottom tanks with no substrate, and some of us have DSB's and all in between.

 

[lando]

two to three inches is pretty common. I try to stay at the tree inch mark in general.

 

[MT79]

Does everyone basically agree that you should have nothing less than 3 inches?

As Marc said, it all depends on your design and what you plan on keeping. Bare bottom tanks are very successful, and used primarily on SPS tanks w/ high end skimmers and very high water flow. That prevents detritus from building up and reeking havoc. I think DSB's (4"+) are a dying thing due too nutrient issues, etc over time, as mentioned. A shallow sand bed- ~2-3"- looks good and functions well for mixed reefs IMO.

 

[Ziggy953]

Great summary Mike!! I totally agree!

 

[Devilishturtles]

I have my sandbed at around 2 inches and have for....4 years or so now. No issues. I avoided the DSB for the reasons mentioned.

 

[jwburleson97]

Fabulous!!! That is what I needed to hear. I have between 2-3 inches...it varies throughout the tank. Thank you everyone for your advice!