Switching to sand...

[King_Cat35]

I am currently running a 29 gallon tank with normal gravel substrate, with a pictus catfish (adding more fish soon). I would like to redo my tank with a more natural look, which is why I would like to switch to sand.

I have heard as long as you rinse it thoroughly you can use pool filter sand, which I believe is cheaper then sand from the pet store. Any truth to this?

Also I am aware that some sand will raise PH levels, and some will not, just curious as to what the case is for PFS.

I would like get an aquaclear50, will this filter be ok to run with sand?

Lastly how well does sand do for live plants, and since my pictus catfish spends most of his day laying on the bottom will the sand bother him, or will he like it better then the gravel?

Any advise is appreciated, thanks!

 

[Drew vest6]

Yes, pool filtration sand is much cheaper than crushed coral or other select purpose substrate. It will not buffer ph though, you will have to raise/lower it with specific products