Sand and no gravel...

[Douglas4701]

I am very pleased with my decision to go with sand instead of gravel... Gravel is icky and nasty and full of sh-t.. Literally... I understand the issues sand can cause if not properly stirred time to time. Fish appear happier too... Especially aratus.

 

[Bubbles0oO]

I am very pleased with my decision to go with sand instead of gravel... Gravel is icky and nasty and full of sh-t.. Literally... I understand the issues sand can cause if not properly stirred time to time. Fish appear happier too... Especially aratus.

Good to hear it! When i switched to sand i was afraid of the gas bubbles too, but if you have live plants and snails it will take care of itself.

 

[TAbruzzi]

how to you remove wastes uneaten foods and such with sand? wont a siphon pull it up?

 

[Dreadz]

how to you remove wastes uneaten foods and such with sand? wont a siphon pull it up?

Don't plunge the siphon into the sand like you would with gravel instead swirl it in small circles above the surface and it will stir up any waste from the surface of the sand allowing the siphon to suck it up without disturbing the sand bed too much.

 

[TAbruzzi]

this is live sand correct?

 

[Dreadz]

this is live sand correct?

I've got no experience with live sand but that's how I hoover the sand in my fresh water tank.

 

[Douglas4701]

It siphons perfectly. I was afraid at first too. I am about to start a new thread about siphons but siphons work just fine. It's easier for me to keep clean. I plunge the siphon into the sand slowly... And it gets everything. Plus check out my siphon thread...