Sand or Gravel

[aqua_holic]

Were it me, I would do a 72x36. The extra 2 feet in length is big.

 

[TigerFusion]

Peace River Gravel

Here is a pic of my Weather Loach peaking out of Caribsea Peace River Fine Gravel.

 

[dragon14]

Very cute TigerFusion!!!

 

[dezcookies]

Hi guys.

So i will be making a transition into sand as well. I would just like to ask if sand is okay with and internal power filter? I have a 39 gallon tank and a decent sized internal power filter. What would be the optimal sand to go with? I assume it would be the largest diameter for the sand (play sand?) so it doesnt get kicked up as often.
By having larger sand particle size, does that mean it is easier to clean (less sand loss?).
Also should i take the gravel vacuum head off and just use the tubing for cleaning or can i leave the head on still and try the swiling motion as aqua_holic mentioned?

You bring the end of the hose or tube to about a quarter inch above the sand and make a swirling motion. That will stir up any waste which will then be sucked out.

many thanks guys

 

[CoronaBlue]

I leave the gravel vac head on, don't think you would generate enough current if you took it off.

 

[Coursair]

My tips for a Sand tank.
1. If you have an HOB filter use foam over the intake. That will prevent you getting sand into the impellers.

2. If you have a long intake, you may want to shorten it a little bit if it's too close to the substrate.

3. Rinse well

My CaribSea Tahitian Moon black sand tank. You asked about plants ? All real. I use root tabs in the tank every four months for my crypts and swords. Mute the music if you want, it was my first attempt adding music. Old vid

http://youtu.be/aptmdICahvM


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[dezcookies]

My tips for a Sand tank.
1. If you have an HOB filter use foam over the intake. That will prevent you getting sand into the impellers.

2. If you have a long intake, you may want to shorten it a little bit if it's too close to the substrate.

I have a internal power filter. any tips on that?

 

[Mebbid]

Depends on the design. If theres a sponge that water passes through between the impeller and the intake then it's just fine. Just don't sit the filter in the sand.

 

[dezcookies]

I have this design.


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[aqua_holic]

You should be fine - the motor looks to be on top, after the media.

 

[dezcookies]

You should be fine - the motor looks to be on top, after the media.

Thanks.

 

[aqua_holic]

You're welcome. In HOB filters the motor comes first, which is why it can be a problem with them.

 

[dezcookies]

Just wondering if this sand will be okay to use.

https://www.aquariumproducts.com.au/catalogue_products.php?prodID=4371

it says that the sand particles are approx 0.5mm-1mm
which is approx 0.01968 inches - 0.03937 inches

CaribSea - Instant Aquarium?


will it be kicked up and sucked up easily?

 

[aqua_holic]

The moonlight is the finest, followed by the sunset gold. I know they list them as the same diameters but IME they are not.

From there the rest will stay put pretty well.

 

[dezcookies]

so youre saying the tahitian moon sand (not moonlight sand) should stay nicely at the bottom since it is supposed to be coarser. just clarifying.

 

[aqua_holic]

Yes the TMS will stay put.

 

[Coursair]

I have TMS ( the black). It settles pretty quickly for me. It is fine grained, but fish and plants love it. With some help from ferts.


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[Dom11]

Gravel is easier to maintain and also keeps beneficial bacteria better


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[Coursair]

Gravel is easier to maintain and also keeps beneficial bacteria better


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If you read this thread, a bunch of us will politely disagree with you.




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[Dom11]

If you read this thread, a bunch of us will politely disagree with you.




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And? It's my opinion and I think gravel is a lot better. Yes sand looks more natural but I still prefer gravel


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