I need multiple opinions on different substrates for african cichlids. The tank will be a 75 gallon with either a sump or canister filter or both. I like the looks of sand, but dont have experience with cleaning it and have concerns with it getting into the impeller of the filter and messing it up. Also, after around a year, how do you deep clean sand?
I also need a substrate that is not going to cloud water for days and days, and will also need to be able to buffer the ph and keep it up to keep the fish healthy and as colorful as possible.
lighting will be LED so that algae doesnt get out of control in between cleanings (once a month)
So do I choose, sand? If so what kind? pool filter sand? aragonite?
Do i get crushed coral? What brand?
regular aquarium gravel? What brand?
pea gravel?
Thank you for looking and giving your input!!!!
I also need a substrate that is not going to cloud water for days and days, and will also need to be able to buffer the ph and keep it up to keep the fish healthy and as colorful as possible.
lighting will be LED so that algae doesnt get out of control in between cleanings (once a month)
So do I choose, sand? If so what kind? pool filter sand? aragonite?
Do i get crushed coral? What brand?
regular aquarium gravel? What brand?
pea gravel?
Thank you for looking and giving your input!!!!