Gravel vs Sand

[bry1105]

Ive has a 46 gal community freshwater tank up and running for years now, but always with gravel substrate. The tank includes angels, plates, blue rams, and glass catfish. Just curious about sand. Is it a good idea to switch? Pros/cons? If I choose sand, what should I use?

 

[subliminalanarchy]

Sand's fine for all of those fish. Get pool filter sand. It's cheap, easier to clean than gravel, and looks nice.

 

[BigJim]

I like sand over gravel. It's easier to maintain. If you search the forums, there are already a lot of threads about this topic.

 

[Sonomakid]

Sand is the way to go IMO. love sand last 3 tanks have been sand then gravel and then sand. I will never use gravel again.

 

[Marconis]

I like sand over gravel. It's easier to maintain. If you search the forums, there are already a lot of threads about this topic.

As most other topics that seem to be popping up as of late

 

[doogle]

pool filter sand.

 

[Fishguy2727]

Sand is cleaner, more natural, and looks a lot better.

I wouldn't do pool filter sand though. Some people have big problems with the silicates causing brown algae. I use and recommend Estes ultra reef. It is safe for freshwater and looks a lot better. I use either all black or black and white mixed. It looks much better than tan pas.