What is Live Rock and Sand

[jcarlilesiu]

Can anyone tell me what exactly live rock and sand is?

 

[Fluff]

Live rock and live sand is rock and sand that has been colonized by beneficial bacteria. That bacteria helps to break down harmful nitrogens in your tank. Any rock can become live. But, most commonly the words liverock are referring to rocks/sand harvested from the ocean and they already carry beneficial bacteria as well as a host of other critters as bonuses. Stars, snails, shrimps, worms, etc.

 

[jcarlilesiu]

so does that mean that eventually you would be able to have full grown star fish and worms from the live sand? Or would they die off, you know like how in fresh water tanks you all of a sudden have snails but they always stay tiny.....alot but tiny lol.............yes i'm easily amused

 

[Fluff]

The sand doesn't hold as many critters as the rock does. Mostly worms and pods. But, no. Normally the starfish you find don't get as large as the ones you see for sale. And, most times you won't ever see the starfish, just a few legs sticking out at night.