Please help my LS is binding together to make little balls

[budbuddha]

I need some help, my LS in my tank is binding together to make little balls. It doesn't seem to be causeing problems but it doesn't look good. I don't know if it is a water chemistry problem, and if it is i would like to correct it.

60 gallon
10 gallon sump
scimmer
cannister filter
bio ball drip system
50 lbs LS
i am not really sure what the total rock is but i think 80 lbs

260 watt PC

1.022
Ph. 8.2
Nitrite 0
nitrate 0-25

 

[quarryshark]

How deep is the sand bed? Sounds like you need some critters to sift the sand. Some Nassarius snails, pods, worms and Small brittle stars will do this.
Also improved water movement will help, maybe adding a powerhead or 2.

 

[budbuddha]

I already have a sand sifting star, 3 scarlet hermit, and two dove tail snails. Also i already have 2 power heads and my canister filter also stirs the sand. Any other good ideams who be much help.

 

[XXFirefighter]

you need more snails and alot more hermits !
I have like a dozen hermits in my tank and they cruise everywhere.

Try a sand sifting goby?

 

[klam]

If your calcium and alk is off it might be creating limestone in your tank.

How old is your tank?