Sand bed depth...

[Verbalkint]

Ok, bit of confusion here.

I've heard go with a deep sand bed (4" plus).
I've heard do NOT go any deeper than 2 1/2"

Whats the deal?

Setting up a spare 55G for SW / Reef.
What's the story on depth of the sand bed?

I'll be using sugar grain sized Agronite sand mixed 50/50 with Fiji Pink (just a TAD Bigger, 1mm i think)

 

[RMPD109]

I can not be sure of the reasoning behind what you have been told , but many have fear of a DSB. A DSB will host denitrifying bacteria which will convert the nitrates into gasses to remove them from the system. The 4 inches or more is required since this bacteria needs anaerobic conditions to thrive. Many people have the concern that in a DSB these gasses will collect in pockets and release at once and be harmful/fatal to tank inhabitants. I have heard these stories but have yet to find any definate studies about theses gasses killing off a tank.

IMO the DSB is worth it because of the denitrification abilities.