Can I use lake beach sand in freshwater tank?

[Iris135]

I live near Lake Erie, so I was thinking free sand! But would it be safe to use in a small freshwater tank? I was going to boil it. The sand has a lot of crushed zebra mussel shells in it. Will that effect the water parameters?

 

[Super_Blueberry]

I used sand from Lake Superior in one of my 10g's. Boiled it, then dried it before I used it. It's a little dark for my taste, but didn't cause any problems. Just beware that like with anything natural you put in you tank, there is a certain risk involved.

 

[gilpi]

I would be worried about using it. Do you like the way it looks or is it more of a budget thing?
I bought a 40 lbs bag of pool filter sand for $11.99 and I have enough sand for a 55g and a 30g. and looks real nice.

 

[Iris135]

I think I have already decided against it. It's more of a convenience thing. I'm starting a new 8 gallon. I'm going to use mostly Shrimp Stratum and leftover EcoComplete. I just wanted a small amount sand for one corner and I didn't want a big bag of leftovers.