changing substrates?

[allaboutfish]

in my 5 gallon betta tank can i just switch the gravel with sand or do i need to do anything?

 

[Mark1092]

I switched gravel with my old fish once, and he seemed fine with the change. Not sure about sand though, I've heard it can trap gas pockets or something... But then again there's always some kind of downside. Just take the fish out when you do it, because he won't be able to see anything.

 

[allaboutfish]

he would have to come out bc id empty the tank (keeping the water in buckets) outside.

 

[rich311k]

No reason to keep the water, might as well start with fresh. I would remove the fish as well. Rinse the sand very well.

 

[allaboutfish]

would i have a mini cycle? if so should i keep some old gravel at the bottom of the sand?

 

[hippy guy]

i was actually wanting to do this in my betta comm. 10gal. what type of sand would be best? also i read putting some gravel in your filter in panty hose or somthing to help deal with the mini cycle issue ...

 

[allaboutfish]

play sand

 

[rich311k]

As long as you do not touch your filter you should not see much of a cycle.

 

[allaboutfish]

ok. thanks.

 

[rich311k]

You can always fill a stocking with some of the old gravel and set it in the tank as some insurance.