Dirty sandbed

[Tinadno]

So I have a thin sand bed and despite doing 1-2 water changes a day it still manages to look like it's not clean. I vacuum the top of the bed and even mix the sand up to avoid nitrate build up and vacuum again. And also algae or diatoms start forming a layer on the sand. I have a koralia powerhead but it's not really picking up the dirt and I feel like it's too powerful for my discus. I'd rather put an air pump instead but that still doesn't solve my problem. Any suggestions would be great! I can provide pics if needed thanks!

 

[Supergummy]

Did you wash the sand off? Does the bag say that it was washed or or chemically rinsed?

 

[Tinadno]

I didn't wash it off but I've had this sand in my tank for months

 

[Supergummy]

I have no clue...

 

[venymae]

Well diatoms usually come and then go. I've heard people have luck with shrimp, but with discus I'm guessing they might just end up as snack food...you could also try a snail. Worst thing that could happen is nothing. Hope someone else can help you more.

 

[gilpi]

I also use sand. I think sand does not hide poop very well since it's so fine and dense but that could be a good thing since it makes me clean it more often.
You change water twice in your discus tank?

 

[Krogman]

I have sand as well and it shows debris quick. Beware that snails can poop, a lot, which will dirty the sand but it is easy to vacuum.