Sand

I was wondering how many people actually use sand in thier freshwater tanks. Would u recommend using sand or gravel. And if so what would be some good tips to start?

Comments

Sand Substrate

I have never used anything but sand in all of my aquariums. I currently have both fresh and marine (6 tanks in total). My Parrots...being Cichlids, love the sand and enjoy playing and digging pits, as well as my freshwater clams and 2 bamboo shrimp. It is very easy to clean with my siphon vacumme(sp) as it cleans out nicely but the sand is too heavy to actually get sucked out. As for the sand itself, it can be purchased at some pet stores but is very expensive...I have no idea why. I myself have always gone to a pool supply store here and bought it for 6.50 for a 40lb bag. It works perfect. Call around and just ask for pool filter sand. 1-1/2 bags will put a nice 4in covering in a 55G which is perfect for planting as well. (Learn from my mistake though....always put your rock work in before the sand, if they dig under the rocks...it will cause a cave in and result in busted glass and dead fish.)

Sand

I have a South American setup with Parrots, A green severum a gourami and a couple of kribensis which are the only African fish in my tank lol and a curvicep :) Are the sand bottoms hard to clean ?

sand

hello im new to cichlids but have had tanks my whole life.i usually have sand bottoms and find the look very natural and cleaning is very easy with your water changes.my plants grow excellent! im about to change from community fish to cichlids,killys,or discus.what type of set up do you have?