Changing From Gravel to sand

[ibassplayer205]

Alright, I have had my current set up for a couple months and I want to change from gravel (the little cloroful rocks) to sand. I have a pair of Pearl Gouramis (want to get more fish soon but i want to change the floor first). What is the difference with gravel and sand. Are there any differences in cleaning and maintaining the tank? And what kind of fish are compatable with sand? Thanks


Seth

 

[heresmike]

I'd say all fish are compatible with sand, and some like it better, like corydoras for one.

Cleaning is a bit different because you just hover the vac above the sand, or swish it back and forth to create a poo tornado! I find that cleaning my sand tank is easier than the ones with gravel. Plus, I think waste gets trapped more in gravel, and with a sandy bottom, it tends to not get trapped and therefore gets sucked into the filter.

 

[QHowes]

Sand can be difficult to work with if you are new to sand. I prefer gravel

 

[daisycat]

We have sand in our new tank and have not found it to be a problem. A good thing to be aware of is to make sure any filter inlets are not too close to the sand or they could suck sand up inside the filter and damage it.

 

[rvm]

Not sure, but I think you have to make sure you stir the sand every now and then as well otherwise gasses can build up in it that will kill your fish. Correct me if I'm wrong??!!!

 

[Teelie]

Only if the sand is more than 2" thick and you have nothing to stir the sand for you like fish or snails that dig.

 

[Mumza]

We went back to gravel after using sand at the advice of our local aqua shop. He wouldnt reccomend it.

Make sure you dont have it too deep. Im not sure why this is, someone else may be able to answer more accuratly than I.

 

[bpb21]

If you're planning on adding sand to a tank (and it sounded as if you are), please take note:
A word to the wise here, or maybe just pointing out the obvious; when adding sand to your tank (presumably with water still in it) be sure to wash/soak the sand and add WET sand to your tank. I'd soak it in some water taken from your aquarium. Then I'd put it in a cup or some small container and actually place the sand on the bottom of the tank. Don't just rip open the package of store-bought-specially-formulated sand and dump it directly into your tank and expect it to settle to the bottom on it's own. You'll get a cloudy mess which you'll sorely regret.
And before you think, well duh, no one could be that stupid... )
(luckily, no fish were harmed in the above incident, but that's an extra hour & 1/2 of tank cleaning I'll never get back).

I have a very understocked tank, with moderate to strong current, and I find the sand substrate is working fine. Just depends on what type of fish you've got.