From Rocks To Sand?

[keri578]

I am switching from gravel that is relatively large, similar to landscaping rock for a house to mostly sand with the rocks as well. I'd like to do a set up that can nurture real plants. What kind of sand should I buy and approximately how much to fill a 50 gallon tank? Is there any recommended kinds for livebearers? Also how do I go about setting it up with sand. Sand in the tank first and then water or vice versa?

Thank you!!

 

[Hollywood1992]

I am switching from gravel that is relatively large, similar to landscaping rock for a house to mostly sand with the rocks as well. I'd like to do a set up that can nurture real plants. What kind of sand should I buy and approximately how much to fill a 50 gallon tank? Is there any recommended kinds for livebearers? Also how do I go about setting it up with sand. Sand in the tank first and then water or vice versa?

Thank you!!

sand in water then tank your lps should sell some aquarium sand, but i used normal play sand from early learning centre in an older tank and it worked fine. In regards to plants- the more the merrier, have a look on the planted aquarium section- should give you a better idea for your tank xx GOOD LUCK

 

[coldcazzie]

Make sure you wash it first! GRab a bucket, fill it about half full with sand, and shove a hose right down in the bottom, then run the water for about 20 minutes, swirling the hose end around in the bottom of the bucket - that way all the crap, dust, etc will get washed out (or at least, most of it!)

Then put in the tank and fill very carefully, preferably with a hose rather than a bucket as it will be easier to control how fast the water comes out.

I have a 55gal and I bought 2 bags of playsand from Argos (that'd be 30kg) and that did the job to a depth of about 1.5inch at the front, 2.5 inch at the back (although that was over an inch of JBL Aquabasis+) so I would think about the same would do you fine. It's good to have some leftover so that you've some to topup with if necessary

 

[BigbruiserAl]

I did one yesterday for my breeding tank.

1. Buy argos,tesco,homebase play sand
2. Empty thw full 15KG in a 20l Plastec bucket fill with cold water and let overflow for 5 full min.
3. Turn off water stir with wooden spoon all and any which way.
4. Empty water carfully so sand does not fall out and fill back up (Repeat x3)
5. Fill with water again and get your hands in there, you want to be turning the sand around from the bottom
6. last fill the water should sit clear.

The whole thing takes about 20-30 there are no short cuts. I placed the sand in the tank filled with water and within 1 hour the water was crystal clear