Goldfish And Sand

[Myuu]

On another forum, I asked about using sand in goldfish tanks because I don't like gravel very much. Anyway, I might get a new tank from somebody and I'd put my goldies in it. But it really doesn't make sense to me that I can't use sand in my goldies' tank. My current goldfish tank is already part sand (but my gravel has covered most of it ~__~) and it doesn't seem to be bothering them. The other forum said that the sand irritates their gills when they route around in the substrate, however, goldies are though fish. I mean, cories and loaches also bottom feed and suck up sand. I just wasn't sure, and wanted second opinion ~___~

 

[PhoenixsDeadAgain]

I use it in my tank no problem. I have a Comet and a Calico Fantail.

 

[Tokis-Phoenix]

Sand is actually one of the best substrates for goldfish as it is the most similar to the type of substrate found in goldfishes natural habitat (mud/silt) and they enjoy it greatly, it is also easier to keep clean than gravel and goldfish seem to have a great time rooting around in it looking for food- i have had sand in my goldfish tank for almost 2 years now and have never had a problem with it and my goldfish.
I believe the sand harming goldfishes gills is largely a myth- if you don't wash the sand clean before putting it in the tank it will make the water very cloudy and this in the extreme's can harm fishes gills, however this can harm any fish and not just goldfish- but if you wash the sand properly before putting it in the tank, then you won't get loads of cloudyness in the tank for days on end and the fish will be absolutely fine .

 

[Myuu]

Ah, thank you. I was pretty sure it was fine, but I just wanted to make sure. ;3

 

[Tokis-Phoenix]

Glad to help . Just make sure that when you get sand for the tank, don't get marine/coral sand (as this will really mess with the tanks ph), just get ordinary silica/blasting sand or children's playsand etc .

 

[PhoenixsDeadAgain]

I think you'll be amused by their reaction to the new sand. My comet has a riot bouncing around the tank sucking up sand and spitting it out all over everyone and everything

 

[black angel]

sands fine...carp are fine with silt