Gravel Vs Sand Conundrum

[catfish4ever]

In the change from gravel to sand I encounter some info, what are the pros and cons of sand and gravel, I heard sand contains lethal gas pockets and that waste always sits on top of the substrate which gives a dirty look... Also what is the best substrate to grow low tech plants in?

Many, many thanks to those who answer

 

[Xzavier247]

Sand, Hands down. Pros- Looks aweomse, Natural, and Plants will take root faster and stronger. Cons- Well, None really. Cloudiness for the initial start. And Cloudiness when disrupted.

 

[RRaquariums]

I had sand in all my cichlid tanks and I loved it I never had problems with gas pockets but have seen a lot of stuff on them happening just never did in my tank.
I had a pretty strong filter so the flow kept anything from collecting on the sand there where a few spaces that had no flow dew to rocks but you would have the same problem with gravel.
Prose of sand.
Cheap, fish seem to really like it, looks very nice.
Cons.
Kinda a pain so syphon until you get the hang of it, if deep enough could potentially creat gas pocket.

Just a side note I also had gravel in my community tanks because it is easer to grow plants in and I liked the river look so both have there own appeal to me depending on the tank.