Is Switching From Gravel To Sand Hard?

[konor123]

Hi i would like to know if switching from gravel to sand is a good move? I'm wanting to do it because i've heard that it is better for africans and I have seen tanks with sand as substrate and they look absolutely stunning.

How would I remove the gravel?

Would I have to remove the fish?

What kind of sand would I use? ( Is silica okay?)

How do I clean the sand?

Thanks.

 

[laura120381]

hi there,

1. use a clean bowl or glass of some sort to scoop out the gravel

2. nope!

3. playsand is good and relatively cheap. if you buy 'aquarium sans' be careful to read the pack to make sure it won't alter pH etc

4. pop the sand in a large bucket and fillwith water. swish it about and drain off the water and all loose silt. repeat this until the water is clear. the sand can then be put in the aquarium using the same method as you used to take the gravel out...only in reverse!!

hope that helps!

L

 

[doresy]

Better to use coral sand for africans

 

[KittyKat]

Or a mix of coral and play sand

 

[konor123]

I've read that when putting sand into your tank you should turn your filter off otherwise it will break.

Is this true?

 

[Malawi MaD]

Could cause damage to the impeller yes, so its best to turn them off

 

[KittyKat]

Could cause damage to the impeller yes, so its best to turn them off

+1, and you don't want the sand blocking your sponges: it's a pain to get off!