Removing old gravel

[NEON]

When i first set my tank up i added a natural fine gravel but then changed my mind once the water was in so i then added larger white gravel over the top, but now the tank has been running with fish for a couple of months its started to get dirty and attract algae, also with me moving stuff around to clean the two colours of gravel have mixed and i now think it looks messy. So would it be ok for me to remove the top layer of gravel and add more of the same colour?

 

[Dubby]

I would recommend that you do it in stages. perhaps half the tank first, wait for a week or 2 and then the rest. This will reduce the chances of a mini cycle.

 

[thecichlidaddict]

I have done it before without a problem. As long as you have a decent filter running, then yo ucan go ahead and make the switch. Much more water is forced through filter media then can go through the substrate, so this is where the strongest colony of bacteria is anyway. Just don't clean the filter too soon before or after changing the substrate.

 

[NEON]

Ok thanks
Will i need to get filter wool to help clear the fine particals that will be disturbed with me moving the gravel. Its 13 uk gal tank so i think the tank will get a little messy!!!

 

[Inchworm]

Hi NEON

Keep in mind that the beneficial bacteria that reside in your gravel live in the top 1/2 to 3/4 inches of it. By removing it, you are taking away an important part of your bacterial colony.

If you have a lightly stocked tank, or a big filter, this will pose less of a problem than if you have a heavily stocked tank. Either way, be sure to monitor your water paramaters and do frequent small water changes as necessary until your normal level or bacteria is restored.

If you have or are considering getting cory cats, remember that they should have a fine gravel (or sand) bottom to avoid damage to their barbels.

If you're thinking about starting another tank, or know someone who will be, you could jump start the cycling process by using this instead of throwing it, and all that great bacteria, away.

 

[NEON]

I have 3 guppys, 2 platys, 5 neons.
I dont know how to put that at the bottom of the page.
Thanks for ure advice.

 

[thecichlidaddict]

Will i need to get filter wool to help clear the fine particals that will be disturbed with me moving the gravel. Its 13 uk gal tank so i think the tank will get a little messy!!!

Filter floss certainly helps to polish the water, but everything will settle down again either way. Doing a water change after will also help clear things up a bit.