Sand for substrate

[Missy]

I'm starting to have second thoughts about using a sand bottom in my new 55 gal tank . I had, over the last week or two, convinced myself that this is my best option both asthetically and for the benefit of the fish. I really enjoy corydoras cats and want to get some kuhli loaches and they both prefer a sand bottom. From what I've read about sand, so long as it is moved around regularly it won't harbor bad bacteria. Between the loaches and shutting off the power filter once a week and combing the bottom a bit with a chop stick, that should do the trick. So, today, I went and bought play sand. Then, I went to petsmart for some more decorations for the tank and asked the opinion of the staff on this issue. They said absolutely not. That the sand packs too tight and the loaches won't move it enough. Any ideas anyone. I don't want this to be a disaster but I don't see why sand can't work. The tank will look great with sand and its the common substrate for marine tanks so why can't it work with freshwater. Help.!!! I can't make this decision on my own.

 

[A.K.A Zak]

ok the pet people are dumb, i have sand in both of my tanks, before i moved my yellow lab in my moms 30 gallon, the yellow was only 1 1/2'' big and could easily bairy him self under it, ounce the sand is fully submurged it is quit light wheight and even a guppy could turn over sand, and it looks great!

 

[Eelzor]

What was the exact question you said to them? Did you just say, "Is sand good for a tank?" It depends what sand. What they are probably thinking is your using simple sand from the beach or some habitat. I bought my sand from the actual LPS and they had it on display too. Are you getting your sand from the wild? Or buying it from the store? You said you got "Play Sand". I take it that this is normal sand from a children play pit, just from the store and not used in a play pit. But where did you get the sand from? If not from a LPS or LFS then it may not be the correct sand. Just give me a little more insight so I can help you to the fullest.

 

[A.K.A Zak]

no, i used play sand and it was perfect, just wash it about 30-40 times and your good to go.

 

[Eelzor]

Well, there you go! Even play sand seem fine - never believe lfs or lps unless your a very close friend with someone there. - Find out from your own experience! Thats the best way to learn imo.

 

[Lithril]

Sands ok, you've got 2 options either introduce some malaysian trumpet snails (they're the ones with a conical cone like an ice-cream cone), you won't have to worry bout them getting out of control if you've got some loaches in there and they bury into the sand and keep it turned over.

Or just keep a chopstick handy and poke around in it once a week or so, sands great, really glad I used it in my 30 gal, looks so much more natural than gravel IMO.

 

[Missy]

Thanks Guys . You've restored my confidence. Although, I did buy regular playsand from Home Depot. It said its washed and non-toxic for children so I think its ok to use for the fish.