Sand...Please help

[Clairel]

I may be getting a Juwel 180, and was thinking about putting sand in it, instead of gravel.

My question is this, as sand has salt in it, and gravel doesnt, do i need to put anything else into the water to get rid of this?? As i am wanting it for Tropical fish.

Im sorry for the really stupid question, feel free to laugh your ass off at me

C x

 

[black angel]

As far as i'm aware sand doesnt have salt in it.
You can save lots of money by buying play sand but this i think needs more washing.
I bought a bag of sand from my pet store and it was really expensive.

I'm sure others can help you more.

 

[OohFeeshy]

No, sand doesn't have salt in *looks bemused* where did you get that idea from? Just wash it real well, its pretty dirty.

 

[The-Wolf]

sand taken from the beach may contain salt
sand brought in shops don't.

Claire this topic may help you.
http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?showtopic=71597

 

[Clairel]

Thanx guys, i told you it was a dumb question.... sorry )

C x

 

[OohFeeshy]

sand taken from the beach may contain salt
sand brought in shops don't.

Claire this topic may help you.
http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?showtopic=71597

[snapback]913688[/snapback]​

Well, true, but judging by how filthy the sand probably is, it isn't a good idea. And you'd look a bit of a prat stealing sand from a beach

 

[CluelessScot]

i think that taking sand from the beach is illegal? remember once a guy getting introble "borrowing" sand at christmas time fr sitting his tree in...

 

[spanishguy111]

Sand isn't as good as gravel because:

Its too tight for water to flow through and makes for a much thicker anaerobic layer

Due to the above doesnt augment biofiltration well

Also due to the above can release nasty sulphuric bubbles if stirred to harshly

Also harder to clean than gravel


Sand is BETTER because: Its usually more pleasant for bottom dwellers such as corydoras, which very visibly enjoy themselves thoroughly in sand

-If its fine sand it doesn't pose the risk of a sharp edge like some gravels

-looks nicer hands down than gravel does




just be aware of these things before you choose. With sand, I'd suggest not going deeper than one inch, just to prevent a heavy anaerobic layer. You'll also want thicker coarser pieces of sand so you can atleast use a small low speed syphon to clean it out.

 

[Clairel]

I think i will stick to the gravel thanx guys......

C x

 

[Dubby]

In my opinion I prefer sand for the following reasons:

Easier to clean the poop just sits on the top and you can easily siphon it out
My plants love it
Looks better
My fish love it too

I used to have gravel and have changed over to sand a couple of years ago and will never regret it!!!

 

[paulioo]

I changed from gravel to sand as well and i'd never go back to gravel now.

I think its pretty easy to clean. Just hover the syphon about 1 inch above the sand and it picks up all the fish poo.

Paul.

 

[BrookeLea]

Yep..I love my sand and so do my fishies. Never going back to gravel! I'm even thinking of switching ALL my tanks to sand...

 

[black angel]

Another good idea to do with sand is every now and again swirl your finger through it to stop it compacting, or get the trumpet snails.