Sand substrate?

destined_love7

destined_love7

Aquariaholic
Sep 27, 2007
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I will be getting a new 30 gallon tank at the end of the month! WooHoo! Anyway. I've been looking around at some of your tanks and got to thinking. I really like the way the tanks look with the sand. But that got me to thinking. I've never had sand so I know nothing about what it would require. So if you don't mind, I would like to ask a few questions.

What sort of filtration would I need? Is there a particular kind of sand that I should use with the ADFs and Corys? Would I use the same vaccuum tool that I use for the gravel? Wouldn't the sand just get sucked up? I'll probably have some kind of snails as well. I want some that are pretty but won't take over the tank. Any suggestions there? Any other cleaners I should consider?

Thanks in advance for those of you that take the time to answer. I can't wait to get it going.
 
My research has found that African Cichlids love sand (mixed with crushed coral, even better!), not sure how ADFs and Corys would do.

Unlike regular "rocky" substrate, sand takes a little more effort when doing tank maintenance. I have a Python and what I do is remove the front part (plastic thing that you put into the gravel substrate to suck up the poop) and use the end of the hose to pick up the stuff. The suction power of the hose will suck up the bad stuff while leaving the sand in place. The key to this is to not have the hose too close to the sand or else it will be sucked up.

Filters: I personally run two HOB filters. I turn them off when doing the water maintenenace and wait a while after i'm done cleaning so it can settle before starting them back up.
 
I see. Thanks. That's what I was wondering. It will be a freshwater tank (I don't know if that matters). I'll be transferring my Serpaes, Bloodfins, Gourami, ADFs, and my Cory. Will also be getting more of each (except for the Gourami...I can't go through that again). I'd like to end up with about 7 of each, even the ADFs.
 
bump didy bump bump some one should sticky that video its jus so great!!
 
RedDawg said:
bump didy bump bump some one should sticky that video its jus so great!!
Click to expand...

:iagree:

I'm thinking bout making the corys a lil "sandpit" to play in - this video just answered ALL the questions I would have bugged y'all with!!

It's one thing to have something explained in writing - it's another to see it being done - I've read I dunno how many posts on this and still didn't get it!! Watching this I just went "Aahhhhhhh NOW I get it!!" :idea: :idea: :idea:

Many thanks - my corys thank you!! :)
 
I clean the exact same way as SDRanger. Python with the vac part off works great imo. I use Pool filter sand which I like as it's light but still tan enough to look relatively natural.

As far as filtering, I have a Wet/Dry but if you've got a HOB you can always cut a little bit of pantyhose and put it over the intake to keep sand from getting sucked into the impeller.

Personally, I love my sand. The fish enjoy it, it's easy to plant in, and easier to clean imo than gravel. With sand you definitely know when you've cleaned the tank of all the various crud, plus it will keep you honest on your water change frequency ;)
 
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