Substrate / Sand ???

[TAXMAN]

Ok all. I have a question.

I am setting up my new 180. I need sand or some type of substrate. I like what Jim Norris has which I think is a small amount of crushed coral. I will use whatever works. I just dont want a DSB. Maybe 1"..

I have read about Silica sand. Sometimes called Play Sand. I am also assuming that this is basically Southdown but cheaper. Can this Play Sand be used? Especially since it's less than 2 bucks per 50lb bag. I also have refugium for this tank that will have about 4" of sand or mud. I will also add all of my sand from my 58 which is 40lbs of Live aragonite. Is that how it's spelled? LOL This sand will go into my tank bed or fuge. What place do you think is best?

So I am asking for your opinions. And I thank you in advance.
Johnny

BTW I have a post in the WTB area for sand or substrate. Just in case you have some you do not need.

[TAXMAN]

ok. That helps.
Thanks

[PeeJ]

But..it is brown.

[TAXMAN]

What is Brown? The Play sand is white. Becuase it is Silica.

[Medinafish]

If you are talking about Southdown/Yardright playsand, it IS NOT silica. It is oolithic/aragonite of ocean origin, specifically the Caribbean. Unlike silica, it aids in the maintenance of stable pH and its generrally round shape promotes the growth of benficial bacteria. Exactly why its perfect for DSBs. Since you aren't interested in a DSB, silica based sand should be fine. I agree that oolithic/sugar fine sand is a ***** to keep in place-my clownfish scatter it everywhere.

[TAXMAN]

Well i guess Silica is too sharp. I dont need any problems with this tank. I may just get some good sand for the tank bottom and place my sand from the 58 into my fuge.

now would putting my existing sand in the fuge be ok, or should I put it in the tank? I am thinking of a small amount of sand and crushed coral for the tank.

[ebayes11]

Wouldn't adding the play sand that contains a lot of silica in it contribute to diatom algae growth?

[GaryP]

Southdown is sold as a "play sand" but is aragonite. Its exactly the same thing as sold in LFS in a 20 lb. bag. If you look at the bag it says not for aquarium use. That is basically to protect LFS who are selling at a premium price.

[PeeJ]

I had silica sand in my 75 before, and it was brown. I tore it out eventually.

[kaiser]

I got a bucket full of crushed coral that I'll sell or trade to You. It's about 50lbs or so.

[RobertG]

Sand Blows everywhere.

oolithic/sugar fine sand is a ***** to keep in place-my clownfish scatter it everywhere.
i have the same problem, Little -----. I think I wont be doing any sand in the main tank. Just crushed coral.. That sand also can get in Mag Flaot & Scratch ths glass! :twisted: Are you saying that this method will have sharp edges? How much should I use in a 240?

[StephenA]

I used a mix of crushed coral and Aragonite in my old 72. It seem to stay put pretty good. I'm not sure what I'll put in my new tank. I'm only going with a 1-2" Sand Bed. I have read that silica causes diatom algae blooms. I would also like advise on what is best for the sand bed. What has worked best?

[Henry]

Silica sand doesn't contribute to diatom blooms. Its a myth. The silica in the sand in found in the quartz that makes up the sand and is not readily soluable at least not in the normal aquatic environment.