Gravel for a FO tank?

[lferg]

I have a 36 FW tank that we are thinking of converting to a SW tank. I was thinking of keeping the gravel substrate in there just because of aesthetic reasons and also because I think would rather vacuum it than anything else. It would be an aggressive tank so I couldn't have a cleaner crew and I really would not want a power head. I have two Penguin 200 HOB filters on it so that would stay. My question is, other than looking strange is there a problem with a gravel SW tank? Anyone ever seen one?

[OldManOfTheSea]

lferg, im sorry that your topic not had the attention that it should have had for all issues to what and how one wishes to do some things, always requires some personal views from those who did and done it. This gravel that you have, might not be ideal for a marine tank. You be far better off, being that you have FO, to have aragonite sand. Also, your filter, you would fine it that you be far better off again in having a skimmer. It may be one thing when doing your tank as a freshwater system, you fine that your to have other issues in maintaining a marine tank. As for the type of skimmer your best to look at, im no expert with those HOB. So do ask others for their best opinion to what skimmer may be best for your needs.

Buddy

[darthgoby]

I suspect that gravel would operate very similarly to crushed coral, which is not recommended. I would strongly suggest you go with sand instead. If you have a sandbed, you don't vacuum it or clean it. I at least don't do it to mine.

You'd also be surprised about keeping a clean up crew. Some cleaners like nasarrisus snails will hide during the day and will normally not be bothered by the fish. Also, I have a cucumber which the fish don't bother at all.

[Amphiprion]

What they said. You can certainly use a gravel substrate--it doesn't have to be aragonite or even calciferous. It is generally easier, however, to maintain the finer grained substrates than larger ones--ie sand is easier than gravel.