Sand substrate

[meili.harrison]

I have a 46 gal bowfront with gravel right now and I am thinking of converting to sand substrate. I like something like the 3m Black Sand - I know it cost a lot more than pool filter sand, so it will take me a while. Thing is, I want a planted tank, nothing fancy, light to med amount of low light plants. I have read that some people use flourite or peat moss under the sand, do I really need to do that?

Also read how toxic gases and bacteria can build up under the sand, and you're supposed to stir it really well so this does not happen. Would this be any better if I used the 3M sand vs. regular pool filter sand? Or maybe silica sand is better? If I have to stir it and it has peat moss underneath, wouldn't that make a crazy mess? Also, with all the plants in the tank, wouldn't it be hard to stir real well?

Lastly, I have angels, 2 plecos and a few cories in the tank. How can I make this transition smoothly without harming the fish? Take them out? Leave them in? My tank is fully cycled and I intend to put a chunk of gravel in a hose and leave in there for a week or 2.

Sorry, I have lots of questions!! Pls know that it is only because I'm only trying to be a good fish keeper... :)

[mattmartindrift]

play sand is the worst for compacting, so i've seen at least. My brackish tank I have to constantly stir to prevent anerobic spots, it's a gravel/play sand mix.


I use S-grade 3m sand in my FW tank. It's great, fairly uniform in size which allows for gas exchange -- eliminating anerobic spots.

Pool filter sand will be the same, fairly uniform in size so that anerobic spots won't be as much of ani ssue.

[StereoKills]

You can also toss some MTS in the tank and they will take care of moving the sand around for you.