Might be using sand as substrate, any suggestions?

I

icecubez189

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Feb 15, 2006
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i've been debating whether to stick with the Carib Sea Eco-complete or use sand. the only plants i was considering were the java moss and java fern (will they work with sand?), nothing elaborate. and at $18 a bag versus possibly spending only $5 for sand, i might go cheaper route. btw, this is for a 10G betta tank renovation coming up soon.

people have used play sand purchased from Home Depot or Lowes and since im going there to get some silicone sealant, might as well get sand too. i was wondering if there is a particular brand or type to look for.

filtration will be 2 internal filters w/adjustable spray bars. the filter are not very long, so hopefully, they can be positioned high enough from the sand not to suck any in.

thanks.
 
here's my 20gal long with play sand. java moss and java fern are attached to driftwood. i don't think there's a brand name it just says play sand on bag. the sand probably differs from place to place so maybe you can find an open one and check it if you like it first before buying the whole bag.

20gal.jpg
 
I just switched about last week.

Best one imo is sillica sand. All the other sands (play sand) i found was ugly coloring.

The sillica sand looks white at first. But once you get it wet, it will look more natrual tan, and mix it with a few natrual colored river pebbles and it will look like you took it out of a lake.

Also, play sand is dirtyer then sillica sand since it contains a bit of clay, and full of random sized grains.

A good mid current, and strong filter would keep it nice and clean.

And sillica sand is cheap...about 10bucks for 100pound bag. Way more then you need.

Just dont breath it in unless its wet, stuff can do harm to you.
 
Guys:

I was just at a aquatic plant group over the weekend and one of the old timers turned me on to something that he's successfully used in his planted tanks.

Its jet black in color. Its called "coal slag" and is used in sandblasting. Its very close in texture to the eco complete but of course doesn't have the nutrients.


Its available from building supply places. The 12/40 size probably works the best. Costwise it is 12.49 for a 100lb bag.

I'm picking up a bag this weekend and replanting a tank. I'll tell you how it goes.


Kevin
 
i'll look out for that sillica sand. i know how tough it is to rinse regular play sand to get it clean, or close to it. the easier it is to clean, the better. i think sand in general looks great in an aquarium.

i might be biting off more than i can chew, 100lbs bags? jeez... i hope they have something smaller. btw, how many lbs per gallon will i need for a 10G tank in order to achieve at least 2-3 inches of substrate?

grizzly, be sure to post some pictures! i'll be posting picture when my betta tank is completely renovated.
 
Haha, yeah 100pounds is the smallest.

I managed to only use about 20lbs for about 1inch of coverage in my 30gal. Didnt think i needed anymore.
 
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