air bubbles in new sand substrate

G

GCL

AC Members
Jun 30, 2006
217
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0
Western Ct.
I am setting up a tank with a little less than an inch deep pool filter sand substrate.
I did put some egg crate in the tank and it is covered with sand-no open spaces in it.

When I moved my stones that I placed in it, trapped air bubbled up. Then I started to poke around in the sand and got very fine air bubbles being released.
I plan to add Trumpet Snails to the tank to help with keeping the sand "stirred up".

Should I keep poking around and try to release as much air as possible?

Anyone know if this is a "normal" occurrence with using sand? And if it's anything to worry about?

As always, all feedback is appreciated!
 
I would poke and release it. I normally add about an inch of water then slowly put the sand in to minimze this. Then stir after a couple of hours before filling all the way.
 
The only time you need to worry about sand bubbling is after it has been in your tank for awhile. If you do not "stir" it occasionally anaerobic pockets can form - not a good thing. I use the python to keep mine stirred w/o any problems at all.
 
If your sand bed is just 1" deep, the formation of anaerobic pockets is unlikely to occur; it is more dangerous in deeper sand beds. Anyways, stir the substrate every 2 weeks and/or use the Malaysian Trumpet Snails that as you said, are great for sand stirring.
 
If you have the MTS do you need to stir the sand? I have sand in all my tanks and may need to get some of these to keep it stirred. I am all for anything to make maintenance easier.

Thanks,
 
MTS can do a great job stirring the sand. But you can also stir it at least with your fingers every 2 weeks; unless you have planted tanks. In that case, leave all the stirring job to the MTS.
 
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