can we talk about sand?

[mellowvision]

this is sort of a vivarium topic, but I think the fresh water diy forum is the best spot, because of all the experienced tank builders here...

I am building a beach set up, that will have sand rising above the water line. I am going to used tiered slabs of stone on an angle to contain the sand and create a semi natural hill. I am worried about the sand above the waterline in terms of water circulation and drainage. I don't want the sand to smell like a beach, and don't want to build something I can't maintain. the goal is easy cleanliness.

I've seen one article that showed the filter return bringing water to the high ground, so that it kept the sand moist and continually in a state of leeching back into the water column. I'm assuming this is the way to go, but haven't seen any tanks set up this way.

do you have such a tank?
do you think this is a good method?
do you have thoughts or experiences with sandy beach like vivariums you think I should consider?

also, in an example like below,
is it ok to return the water UNDER the sand, like a leeching field? or do I need to return it higher, like a waterfall?

 

[legendaryfrog]

Sounds like a good idea, although I dont think it would be very visually appealing, seeing all that sand.........I mean, I have a reef tank, and seeing the sand from the side is just gross. Theres just so much fish poop and algae that gets collected in it

As for your questions, I think it would be okay to return the water under the sand. Also, to prevent any buld up on the sand, I'd try to keep it moist at all times

 

[vampie]

I'd be worried about the sand compacting.

I've always set mine up with the usual slope method.

 

[mellowvision]

the picture is misleading, the stone would not reach the front of the tank... so it would be like a typical corner slope, but with the stone inserted like shelves, both to give some support to the upper sand and to widen the beach. I'm not so worried about sand under the top shelf compacting, more about the sand stagnating at the upper levels.

 

[red devil]

you may want to put some holes in your stone shelves if it is possible to let the water drain

 

[mellowvision]

I was thinking that, but also wondering if they would actually act as drains, or just plug with sand.