Sand sifters for newbs?

[lpguy]

Im just beginning my plans for a FOWLR 55gallon tank. I was wondering what are some fish that really clean the sand?

 

[LittlePuff]

What fish are you putting in the tank?


Kim

 

[lpguy]

was thinking bout putting some wrasse, clownfish, and one of those gobies that pairs with shrimps. I want a peaceful tank.

 

[LittlePuff]

There are some gobies, snails and starfish that will sift sand or at least keep it stirred.


Kim

 

[mogurnda]

There's a lot of debate as to whether you want your sandbed stirred or not. According to one mythology, the infauna, like worms and small arthropods do all the stirring you need, and any sifting fish or stars you add will disturb the process. May be true, I just don't know of any data to support any opinions on the subject.

 

[Gealcath]

A sand sifter starfish will clean out the DSB of a 55gl in about 3-4 weeks, so a large sand sifter starfish would need supplimental feeding.