shells in the aquarium

[ram303]

I have read that shells can help to stabalise ph.
is this true, if so would i get any benifit from using shell grit to fill the raised section in my tank

I think i may have stuffed up with my substrate, it could be silica, will be checking it first thing today, I hope im wrong. If it is silica, i dont really want to start over, as my wife would freak out, iv already spent way to much. I also have a space in my sump for a DSB, would this and the space in my tank be enough to keep a stable ph.

 

[ram303]

Anyone!!!!:feedback:

 

[JamieB]

What size tank? what kinda fish you gonna use for stock? then I can answer this better!

 

[Amphiprion]

No, shell nor crushed shell will offer much buffering in seawater. Neither do aragonite sands, contrary to many beliefs. Silica sand is also acceptable. The reason behind all this is due to the formation of bacterial and algal films on the sand grains. This will prevent practically all dissolution by making a micro-barrier that is resistant to water. When all is said and done, sand in our tanks eventually becomes inert for all practical purposes. Another reason why shell and other calcareous materials don't help is because the solubility of calcium carbonate in seawater is negligible. It does buffer freshwater, but not saltwater. You should rely on regular maintenance, such as calcium and/or buffer additions (I recommend household baking soda) to maintain appropriate carbonate/bicarbonate and calcium concentrations.

 

[ram303]

Many thanks to the legend also known as Amphiprion You put my mind at ease THANK YOU............