ZeoSand vs. Pool Filter Sand

mfield4

AC Members
Jul 11, 2010
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Baltimore, MD
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Mike
I am thinking of setting up a Malawi Cichlid tank; have a 30 gallon long sitting in my garage that I am planning on using. There is plenty of work to get done before I reach the question of which substrate to use (re-finish a dingy stand and canopy, paint my background, etc.), but I wanted to get your thoughts.

I think I want to use sand, I have seen two that are relatively inexpensive in a pool supply shop in my area. Zeosand and regular pool filter sand. Is there any benefit to either type of substrate in a cichlid tank?

Also, do you think an AquaClear 70 AND 50 are sufficient for this setup?
 
I know nothing about zeosand, but I've got pool filter sand in 2 of my tanks and love it. I will eventually be converting the others to sand most likely, and will be using pool filter sand if I do that too. It looks nice, it cleans easy, and I like the size of the grains. I've used play sand in the past and hated it. This has been a MUCH better experience for me.
 
ZeoSand is a refreshing, green-colored zeolite. This high-purity, natural zeolite offers a unique three-dimensional-honeycomb structure and rough, pitted surface. ZeoSand’s crystal structure, irregular shell, and high surface area make it a highly effective trap for fine particulates and ammonium ions.

Natural zeolites were formed millions of years ago when alkaline salt water altered deposits of volcanic ash.

http://www.zeoinc.com/zeosand.html
 
Great info Loachguy! you would almost think you could throw some in a media bag and use it in a filter.... oh wait, thats what it is :P
 
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