a little advice on my sand

[tgriffin]

I am in the process of cleaning up my tanks that I recently purchased and have my sand sitting in one of the aquariums covered by a little water. I noticed today that there is about a 1/4" of dust looking substance on top of my sand. I was wondering if I should try to get this out. I am assuming so, and was thinking about trying to wash the sand, but didn't really have any good ideas. Any one care to give me some pointers.

I really appreciate all the input and help I have recieved from you guys.

I look forward to joining your club and coming to the Feb meeting.

Tyson Griffin

 

[alkamar]

Here is the process I used.

1. Get a food grade or salt 5 gallon bucket
2. Put enough sand in the bucket to fill it 25%
3. Rinse it out real good with a water hose (may be fun in winter)
4. Pour the clean sand into a clean bucket.
5. Repeat as necessary until you have cleaned all the sand.

 

[alkamar]

Oh, I almost forgot. You will not want to use that process if you have live sand.

 

[tgriffin]

Yup...That's the problem, it's live sand. I am thinking bout doing that method with some salt water.

I have a little overkill on sand right now. I probably have enough to have 4-6" of sand in my tank. What is a good depth for a reef tank?

Thanks

 

[alkamar]

It is a matter of preference. Some folks go with a D.S.B (Deep Sand Bed) and others like just a few inches. There are even some that go bare bottom, but I personally think that sand looks better. Look at some reef pics and see which you prefer.