beach sand

[PirateFish52]

I am on vacation in Florida.

Any thoughts on beach sand and putting it in a new tank?

I was thinking of bringing some home for my 75 when I set it up.

Thanks all.

 

[smmscott]

i would be worried of any pollutants that could have washed up on the sand or from nearby hotels/resorts.

 

[BrunstuckyJoe]

I'd saw run it in a rubbermade container after rinsing it really well....may be filled with lots of bad stuff....

 

[BrunstuckyJoe]

If you see any live sand dollars.....scoup them up for me....

 

[MeVsTheWorld]

Like stated I'm not sure it would be safe for your tank. Maybe you could swim out with a mesh net and scoop some up. Just watch out for sharks:worried:

 

[serpentman]

Beaches are the ocean's protein skimmer. The wave action removes the protein waste, pollutants, etc. and deposits on it on shore which usually makes beach sand high in crud.

With that being said, I would go out as far as you can wade and collect sand from there. Mind you, it will be filled with critters and stink to high heaven by the time you get it home. Basically, you will have to treat it like uncured rock and wash it thoroughly. However, it should be perfectly good to use.

 

[DiscoReefRover]

word to the wise It is illegal in most cities in florida to take the sand from the beach and you could get a good slap if caught ...

 

[raynist]

Steve Pro on the Pittsburgh forum has sand he shipped up from the Bahama's, it is really nice stuff and I think he has a lot left.

Much cheaper than buying it bagged.

--Ray

 

[slapshot16]

What about some rock that is washed up on shore? Cure it and make it live rock? Is it safe? Is it legal?

 

[lriddell]

raynist
sent pm

 

[serpentman]

From what I recall, collecting rock is a particular no-no. I have heard horror stories about people that collected beach rock and got in big trouble. At the end of the day, the Dept of Wildlife claims you can't determine the origin of the rock so it is considered from the ocean. Not trying to fear monger but just thought I would pass along. Based on what I have seen personally and heard, FL doesn't play around.