converting to a DSB

[richg315]

Well since i found what appears to be a eunicid worm in my tank i am taking the liberty of swapping out my crushed coral for a DSB while in search of the worm. As far as the conversion o really dont know where to start. First off, my main worry is the fish and coral i currently have in my tank. Its a 29 gallon with a pair of clowns, pep shrimp, and assorted lps corals. its been up and running for almost a year. The main question is what type of sand to use. Kolorscape or Saltwater specific sand? do i empty my tank into, say, a rubbermaid 30 gallon tote and then do the conversion? Any help would be appreciated!!!

Rich

 

[drummereef]

I did this years ago when i needed to completely overhaul my 40g system. I setup a quarantine tank for the livestock. Moved all fish/inverts to the quarantine first. Then I removed the live rock and placed it into a rubbermaid container with a heater and adequate flow. You want to use the water from your tank to fill the QT and rubbermaid for the live rock. Drained the rest of the tank water and took the tank out for cleaning. Once it was ready I added the sand. I used a plastic bowl so the water I pumped back in wouldn't disturb the sandbed. I'd pump back the water you used for the rubbermaid after the sand goes in. Just be quick with the rock transfer so you don't have any die-off. You shouldn't have a cycle, if you use dry sand, and take precautions with your live rock. Might want to leave the fish/corals in the QT for 24hrs just to make sure, but probably not necessary. Helps to prep your new sand first by rinsing it thoroughly. Having it ready to go will help with a timely changeover.

I used a Caribsea Fiji Pink for my DSB. It has a grain size of 0.5-1.5mm. You can use a little oolite, sugar sized, sand if you'd like too.

Here's a guide for QT's if you haven't read up.
http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-10/sp/feature/index.php

 

[Henry Bowman]

Whatever kind of sand you purchase, make sure you rinse it very well before adding it to your tank. There will be dust galore that will cloud your tank for days if not rinsed (RO Water).

 

[MisterAtlantis]

I have been thinking of using a DSB and found the following information ,particularly sand size,very useful
http://www.reef-eden.net/DSBs.htm
Andy

 

[acronuts]

Have you done your research on the best substrate for your needs? I would definitely get rid of the CC, but DSB is one of the hardest substrates to switch to or from.