Deep Sand Bed

[mar-y-sol]

Hi, I was reading a couple of threads and I just wanted some input on this idea. Has anybody tried filling an overflow half way with crushed coral or sand in order to make a deep sand bed. It seems to me like the theory is sound. In most tanks you would have at least 12 inches of sand, this seems to me like it would create ample space for bacteria to change nitrate to nitrogen. I know by creating such a deep sand bed you would also create an enviroment for sulfur production but if the tank is not moved and the sand not disturbed this shouldnt be a problem right.

 

[Rogger Castells]

I've read and like it, there is more detail than just placing sand, like you can't allow light to penetrate the overflow from the top and certain other details, make sure you read the thread thoughtfully.

 

[45commando]

Hi,personally I think that using an overflow for nitrate reduction is like trying to swim against the current.For a deep sand bed to really work you need low flow,very little light & reduced oxygen.An overflow on a standard tank provides the exact opposites of these.I think you'd be better providing an area within a sump to provide a low flow deep bed area.Then if you decide that down the road,you want to change,you'll have an easier time changing the sump,than trying to clean out the overflow area.If you do try the overflow method, then best of luck & keep us posted with your results.Best regards,Darcy

 

[nyvp]

in my sump I have a 12x12x48 area filled with argonite sand with low flow going through it. They call it a remote deep sand bed. Takes 6-12 months to really work well.

 

[Rogger Castells]

Darcy and Joe are right, nothing is going to be better than the real thing, however, for those who don't have the space (40 & 240 gal sumps respectively ) this is a good alternative.

 

[45commando]

You've got a good point there Rogger

 

[jessp]

i've seen quite a few threads of people using 5 gallon buckets full of sand. perhaps that is another possible alternative.

 

[Fish2reef]

I have one on my sump but I did not have space I would definitely try the overflow box method.

 

[rawbomb]

I started my DSB in the overflow about a weeks ago now but I haven’t seen any difference yet. Then again it shouldn’t start working until after about 4 weeks I’ve read. I also have only filled one overflow so far as well but I like that idea.



I am also doing the Benethic zone in my sump which I see as having more of an impact since the space in the overflow I don’t believe is big enough to hold enough sand to make an impact at least on my 250, in my case 40lbs in each overflow.

 

[REDDAWG43]

Anyone got pics of these set-ups?