Deep Sand Beds

[forextrader]

Do sand sifting critters such as snails, stars, etc disrupt the deep (low oxygen) layers of sand? Does anything disturb that level of sand naturally? Would such minor disturbances cause anaerobic bacteria problem converting nitrate to nitrogen?

 

[ssgtgonzo]

You actually NEED some sifting of the upper layers...but you do NOT want the bottom layers distubed. For that reason nassarius and ceriths are ideal

 

[mahogue]

I have read that infauna that we find in our aquariums get down 1 to 2 inches. Bacteria below that.

 

[forextrader]

How about mini brittle stars? Worms? Copepods? I was about to get the cerith snails this weekend. Thanks for the help, guys!

 

[elegance coral]

You don't need to worry about critters disrupting the denitrifying process. Even if you got in there and completely mixed up all the sand, the oxygen gradient would quickly be reestablished, and denitrification would resume. About the only way you're going to shut down the denitrification process, for any meaningful length of time, is by dumping a bucket of bleach in the tank.

 

[el aguila]

You actually NEED some sifting of the upper layers...but you do NOT want the bottom layers distubed. For that reason nassarius and ceriths are ideal

+1 also add small conchs, spaghetti worms, plus some types of minature brittle stars to your list. These inverts will cruise your sand bed and help keep it from becoming a nutrient sink.

 

[forextrader]

Awesome! Thanks guys... I was thinking of cerith snails, mini brittle stars, and bristle worms.