DSB or SSB?

[albertan22]

So I've read a lot about the advantages of a DSB, but I've also read some negative. I'm on the fence as to whether to plan for a DSB or not. Will you still get some life in your sand with a 1-2" sand bed? Can you keep some sort of sand sifting gobie with only 2" depth?

 

[BCreefmaker]

it really depends on you knowledge of DSB's. they are really good to have, they add lots of filtration if set up right. apparently a proper plenum or "void space" under a DSB is a good way to stop the build up of the bad side of DSB's hydrogen sulphide. for a beginer you best off with a shallow sand bed 3" max. especially if you want a sand sifting gobie, they can disturb a DSB and possibly do tonnes of damage. having a gobie also depends on the size of your tank.

 

[ljosh]

Running a DSB in a refugium tank or even a 5 gal bucket is a good way to get the benifits with minimal risk in the long run.

 

[ludiNano]

How deep should sand be in 5.5 hex refugium to be a DSB? And how to create a void in this?

 

[cd77]

I'm running a DSB (in DT) in two tanks. If you're considering using a DSB, I would recommend reading Shimek's Article on Deep Sand Beds. FWIW, Shimek advises against the use of a Plenum/shelf. In my tanks I haven't found it at all necessary.

To the OP, you want to avoid sand sifters like gobies and starfish if you go the DSB route. And yes, you'll get life of all sorts in a 2" sand bed, but I wouldn't rely on 2" of sand for denitrification.

 

[albertan22]

Thanks for the link!