I'm considering setting up a large predator tank. I'm kind of on a budget and have another thread on heating haha. So I was figuring how much sand I would need and it comes out to be about $600! Just for sand!? I guess I'm spoiled with my small biocube. My question is could I use a sand that is not marketed towards aquariums? As long as it was natural, and contained no additives, what would be the problem? I know I may get some "are you crazy" replies, but I thought I'd ask :fun2:
Other Sand Options?
- Thread starter Sundog101
- Start date
dave.m
Active member
Using "found" sand means it hasn't been safely sourced or cleaned in any way and you won't know what sort of pollutants it may contain.
You don't want silica-type sands like sand-box or construction sand as these will feed massive diatom blooms. You are best to stick with aragonite sands, but you don't need super fine grained sand. You can get larger gravel sizes, 0.25" - 0.50".
Predator tanks generate a lot of waste so whatever kind of sand or gravel you use you should include a clean-up crew and be prepared to vacuum every week or two.
Dave.M
You don't want silica-type sands like sand-box or construction sand as these will feed massive diatom blooms. You are best to stick with aragonite sands, but you don't need super fine grained sand. You can get larger gravel sizes, 0.25" - 0.50".
Predator tanks generate a lot of waste so whatever kind of sand or gravel you use you should include a clean-up crew and be prepared to vacuum every week or two.
Dave.M
ezerasurfr
New member
A CuC would be a complete waste of money IMO. Most predatory fish will munch them right up. Just do a shallow sand bed and stir the bed during maintenance. Getting a fish that can hold its own that lives in the sand would be more productive.
acsamples79
New member
while ive heard of play sand causing diatom blooms from being silicate rich, ive never had an issue. in a 220, 300 and now a new 300 im setting up, i paid $3 for 50lbs at home depot. never caused me any issues
