refugium substrate

[ajm]

Im almost done w/ my 20L build and its now down to what substrate for the refugium (10g). Ive got both crushed coral and pool filter sand laying around so im trying to decide between the following. I was thinking the crushed coral would be better for ph buffering?

crushed coral + 5lbs live sand

pool filter sand + 5lbs live sand

 

[clsanchez77]

The pool filter sand is likely silica sand, I would not use it in the tank. Instead find a low spot in your yard and fill it.

The crushed coral buffering capacity is near nil. The pH in the aquarium has to be dropped to unsafe levels for the buffering capacity to be significant. That is why CO2 is required for calcium reactors.

However, the crushed coral and live sand will be an excellent substrate for detritivores to seek habitat and reproduce and that is what you want.

I have a small 4 gallon refug with a mix of sand and rubble.

Chris

Chris

 

[plummike]

I agree dump the pool sand in your yard. I like Miracle Mud, Live Sand, and some Rubble.

 

[clsanchez77]

Miracle Mud, that is the other stuff I have in my refug. I mixed it up with my sand. Chris