Remote deep sand bed, how deep??

[medic6695]

Hi everyone, I am in the planification stage for a remote deep sand bed in a 20 gallons BRUTE container for my 75g reef tank.

My question is: Is there a maximum depth to a DSB??

I have 200 lbs of sand but can I put it all or there's an optimal depth for a DSB?

I've read a lot of threads on DSB but there's no mentions of a maximum depth...

 

[DolbyDinosaur]

Is there a particular reason why you are set on a DSB?

Anyway, my understanding is 10"+ to get any benefit out of the method.

 

[medic6695]

It's a remote deep sand bed in a 20 gallons Rubbermaid Brute.
Since I moved back in July and removed my existing sand bed, about 1.5-2", I'm batteling nitrates at 50 ppm...

 

[Windy2]

I would suggest you do some research. How fine will the sand be? If it is vey fine then a depth of 4+ inches is enough.

 

[medic6695]

I would suggest you do some research. How fine will the sand be? If it is very fine then a depth of 4+ inches is enough.

I've done a lot of research, but there's nowhere a mention of an optimal or maximal depth... I will use clean dried sand.


I've read about all the process and all the layers but again, no mention of the height of each one...

 

[elviraveloz]

I have 6". I use special grade Seaflor sand.

 

[Windy2]

Well if you use sugar size fine sand which is recommended, then 4" is the minimum and you can have 1000 ft. deep if you want.
I have had both an algae scrubber and a deep sand bed in all of my systems. I have had trouble finding sand fine enough for good nitrogen processing. I used "Southdown" on my first one, but now I live in Oregon, I have had to substitute.
Most people do not understand much about sandbeds. I would be careful to take advice from others who have used them, and not listen to those who have not.

Have you reviewed Dr. Shimik's work?