sand grain size for high flow - need suggestions

[jlinzmaier]

I'm planning a 420 gal DT and I need some suggestions on the sand bed. Since SPS keepers usually have such a high flow I'm hoping someone can help me decide on a sand grain size. The outlets from the CL's will be 1.5 in in diameter and they will all be putting out about 1200 gph. They will be approx 4-6 in off the surface of the sand bed and will alternate on and off with OM 4-ways.

Will I create a sand storm if I try using something like carib sea 1-2 mm particle sized sand??

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+10741+7326&pcatid=7326

I really want to keep sand sifting gobies and other critters that do better with a smaller sized substrate but I'm not sure what the limit is with that much flow near the sand bed.

Any thoughts or suggestions??

Jeremy

 

[JER-Z]

that is the sand i used. It holds up pretty good to flow. My tank has a ton of flow. I used the special grade and left it alone for a few days.

I ended up with 2 barespots/holes from the Tunzes. I filled in the holes with crushed coral

 

[ReefJunkieOK]

I think that sand should be fine. It is very close to what I have. The worst mistake I made when I set up my first sps tank was to use "sugar-fine" oolitic sand. What a PITA!

 

[jlinzmaier]

Thanks for the quick replies!! I think I'll set up the tank with about 12 in of water, add the sand, then turn on the CL's and see what happens. If it creates a sand storm and I need to siphon it out and get a larger grain size, the tank won't be fully aquascaped and full of water.

Really glad you guys think it'll work out though!!

Jeremy

 

[jlinzmaier]

That's pretty clever to add crushed coral and/or a larger grain substate in front of the outlets where they clear away the sand!!

Jeremy

 

[sps1-2-b]

I made the same mistake as reefjunkie and still living with the occasional sand storm. Not as bad as first due to the bacteria on the sand but I still get sand blowing around. I would use the special grade.