Sand options?

[bbarrett2868]

I am in the process of planning a new SW setup. I found an article online that mentioned Southdown Play sand as a cheap option for substrate. I also found an article on Reef Central from 2001 that said that it was no longer going to be manufactured. Does anyone know of any other choices that won't break the bank, or is the sand bought in fish supply stores the only option. I was planning on implementing a deep sand bed filtration, but at approx. a dollar a pound and a 50 gallon tank..... Please let me know what your recommendations are. Keep in mind, that I have run a few successful fresh water tanks in the past, and this is my first salt water. I am open to any ideas.

Brad

 

[ocellaris06]

A couple of months ago, someone mentioned that using sand from Home Depot was OK in this forums. But make sure no chemical in it. Of course, there was an argument about that!

 

[law086]

Brad,

There's many debates about what sand is OK and what sand is not. Some say silicate sand is bad, others say it's fine (I tend to agree with those who say it's fine). I used Southdown in my tank, but I believe you're correct in that they don't manufacture it any longer.

I believe there's another white sand called Kolar that I may try.

So, in summary, if I was in need of sand and couldn't find Southdown, I'd likely try Kolar (or Kolarscape or something - it's at Home Depot).

Ron

 

[drummereef]

bbarrett2868,

[welcome]

 

[poppin_fresh]

I have tanks that have done tanks in both aragonite and silicate based sands. I have never seen a problem with either.

My only comment is that most play sand is yellow looking, unless you can find the Kolorscape white play sand. It says "not for use in aquariums", but after a good rising its fine.

 

[bbarrett2868]

I've check with our local home depot, and they don't carry that brand of sand. Has anyone heard of Country Stone sand? Its labeled as a Premium White Play Sand. It seemed to have somewhat large granules. The sand that I looked at in the pet store seemed to be so fine that it was almost a powder.

 

[poppin_fresh]

I have seen the Kolorscape stuff here at an Agway, which is home/farm supply type place. Normal play box type, white sand should be fine. Yes, some of the expensive fish store stuff is very fine, you could mix and match to save some money.

 

[bbarrett2868]

I haven't heard of Agway. Has anyone seen this stuff sold in the Minnesota area?

 

[lamphere]

Walmart carries it. I just got 300 lbs for my 125 for less than 20 bucks. 3.06 a bag.