sand swap?

Lincutis

New member
Years ago we had a live sand mix and swap. Everyone that had live sand brought a cup full of live sand and mixed it all together and everyone who brought a cup got to take a cup. This was to get a diversity of bacteria from all the sources we could. Anyone think that might be a good idea for the old skool swap?
 
I would think this could cause more issues than actual bacterial diversity. If you were to do a sand swap, I would look for donations coming from tanks that are well established without nuisance algaes. Otherwise, you will be introducing more than just bacteria into your aquarium.
 
I got some brand new sand I would give you a scoop of lol I did see walmart has playsand that is seashell and aragonite made in Texas by the gulf.
 
I got some brand new sand I would give you a scoop of lol I did see walmart has playsand that is seashell and aragonite made in Texas by the gulf.

Before or after the drilling rig incident?
 
Actually, I've studied the potential detriment from some of the nasties I've found on a few of the local frags I've gotten in the past. ;)

Can't say enough for pre-treating frags before they go in the tank!


If I could ensure I wouldn't also get red bugs, red flat worms, etc... I would be all over this. I did it years ago with another club.
 
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I can see this group has studied extensively on the benefits of bacteria diversity.

Bacterial diversity in what matter of context? Are you talking about the possibility of adding new strains in order to create a more realistic biofilm that may aid in waste and nitrate assimilation? I've read a few journal articles on it. However, I haven't seen any extensive study on reef aquariums demonstrating a need for bacterial addition. If you wanted to try to diversify bacterial populations, you may want to look to the so called additives that attempt to do so. Theoretically, they may add to your biodiversity.

Personally, I would stay clear of sand swaps for various maladies that involve but are not limited to pestilence involving worms, fungus, or bacterium.
 
I remember the sand swap. But would have to agree there is probably more risk than it's worth. I would only do them with trusted sources.
 
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