Post by jocie1976 on Apr 25, 2015 4:24:53 GMT -5
This note will cover the basics of sand and a couple of varieties that are commonly available.
Start with the PROS:
1. Can compact leading to areas that lack oxygen. These areas eventually release hydrogen sulfide – a substance that is extremely toxic to fish.
2. Some fish enjoy making nests or homes out of the sand substrate.
3. Fish with delicate barbells (such as corydoras catfish) also prefer sand.
4. In general gives a very smooth look to your aquarium.
And the CONS:
1. Somewhat difficult to clean as the small particles often get vacuumed out of the tank along with the waste.
2. Particles of sand can become trapped in the filter. Under gravel filters generally cannot be used with sand.
3. Dirt and waste really show up in light-colored sand.
4. Sand is also susceptible to compacting.
Adding sand to your aquarium:
1. Gather what you need. Sand, buckets, water source, bowl.
2. Wash the sand you are going to use. Fill a bucket about a quarter way full and run water through until the water runs clear.
3. Using a bowl, add sand to your tank. Fill the bowl with sand, lower into your tank, and gently dump it out of the bowl.
4. Wait for the water to clear and enjoy.
Sources and good websites:
www.ratemyfishtank.com/articles/99
www.aquariumadvice.com/forums/f12/step-by-step-how-to-add-sand-to-your-freshwater-aquarium-178282.html
Start with the PROS:
1. Can compact leading to areas that lack oxygen. These areas eventually release hydrogen sulfide – a substance that is extremely toxic to fish.
2. Some fish enjoy making nests or homes out of the sand substrate.
3. Fish with delicate barbells (such as corydoras catfish) also prefer sand.
4. In general gives a very smooth look to your aquarium.
And the CONS:
1. Somewhat difficult to clean as the small particles often get vacuumed out of the tank along with the waste.
2. Particles of sand can become trapped in the filter. Under gravel filters generally cannot be used with sand.
3. Dirt and waste really show up in light-colored sand.
4. Sand is also susceptible to compacting.
Adding sand to your aquarium:
1. Gather what you need. Sand, buckets, water source, bowl.
2. Wash the sand you are going to use. Fill a bucket about a quarter way full and run water through until the water runs clear.
3. Using a bowl, add sand to your tank. Fill the bowl with sand, lower into your tank, and gently dump it out of the bowl.
4. Wait for the water to clear and enjoy.
Sources and good websites:
www.ratemyfishtank.com/articles/99
www.aquariumadvice.com/forums/f12/step-by-step-how-to-add-sand-to-your-freshwater-aquarium-178282.html
