substrate question

[Chugger]

im in the process of changing some of my tanks over too sand, because i feel i have a better chance this way of breeding the Parauchenoglanis guttatus, that is my new project, and i think my hemichromis will like it, what is the best way to keep the sand looking nice and clean.

 

[tjudy]

Are the catfish sand sifters? If so, then they will keep the sand clean for you. Hemichromis may dig, but I do not know if they will turn the sand over while searching for food like a Pelvicachromis will. I would use a thin layer in any case, to prevent anaerobic pockets forming in the corners and under tank decorations.

 

[Chugger]

im not sure if there sand sifters , but by there mouths i would guess yes and person breed a close realative of these catfish, the african dwarf giraffe, by accident, and she had sand the cats breed under a decoration, so i thought it might be my best bet

 

[retro_gk]

I have sand in all my tanks and all I have to do is vacuum the surface once a month or so to get rid of excess mulm. Far easier to maintain than gravel, IMO.

 

[Chugger]

thanks, hey where do i get the natural sand for a freshwater tank, im using black in one that i just set up,,but would like too use natural in the others

 

[element]

thanks, hey where do i get the natural sand for a freshwater tank, im using black in one that i just set up,,but would like too use natural in the others

I get my sand from the home depot i use a product called "natural sand" it's $5 for 50 lbs. i've heard others use pool filter sand .
-Jason

 

[Chugger]

thanks man, that will save me money

 

[retro_gk]

See if they have any bags that are torn or otherwise open. I got ~100 lbs for free because the bags were open

 

[Chugger]

nice thanks , guys for all the help