Sand Question

K

Karmic

I got some pulverized limestone and it just wasn't quite what I was hoping it would be. (The HD at 114 & 377 in Roanoke had 1/2 a pallet yesterday.) It has a remarkable resemblence to kitty litter, but maybe my scoop didn't get a "representative sample". It's not too bad, it's just not as white as I wanted it to be. I have pretty high expectations for a $5 bag, apparently! :wink:

Anyway, I guess I was hoping it would be more like the pool filter sand I use in my fw tank. So, I started wondering what problems there would be with just using pool filter sand. It's very smooth small grained sand. I have had a 3in sandbed in my loach tank for 3 years, with no problems. I tested it with muratic acid back then and it didn't react. I've searched both here and at RC, but didn't find much. I know it won't help buffer the system, but any other issues with it? Maybe if I mixed them together?

Thanks!
 
You might check and see if you like "Beach Sand" from Kellar Farms, over in North Richland Hills. It used to sell for $10 for a 5g bucket full. I used it in my 55g for 2 years, and loved it.

It wasn't aragonite-based though, but when disturbed, it settled quickly.

I don't know anything about pool filter sand, sorry.
 
Pool filter sand actually has very sharp edges that help's trap the "crud", it rounds off after several years of use and becomes ineffective and has to be replaced when used as pool filtration media. Pool filter sand (silica sand) will work but an Aragonite sand would be better for a reef tank. If you want whiter sand, then why not purchase on-line to save on costs? Not sure about mixing the two but would be concerned if the sharp edges would harm any sand shifters if you decide to get any of those.
 
Thanks Guys!

Now that it's settled in the tank a little, it looks better. It just looked pretty gray in that white bucket I rinsed it out in. I shoulda used the blue one!

If I ever get a day off work, I'll go over to Keller Farms. I haven't been over there in a looong time.

I actually have some aragamax ordered, but it's not going to be enough. And I ALWAYS appreciate a bargain!

I'll have to check with some people about the pool filter sand. I've always been told to use that for my loaches and cory cats so they don't wear their barbels down. But I guess they are just rooting thru the top of it, not through it. :?

Thanks again.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top