A whole new territory...

[Storm]

I have just scored a used 55 gallon with hood, lights and stand for $50. *happy dance* Some people's junk is truly other people's treasure. I would love to venture into a new "realm" with this tank and possibly have live plants and sand. My question is this...can I transfer gravel from an established tank and place the sand over it? Would this be effective appearance wise and in cycling?

As far as live plants go, I will make my way through the links provided and hopefully come up with some ideas.

Sign me...STILL *happy dancing*.

 

[KarlosFandango]

What a bargain I think that the gravel will end up mixing with the sand and end up on top of the sand. Would it be possible to put the gravel in a pair tights (pantyhose?? in your speak ) and leave it on the sand.

 

[jams.alaskan]

If you are going for the sand look then do not mix the gravel in or put it under the sand.. When you cover the gravel you will most probably snuff out the bacteria anyways as there would be very little to no water movement/O2 over your gravel at that point. Like the person before me said, just put some of the gravel in a panty hose leg and tie it off and set it on the sand somewhere for a few weeks - it should help to colonize your new tank and you can remove it after that time without having the gravel in there that you really don't want anyways...

ALASKA

Have fun with the tank - I'm happy for you!

 

[Storm]

Thanks to both of you for the tips. I will definitely try the pantyhose and see what happens. I AM very excited about this as it will open a whole new world of fishkeeping for me.