Changing Substrate, Is It Possible?

[RossC]

Ok so I've decided the large gravel in my 95 litre is too big and heavy for the plants to really root through and it seems like it could damage them as they are planted as it like sharp rocks rather than granular. Its basically cheapo wilko gravel. I'd like to get it all out and use some finer grain stuff and maybe a fertilised substrate underneath it like I have in my newest tank. My main concern is that the tank is pretty heavily stocked and the only tanks I could move the stock into are a 35 litre and a 12 litre. Even though it would only be for a couple of hours max I don't want to stress my fish out too much. Do any of you think it could be done without disastrous effects on the fish?

If not what about giving the old gravel a really good vacuuming and then layer the new stuff on top? Would this work?
Cheers guys and gals

 

[FishFanatic04]

Do you have a large plastic container? I used a big plastic rubbermaid and switched everything out, you might be able to run your filter on it even.


Layering on top won't work, the big stuff will end up on top eventually.

 

[RossC]

Do you have a large plastic container? I used a big plastic rubbermaid and switched everything out, you might be able to run your filter on it even.


Layering on top won't work, the big stuff will end up on top eventually.

Never thought about that, yer I've got one. Trouble is its a hang on filter so gotta test if it fits or not as the lip of the container is about 2cm thick. Just going to measure

Update: Yep it all fits quite nicely I reckon its about 60Litres maybe more so should be fine for a couple of hours while I re-scape. Thanks for the solution mate!

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Furthermore I think I will just add some fert tabs I've got to the new gravel rather than have a fert substrate underneath as most alter the pH so that would upset my fish big time wouldn't it?