Changing Substrate

[dannyboy98765]

Hi i was just wondering what would be the best route to change substrate from gravel to sand, tank is currently stocked with 6 platys, common plec and a albino dwarf frog( i think donated by a friend who no longer wanted him).

Will the fish be ok in the tank whilst the sand settled ?

Any views greatly appreciated.

Cheers

Dan

 

[fluttermoth]

I would always advise removing the fish before you change substrate. It can be done fish-in, but stripping the tank down is the best way, IME.

The fish will be fine in a plastic storage box or buckets for the couple of hours it'll take you. Make sure you keep your filter media wet

 

[PrairieSunflower]

I would always advise removing the fish before you change substrate. It can be done fish-in, but stripping the tank down is the best way, IME.

The fish will be fine in a plastic storage box or buckets for the couple of hours it'll take you. Make sure you keep your filter media wet

I did it as stated and it went so smoothly. I'd not even attempt it fish in as there seems to forever be hidden gunk that gets stirred up no matter how clean you think you keep your tank.

 

[Essjay]

To change to another tack - are you sure the frog is a dwarf not a clawed? Albino frogs are usually clawed, and they grow big enough to eat you platies. Have a look at its front feet - if there is webbing between the fingers, it's a dwarf frog. If there is no webbing between the fingers it's a clawed frog, the biggie.

 

[Mr.Tan]

as others have said, removing the fish from the tank is the best way to do this. You WILL stir up a lot of "crap" that is currently trapped down in the gravel substrate. The fish will be much happier and less stressed also. It will also allow you to work easier as you are not dealing with the fish being in the way.