Dsb Or No Dsb

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Hi there!
I'm making plans for a nano-reef and after getting to know about deep sand beds I'm wondering whether to have a DSB or not. I'm planning on having a DSB for the refigium as well as I read that would help to repopulate the infauna in the main tank. What do you guys think?

P.S - The DSB will consist of about 4" of Carib Sea Arag-Alive! Bahamas Oolite sand
http/www.bigalsonline.ca/BigAlsCA/ctl366...amasoolite10lbs

 

[chrissaysyes]

As long as you do it right, it's a good idea.

 

[1entra]

Personally I wouldn't go for a DSB as if the bed is disturbed in the future once it has matured and there is bacteria in it, it cause release harmful gases into the water column deeply stressing and sometimes killing most if not all your livestock. Also you have to make sure you really look into how to go about setting it up etc, IMO it would be quicker and easier just to set-up with average sandbed and wait till you have a bit more experience and have a DSB next time round!

 

[andywg]

Personally I wouldn't go for a DSB as if the bed is disturbed in the future once it has matured and there is bacteria in it, it cause release harmful gases into the water column deeply stressing and sometimes killing most if not all your livestock.

Not likely as the toxic gas, hydrogen sulphide, formed in anaerobic conditions (including in Live Rock when nitrates are being processed) denatures the moment it comes into contact with oxygen, and you know there is plenty of oxygen in your tank because your fish aren't dying. See here for more details.


I must admit that I would advise against a DSB in a nano for the tank itself as you don't have a great deal of room. 4" isn't really enough with most aragonite sand and you really want to aim for 6".

 

[chrissaysyes]

Didnt think about this being a nano tank...dont do it unless you're doing it in a sump...that would look really bad IMO.

 

[pengy666]

Yeah agree, not in a nano it is way too small for that sort of thing going on.

 

[chrissaysyes]

I hate seeing deep sand beds in display tanks Reminds me of ant farms.

 

[steelhealr]

DSB's do not function well in nano reefs. Avoid it. People DO try rDSB's or remote deep sand beds. These are huge buckets of sand outside the nano tank. You'd be better off with a refugium, chaeto, and a great light. SH