New substrate for 75 gallon planted tank

[WiccaFish]

I have a 75 gallon planted tank that has large gravel substrate in it right now. Before I add to my fish family I want to change the substrate to a more plant/Bristlenose pleco friendly substrate. I don't like dirt and I think sand is just too messy. I also don't plan on using co2.
What are your suggestions for a good substrate?

 

[PlasticGalaxy]

I have a 75 gallon planted tank that has large gravel substrate in it right now. Before I add to my fish family I want to change the substrate to a more plant/Bristlenose pleco friendly substrate. I don't like dirt and I think sand is just too messy. I also don't plan on using co2.
What are your suggestions for a good substrate?

What other fish are you putting in? Sand can be messy but is good for plecos and other bottom feeders since it won't rub their undersides raw like gravel. Not to mention hardscaping items like rocks and wood sink nicely into it and won't cause a horrible scraping sound like gravel does. Some say that plants tend to come loose in sand, but if you use the right method they sit very well.

While it is messy, sand has many benefits... It might be your best option.

 

[OliveFish05]

Sand is nice, I have not had it be very messy. My plants do well with it. Honestly sand would be a very good option. If you don't want sand, you could look for a smaller size gravel

 

[madmark285]

There is Eco-complete, a substrate for planted tanks. A bit expensive.

 

[WiccaFish]

Right now I just have two Gouramis, to danios, and two rainbows and the one pleco. I plan on increasing the shoals but want to redo the substrate first.
I've heard eco complete is a bit rough for the plecos belly and hard to put plants in because it's so light and loose, not sure how true that is. Is their a good sand to purchase specifically for aquariums and that comes in darker colors?

 

[Circus]

I have the standard plain black sand from Petco. It was about $1 a lb and I put 60lbs in my 80 gallon. I only have my water sprite planted, though. This is what it looks like.

 

[WiccaFish]

Wow!! Beautiful set up. I guess sand is probably my choice. You said you got it at Petco? Unfortunately, I only have a PetSmart by me and they don't sell sand. I'll try ordering online.
Now, next question....
I'm guessing it's best to remove the fish when switching substrate, especially when switching to sand?

 

[Circus]

In the past I have always placed my fish in a bucket, once overnight, when changing my substrate. I have always been worried about accidentally injuring them.

 

[WiccaFish]

I'm thinking that's my best bet and since I don't have a lot of fish right now it may be easier to just move them all.
I know you said you got Petco sand but was that your top choice or just what was available? I've seen so many different brands from real cheap to the super expensive. I just want to get the cleanest and best brand out there.

 

[Circus]

It is what was easy and available, I think the brand is Imagitarium. It does clump up a bit at first, but is somewhat fine, and very soft.

I have used Stony River before, but that is pretty large grains. It does let my plants root somewhat easily. I had an 18 in water sprite rooted in mine for awhile, and a sword in it now. It has not damaged my corycats barbels, either. I will post a pic of my 15 with Stony River.

While I have never used it, I know some people use black blasting sand.