Sand From The Beach

[howling_greywolf]

I was wondering if taking sand from a beach/lake area would be okay or if it's smarter to just buy sand. So far I have been to all the pet store around me but no sand. I went to some garden reno places but still no sand. What should I do?

As an after thought I have been wanting to switch to sand since my cories started dying from damaged mouths. Also thinking about loaches and snails (If I can find snails that is.)

 

[akudewan]

Beach sand has a lot of salt, and cannot be used. Have a look at this thread: http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?showtopic=71597

 

[rosebud280282]

I'm no expert but I have heard other members say that they use childs play sand from argos about £2 just wash it really well.

 

[bobf]

I'm no expert but I have heard other members say that they use childs play sand from argos about £2 just was it really well.

Rosebud is right - buy some it cheap anyway and just rinse it through a while.

Not sure 'Argos' have too many branches in Canada by the way!

 

[rosebud280282]

lol - sorry didn't take notice where you were from.

 

[howling_greywolf]

I'm thinking land loke lake, so I don't think any slat would be present but I will still keep a look out for sand. The only place I have not check is a pet store called The Purple Seahorse. I hope they have some kind of sand

 

[howling_greywolf]

hoping to go for sand today. I've been to a total pet and seen a 55 g tank for only 235, with everythin included, two lights with hood, 60watt silent pump and underground heater Just need about 80 bucks more

 

[Griz]

Most large garden centres will have play sand in bags. Also look for it at Home Depot or similar stores. It's very cheap and works well. As stated, rinse it very well first and when you sure it's clean, wash it some more.

 

[Jen]

I got my sand from a swimming pool supply shop... It's pool filter sand. Great stuff... and way cheaper than any you will get from a fish store. I got 100 pounds of it for (drumroll please...) 15 dollars (canadian)! Worth checking out if you have a shop near you.

 

[vic]

H/G:
I would think the beach sand would be ok. There will be no salt content. Put a couple cups in an clean ice cream pail and add water from you tap. Let is sit for a week or two and test for problems. The other option is go to an outfit that does stucco, they will have tons of the stuff. Another option is a rock products company. Check with the masonry outfits in Kelowna, they will direct you to where they by stone and rock products. Also a good source for slate, etc. for tank decoration.
Cheers;

 

[reddannyh]

I would have thought beach sand would alter your ph more than anything.

 

[howling_greywolf]

Going to check a revy and homedepot + there is a pool place near my house so will walk over. Happy thoughts to all

 

[akudewan]

I would have thought beach sand would alter your ph more than anything.

pH is the measure of the acidic or basic nature of a solution. Salt is neither acidic nor alkaline. Infact, salt is formed when an acid and alkali neutralise each other. So salt in beach sand will not alter the pH.

(Correct me if i'm wrong)