Sand or soil?

[shaggss]

Hi all

Just getting into FW. I had SW tanks before, but this is so new to me!

One thing I am confused about is the substrate? I really like the look of a sand bottom but understand its not the best for the plants? And I would really like Corys which I understand do better with a sand substrate?

Please help! Would it be possible to put soil on the bottom and then cover with sand? I have never read this done?

Thanks to All!!

 

[PheonixKingZ]

One thing I am confused about is the substrate? I really like the look of a sand bottom but understand its not the best for the plants? And I would really like Corys which I understand do better with a sand substrate?

Sand is the best for plants IMO. You also don’t need fancy/expensive STRATUM or simple sand. The nutrients in the sand will eventually run out, hence making it a waste of money.

I suggest getting play sand. It’s cheap, clean, and natural looking. If you need high nutrient plants, use liquid fertilizers or root tabs.

And yes, Corydoras need sand as a substrate, as they are filter feeders.

 

[mbsqw1d]

Yes you can cap soil with sand, would need to be at least 1&1/2" of sand. What plants are you looking at getting as most do well in sand only substrate

 

[Byron]

Hi all

Just getting into FW. I had SW tanks before, but this is so new to me!

One thing I am confused about is the substrate? I really like the look of a sand bottom but understand its not the best for the plants? And I would really like Corys which I understand do better with a sand substrate?

Please help! Would it be possible to put soil on the bottom and then cover with sand? I have never read this done?

Thanks to All!!

I don't know where the old wives' tale about sand not being good for plants sprung from, but it does seem to be around a lot. Sand is without question the absolute best substrate for a freshwater fish aquarium--with a very few exceptions where certain species need gravel or river rock. And plants will grow very well in sand. You want inert sand, and smooth river sand or similar (some brands of play sand are identical, but not all). Never use any construction grade sand, it can harm some fish.

Soil substrate tanks came to the notice of the hobby a couple decades ago, but the truth is that they carry more cons than pros, and they are more difficult to deal with initially. After about a year, there is no difference at all between the plant benefits of soil over inert sand; and the only initial benefit of soil is immediate CO2, but this doesn't take long to establish in any aquarium with fish being fed.

 

[shaggss]

wow........more reading required for me then!!!! And great news I can use sand - awesome!

Thanks so much for everyones reply......much appreciated!!!

 

[Retired Viking]

I am changing my 55 gallon tank from gravel to sand today, it has been a long day but I am almost done. Before and after pictures. I am still working on it .