Sand

[mishmash]

Hi, Im a new member and am just about to set up an Interpet RiverReef 50 (94litre) as a mixed tropical tank. I want to use some type of inert sand as substrate but was shocked at the prices of this at my LFS. I seem to recall that its a lot cheaper to buy from other sources if its not referred to as "aquarium sand". Can anyone refresh my memory on what I can buy and where to go for it ? I have been living abroad for several years and knowing the right place to go for things in the UK is taking time to adjust to lol Thanks.

 

[StandbySetting]

Childrens play sand from Argos.

 

[ron4sum1]

Play sand's good, and it looks natural. Problem is the cleaning. You have to wash it a million times !! So I ended up buying another sand substrate that's more grainy than the play sand.

Also, think about where you're going to wash it, as if you wash it in the sink, you have to be really careful. I'm sure you wouldn't want to end up blocking the sink!

Make sure whatever sand you see is compatible for aquarium usage, if not, pH can alter and so on .

x

 

[This Old Spouse]

Play sand is great to work with and cheap. Yes, you have to rinse it (outside is best) but once you're done the benefits soon make one forget how miserable it is to wash it over and over.

 

[fishguy2727]

The only cheapo sand I would even consider is pool filter sand. I only use and recommend Estes Marine Sand (also known as Stoney River and Ultra Reef). It is very uniform in size, a perfect size, and has color options. I usually use black and white mixed together, but solid black looks great too. If you use a light color it can cause the colors on the fish to wash out.

 

[phishyphil]

Childrens play sand from Argos.

Play sand is great to work with and cheap. Yes, you have to rinse it (outside is best) but once you're done the benefits soon make one forget how miserable it is to wash it over and over.

+1 Here. £4.50 for 20Kg. You cant get much cheaper

 

[Xraymark]

Any recommendations what to place under the sand for plant fertiliser.

 

[eaglesaquarium]

Most plants draw nutrients through their leaves/stems. You don't need something under it for fertilizer. You can use something though. I used flourite, but I don't think it is necessary.

 

[fishguy2727]

You can just put some Flourish Tabs in the sand.