Undergravel Filter and catfish

[IBFrog]

I have been reading that cory catfish prefere sand on the bottom of their home. I like undergravel filters (I also use an outside hanging filter. Better super clean than unhealthy home.) I have smooth, reasonably fine gravel and the corys seem to be OK. But, I have not provided catfish with a home before. They are in a 10 gal community aquarium that currently has 2 neons (I want a total of 6), 5 male guppies, and an albino cory and green cory. If I need to switch to sand, I will loose the under gravel filtration. But I want happy catfish. The aquarium is decoratend with some live potted plants, plastic/silk plants, and resin hidding logs. I have taken an interest in oto catfish lately and have thought of adding 2 to this tank. That might make a difference in the bottom strat too. (Yes, I know I may need to move the guppies if I add the otos.) Catfish do add a charm to the community. Thanks for the help.

 

[FishDan]

As long as the substrate is round with no sharp edges, the cories will be fine. Sand is probably best for them, but I do not feel it is a requirement. Again, so long as you use a rounded and not sharp gravel. This is to prevent barbel erosion and potential disease.

\Dan

 

[K-Holed]

Just because you wan't sand, doesn't mean you can't use a UG filter. all you need to do is obtain a gravel tidy. this is a shett that you lay on top of your gravel and lets water through, but not the sand you then place on top of it. just use a thin layer of sand with a gravel tidy and you can have the best of both worlds.

 

[IBFrog]

Thanks. I've not heard of a gravel tidy. I will check my LPS and/or fish needs supplier