Sand

[kazzy]

Ok, so I'm planning on switching to sand in at least 2 of my tanks. Here are my questions:

1.) What size should the sand 'particles' be? Like, what is the smallest recommended?
2.) Other than aquarium sand, what else can you use? I've heard pool filter sand, I just can't seem to find it anywhere. What about 'play sand'?
3.) The amount of sand in lbs should be equal to the gallons right? (i.e. 20 gallon tank needs 20 lbs of sand?)
4.) Is sand safe for snails?
This will be for my cray/shrimp tanks. If it's safe for snails, I'll switch them to sand as well. Hoping to get this done tomorrow before work, or if need be do some before work, and the rest after. Already went out and got some nylon pantyhose for this (I don't own any...not much of a dress person lol)

Thanks!

[vladsbtch]

I use play sand. Sand is safe for snails. Just have to do a lot of cleaning of the sand before you put it into the tank. If you have under gravel filters you cannot use sand, but other than that sand is ok. I do not go by weight as much as volume. I do not know how others do it but I put in 2 to 3 inches deep. Play sand comes in either 25 or 50 lb bags (been a while and I do not remember what the weight is) and at about $3.99 a bag is a cheap way to go. I used one bag in my 30 gallon long tank. Hope this helps you.

[angel]

I use pool filter sand. It's clean it's heavy enough and it's light in color. It comes in 50# bags and you have to get it at pool and spa stores like Pool & Spa Depot or Family Leisure. This time of year Lowes and Home Depot don't carry it.

[angel]

Oh and same thing. I don't measure. Just put it in til I'm happy with it.

[jon carman]

I do the pool filter and the play. The play sand gets sucked out with the python, but it's cheap enough that I don't care. I think most aquatic creatures appreciate sand. I do mine thin because I have always heard about toxins building up if it isn't stirred up on occasion.

[signde]

sand bed calculator

www.cichlid-forum.com/articles/calculator.php

[kazzy]

Thanks everyone! WHEW! Just finally got done switching the last tank to sand. Ended up getting play sand. 2 50lb bags for about $7. I still have most of one bag just in case I need it for anything.

Everyone seems to be loving it too, especially the crays! I love the natural look it gives too. I'll post pics tomorrow once the sand settles in all of the tanks. Once again, thanks!