Live Sand - Need Experienced Guidance

[jlovell]

I'm here in tampa and a small issue has come up with live sand. I am being told that keys live sand is no longer available because it is illegal to be sold. (Unsure whether it is illegal for all or only illegal for some (ie licensing issues)) I am advised that if anyone else is selling and and it is "pink gulf sand" to avoid it because it is +37% phosphate (which I am literate enough to have read is not a good thing for marine tanks).

Question: Is this pink gulf sand at +37% phosphate such a major issue that I should not get it or do the benefits of the live critters outweigh the phosphate?

Someone with knowledge give me guidance here on what the best course of action is. I'm going to try to google this and see if I can get any more info, but would appreciate any knowledgable input on the matter.

Jay

[Rick O]

You may want to post this question in GRD.

[dme330i]

Somewhat off-topic: How much live sand do you need? I have an extra 50lbs from a 5-month old tank, so it's nicely stocked with the live critters that you need. Moreover, it's not too old, and thus housing very little PO4 if any.

[jlovell]

Originally Posted by Rick O

You may want to post this question in GRD.

That's a really good idea. I'll do that.

Thanks, Jay