Sand or Crushed Coral?

Smalltank3 · 08-02-2007, 06:18 PM

When I convert my 10g into saltwater, I know I'll need to change my substrate. I know there is sand or crushed coral but which one is better. I don't know this for sure, but would the poo from the various inverts and fish just lay on the surface of the sand? I am leaning towards crushed coral when the time comes, but would sand be better? Also, how thick should the substrate be?

Thanks,

Smalltank

Fly Guy · 08-02-2007, 06:22 PM

Sand. Crushed coral is the absolute worst substrate you can use.

Sand can either absorb the excess and act as a nutrient sink, and or you can actually siphon the stuff off of the top of it. Crushed coral simply traps wast near the surface where it rots and releases nasties right into the water column.

Im not going to go into how sand can denitrify, becasue i dont believe it can in very many peoples systems, and even in the ones that it can, how much is debateable. but that argument again goes in favor of sand over crushed coral.

Hop · 08-02-2007, 06:24 PM

Sand...

Smalltank3 · 08-02-2007, 06:29 PM

Alright, thanks guys. When it is time, I'll buy the sand

ski1297 · 08-02-2007, 06:38 PM

I did crushed coral in my 38gal for 3 years. Then when I moved I put in a sand bed. Now Im sand all the way PS: Nice to see a wisconsin reefer