Crushed Coral Substrate?

[maxxin69]

I wanted to use crushed coral as a substrate but recently found out of many people having nitrate problems due to trapped detritus. I was only going to use a very thin layer (just enough to cover the bottom of the tank). Would I still be having nitrate problems or would I be able to get away with it?

 

[Reefing Madness]

I still use xtra fine crushed coral on my tank, I don't have any nitrate issues. Its all in what size you get.

 

[mc-cro]

the problem is the trapped detritus, so its not so much a matter of how thick or what size; that type of substrate you have to use a siphon/gravel vac to remove the detritus before it becomes a problem.

 

[maharsreef]

the problem is the trapped detritus, so its not so much a matter of how thick or what size; that type of substrate you have to use a siphon/gravel vac to remove the detritus before it becomes a problem.

I agree, I was having lots of problems after a few years of crushed coral. I removed about 3/4 of it (as much as I could) and put in sand. Things are back on track now.

 

[maxxin69]

I still use xtra fine crushed coral on my tank, I don't have any nitrate issues. Its all in what size you get.

How long? I have the same grain as you if that is your tank in the picture.

 

[maxxin69]

I agree, I was having lots of problems after a few years of crushed coral. I removed about 3/4 of it (as much as I could) and put in sand. Things are back on track now.

That has been the general consensus thus far. Unless I can find some other long term success stories then I'll just go sand and save the headache.

 

[427HISS]

Either way, any substrate needs a clean up crew, like crabs, snails, sea stars, and fish like sand sifting gobies.
I like them all and enjoy watching them !

If you don't utilize any, then once a week or so take a tool like a rake, and move the substrate to get the detritus in the water column.

 

[Reefing Madness]

How long? I have the same grain as you if that is your tank in the picture.

How long have I had CC? WOW, ever since I've had SW tanks. I've always used this. This CC in the pics I've had for 6 years, and it came from a 125g tank that I had for an additional 6 years.