Sand Beds. Lets go!

[huthain]

My last QT post gained decent traction and I noticed theres particular topics this one included that seemed a bit outdated and unstructured. So im going to keep rolling out similar formats on multiple subjects throughout the next few weeks and months. I think these discussions will significantly help both experienced people have a healthy discussion and share their knowledge and beginner to make decisions based on best practices while considering pros and cons. So without further ado:

Let's talk sand beds, how have you set up yours?
Bare bottom or a specific depth?
Answer why you went with what you did
And what are the drawbacks and positives to it?

 

[56longroof]

I have a dsb in my tank. When I upgrade to a larger tank I think I'm going to just put in 2-3".

 

[Gumbies R Us]

2inch sand bed for me! It was perfect depth for my watchman goby

 

[huthain]

I have a dsb in my tank. When I upgrade to a larger tank I think I'm going to just put in 2-3".

When you say DSB, how deep are we talking here? And why would you go with 2 to 3 inches next time and not stay with the same?

 

[huthain]

2inch sand bed for me! It was perfect depth for my watchman goby

Ive got a diamond goby, im considering just under 2 inches for my new tank but probably fairly close to 2 inches. Do you vaccum the gravel? If so how often?

 

[Jay Hemdal Verified Community Expert]

I use bare bottom for my frag systems and 1 to 2" of coral sand in my display tanks.

 

[huthain]

I use bare bottom for my frag systems and 1 to 2" of coral sand in my display tanks.

Jay why did you decide to go for 1 to 2? Are there any drawbacks you see? Would you go a different route next time and most importantly do you vaccum?

 

[revhtree Verified Admin]

I'm a big fan of a sand bed and the sweet spot for me is 2-3". Some drifts make areas a little more or a little less.

 

[huthain]

I'm a big fan of a sand bed and the sweet spot for me is 2-3". Some drifts make areas a little more or a little less.

Same sand feels absolutely essential for me as well
Do you vaccum the sand if so how regularly

 

[Jay Hemdal Verified Community Expert]

Jay why did you decide to go for 1 to 2? Are there any drawbacks you see? Would you go a different route next time and most importantly do you vaccum?

I rarely vacuum unless there is some surface build up. Dinos or bluegreen algae can be an issue. I try to use water flow to keep the surface of the sand cleaner.