Gravel raising pH?

fishkid

Is the sand dark enough to bring out the colors in the fish? Also, how much should I buy for a 46 gallon tank?

Byron

Yes. And one bag (which is 50 pounds or 25kg) will be sufficient, for a few dollars.

fishkid

Approximately how deep would the sand be if I used that amount? Would it be deep enough for swordplants and crypts?

Byron

You won't need all the bag, but playsand only comes in these bags. But having some extra for later, or another tank is always nice.

I don't have more than 2 inches depth overall (level when first added). Then you can build up deeper areas (3 inches max) in the back for the larger swords. Rocks that are inert are best for this as they are less likely to shift, though in time all substrates will even out unless there is an underlying structure (I've never bothered with this).

fishkid

Thanks for all the advice Byron! I will probably get around to changing the substrate sometime next week.