Sand over gravel?

Chr1s

I see a lot of member's with sand in there tank's. What are the benefits of sand over gravel.

Boredomb

Easier to maintain/clean for sure. You don't have the problem with debris falling in between the rocks and having to try and vacuum it out. With sand you just run the siphon just a little bit above the top and it easily sucks up the debris. Looks more natural and lots of fish prefer it better.
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Chr1s

What about pelco's eating the sand while cleaning?

jaysee

Fish don't eat sand - they are very aware of the difference between that and food.

Byron

There are some fish that will "sift" sand naturally. Corys, various other catfish and loaches, and many cichlids. Sand is much better than gravel for these fish. They expel the sand through the fills and eat any food they may find in it.

I have been changing my tanks over from fine gravels to play sand. Overall I think this is better. It does depend upon the fish and their requirements of course, as there are some instances where a fine gravel and river rock substrate would be appropriate, as in a Central American themed aquascape, or an Indian mountain river or a Chinese stream for Hillstream Loach.

Byron.

cwmorrow

How did the cleaning a bottle of sand in the tank turn out?
Thanks!

Byron

I haven't changed that tank yet, but I intend to try this when I do.