[Matt]

If I put small layer of sand for looks in my 10 gallon tank will i have to stir it up often?
Will plants grow better?
Will they stay in the ground Better?

Also, Do cory cats Mind Sand?
And how do I go about Preparing it and Placing it in the Tank?

 

[Lupin]

Just rinse the sand well. You will have to stir the sand often to prevent anaerobic spots. Plants will grow well but not when the sand becomes compact causing the roots to rot due to lack of air circulation. Cories do not mind sand. They are excellent at stirring the bottom but do not rely too heavily on them to disturb the sand.

Expect mini-cycles if you are replacing the substrate.

 

[fish_4_all]

Malaysian Trumpet Snails, they stir the sand and keep it clean so it doesn't get anarobic pockets. Yes they can have the same drawbacks from over feeding and population explosions but they will be priceless for keeping the sand and your tank healthy.

 

[Amphitrite]

If I put small layer of sand for looks in my 10 gallon tank will i have to stir it up often?

Just make sure that each week when you do your water change, that you give it a stir round with a plastic fork or something.

Will plants grow better?
Will they stay in the ground Better?

Just make sure that the sand is deep enough for you anchor the roots, any stubborn floating ones can be secured with a plant weight.

 

[Dk]

My corys and loaches redecorate my tank weekly, but i still stir it ip each week when i do my water change. I ussually have to do that anyway since when i add the new water it moves the sand around somewhat.