Freshwater Madness
Would you like to react to this message? Create an account in a few clicks or log in to continue.



 
RegisterHomeSearchLatest imagesLog inFWMadnessGallery
Similar topics

 

 Subtrate question

Go down 
4 posters
AuthorMessage
rsnprocess
Member
rsnprocess


Posts : 64

Age : 53

Subtrate question Empty
PostSubject: Subtrate question   Subtrate question EmptyThu Mar 03, 2011 7:21 pm

What is the smallest size aquarium gravel out there? I want to use something smaller than pea size for my cichlid small tank. I'm l little too nervous about sand at this point.
Back to top Go down
cooltow1
Member
cooltow1


Male Posts : 96

Age : 73
Location : Sarasota Fl
Humor : once upon a time
Favorite Fish : only GOLDFISH

Subtrate question Empty
PostSubject: Re: Subtrate question   Subtrate question EmptyThu Mar 03, 2011 8:42 pm

I seen it as small as 1/8" but it doesn't have be aquarium gravel you can buy a lot of suitable substates at the local hardware store or garden center if you look around, but most of my tanks are bare bottom


Rick
Back to top Go down
http://picasaweb.google.com/home
rsnprocess
Member
rsnprocess


Posts : 64

Age : 53

Subtrate question Empty
PostSubject: Re: Subtrate question   Subtrate question EmptyThu Mar 03, 2011 8:57 pm

I've read it has to be inert, I'm assuming this means having no chemicals so as not affect the PH.
Back to top Go down
cooltow1
Member
cooltow1


Male Posts : 96

Age : 73
Location : Sarasota Fl
Humor : once upon a time
Favorite Fish : only GOLDFISH

Subtrate question Empty
PostSubject: Re: Subtrate question   Subtrate question EmptyThu Mar 03, 2011 9:43 pm

rsnprocess wrote:
I've read it has to be inert, I'm assuming this means having no chemicals so as not affect the PH.

Yes it has to be inert
NO dyes
NO chemicals
and in most cases
NO limestone

rick
Back to top Go down
http://picasaweb.google.com/home
Wyomingite
Fish Wrangler
Wyomingite


Male Posts : 1781

Age : 56
Location : Wonderful Windy Wyoming
Humor : "I drank what?" - Socrates
Favorite Fish : I won't choose and ya can't make me!

Subtrate question Empty
PostSubject: Re: Subtrate question   Subtrate question EmptySat Mar 05, 2011 3:13 am

"Inert" also means that the substrate irself does not react with the water, which is why limestone is generally a material to avoid. Limestone leaches minerals into the water and affects the water chemistry. If you are unsure about a rock or substrate (sand for example), pour a bit of vinegar on it. If it fizzes, then you know its gonna leach minerals into the water. In addition to pH, rocks/substrate that leach minerals into the water often effect hardness and alkalinity.

I like well-washed play sand. You'll get mixed reactions as to the suitability of various sands from the local hardware or department store. The big thing ya have to be aware of if you choose to use any sand not specifically intended for aquarium use is that it should not have any kind of additive. Play sand is generally safe, as the intended use limits the potential additives since it has to be safe for use by children. That does not mean that it won't contain limestone or other rock that could leach into the water.

WYite
Back to top Go down
saint_felony
The Turtle Whisperer
saint_felony


Posts : 1930


Subtrate question Empty
PostSubject: Re: Subtrate question   Subtrate question EmptySun Mar 06, 2011 2:08 pm

I've used random things for substrate and decorations from my local craft store as well. Much like play sand if it's certified non-toxic (for kids) and won't dissolve in water odds are pretty good it's fish safe.

If you're looking for a bit bigger than sand, glass beads could work. I got a big cheap mixed bag once, and used them for a 5g tank and it looked pretty nice.
Back to top Go down
Sponsored content





Subtrate question Empty
PostSubject: Re: Subtrate question   Subtrate question Empty

Back to top Go down
 
Subtrate question
Back to top 
Page 1 of 1
 Similar topics
-
» Question about PH
» Bolivian ram question
» Goldfish Breeding Question...or Two

Permissions in this forum:You cannot reply to topics in this forum
Freshwater Madness :: General Freshwater Madness :: General Freshwater-
Jump to: