New tank-sand/sandless

[S13DWS]

I have been wondering lately, do I really need to have sand in the bottom of my tank for my demasoni?
I am getting a new tank shortly, as soon as dad buys a new one for his turtle.
The problem I have been having, and it seems other users have too looking at some of the posts around, is that the gravel I currently have gets absolutely filthy. I have (yesterday) bought 2 Bristol Noses (not sure of the correct term I was told they were yellow bristlenoses) to help with cleaning the tank.

The main thing I want to know is:
Is it absolutely nessaccary to have sand/gravel in the bottom of the tank?
I am not growing any plants in the tank and would like to know of any easier alternative to the gravel i have for cleaning/maintenance.
If it is better for the fishes well-being I will of course put sand in the bottom of the tank.

Thanks and sorry I havent been on lately. We have just moved house and my computer got busted on the way here in the truck so im forced to borrowing my sisters whenever I can.:c3:

[Zerileous]

substrate can be an important part of the biofilter, however I don't believe it is necessary. I know many hospital/quarantene tanks do not have substrate because it helps with sanitation. While I have never seen a no-substrate display tank, I don't see why it would be a no-no unless the livestock had specific requirements for the substrate (ie diggers and sifters).

[Tilmo2180]

I agree with Zerileous unless your fish "need" it, you dont have to have it. I use river rocks in my turtle tank because they are easier to clean. I keep sand with my fish cause I like the look of it. If you get something that feeds on the bottom (I use Cory's) they will kinda fling the junk off the bottom and it gets sucked up by the filter. Otherwise..yeah, it can be a pain to clean your sand.