What kind of sand to get?

[LosC]

I'm setting up my tank and I want to use sand. I know nothing about sand in aquariums, what kind should I get? Pros and cons? I know I need about 25 lbs. for my 24g tank and that's all I know. Also, I was thinking about putting in a layer of some sort of plant substrate, what should I go with here? Need help, info, suggestions, recommendations... thanks

[Ellen4God]

Well, if you're going to have a planted tank, why not just go for Eco-Complete, as it is made for planted aquariums?

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/produc...fm?pcatid=9087

I'm planning to switch both of my tanks over to this hopefully this summer.

[LosC]

I could use that as a bottom layer. I'm looking for the light colored look with sand. I've heard of people using pool sand I think.

[Drumachine09]

Play sand, pool filter sand, "moon" sand, pretty much any sand will work. I used quickcrete sand. Cheaper than play sand, but its supposibly filtered before hand (doubt it).

[Wild Turkey]

Play sand, pool filter sand, "moon" sand, pretty much any sand will work. I used quickcrete sand. Cheaper than play sand, but its supposibly filtered before hand (doubt it).

Im gonna agree here and say pretty much the cheaper the better, filter it before you use it either way

[cocoa_pleco]

personally i like estes marine sand, its not actually marine sand though, its awesome in FW

[country_boy454]

I used sand blasting sand in my 42 gallon. 100lb bag for $7. Works great!

[Ellen4God]

How much do you need for a tank? Er - how many lbs per gallon?

[cocoa_pleco]

usually 1lb/g

[ILuvMyGoldBarb]

I have used the Sakrete Natural Play Sand in the past and I loved it. The tank looked great with it.