Sand and CC

[buddy381]

Well, I have researched the forums and come to the conclusion that i should use sand instead of crushed coral. The only problem is that i already bought the cc and since i got it online i don't think it will be worth it to send it back. Can I mix sand with CC? What are your thoughts?

I am in the process of converting my 75 gallon tank from freshwater. I have bought the CC, salt and various other things. The tank is dry still as i am hoping to do things right instead of rushing into stuff. I hope to set up a sump/refusium with a skimmer, although i am trying to take it slow to not spend a ton up front. I want to gradually spend the money until i have everything. I have a fluval 404 canister filter right now that i hope to use for flow only eventually, but can i get away with this at first? how much more flow/powerheads do you think i need? I would like to get the tank up and running and then gradually add all of the necessary items that are suggested.

My goal is to start with some LR and maybe a couple of clowns until i can get the sump, skimmer, and other items all set up. Can this happen with what i have now

[drummereef]

Don't mix the sand and crushed coral. Try and send it back or sell it to a local reefer for their fish only setup. :) I would aim for at least 20x turnover in the display if not more. The more flow the better so a couple of powerheads would be great. I have 30x in my 40g mixed reef. Take it slow and you'll be fine.

[Tony44]

I have sand in my tank, and I think it looks alot better than CC. I havent been on here long, but there have been very many threads where people want to take out their CC, and replace it with sand. I figure with something like sand, your only going to buy it one time, so buy what you think is the best looking, even if it costs more. You will regret not getting what you wanted eventually.

Definitely get rid of the CC, and get sand.