Live Sand from the ocean.

[zhewitt04]

I was curious if i can use the sand from the ocean to seed my tank. I was going to use a small amount and my tank is close to the end of its cycle. Please let me know and also when will my algae die off. I have massive amounts of algae.

[shifty51008]

you can use sand from the ocean but it is best not to collect the sand next to shore, best option would be to go out a ways and dive for it. the sand next to the shore collects alot of nasty stuff.

once you cycle is complete and you keep your nitrates and phosphate levels down to 0 the algae will start to die off along with a good cleanup crew. it just takes time.

[bertoni]

You don't need any sand to seed the tank. If you're in Hawaii, it might be useful, though, in terms of adding small animals. I agree that getting away from shoreline contamination is useful.