Best Way To Remove Substrate?

[doug21]

What's the best way to remove the substrate in my tank? It has turned into a slab and none of it is "loose" at all. I don't know if I'm gonna replace it or go barebottom. I just don't know how to do it or what to expect. I do know that all the rock and corals have to come out to remove all of it. I'm open to any help or suggestions.

[jimmy frag]

a bit at a time would be safe.

[Psionicdragon]

wet vac

[doug21]

Can't do a little at a time or use a wet vac cause it's all 1 piece. That's what has me stumped.

[Aquarist007]

Can't do a little at a time or use a wet vac cause it's all 1 piece. That's what has me stumped.

In that case I would be tempted to add new substrate over it and leave it in there

[AliciaP]

I would remove it since I have no idea what's going on with it. And leave a bare bottom, I love my bare bottom tank. The coraline looks great on the bottom.