PFS or Live Sand

[nvladik]

Hi everyone,

I am setting up a new 75 gallon reef tank. I have plenty of clean Pool Filter Sand left over form freshwater setup, can I use that with the tank or should I get new Live Sand?

If Live Sand is the way to go, what amount is needed for a 48x18 tank? Thanks!

[nvladik]

bump, really wondering if anyone knows as I am looking to pick up some live sand tomorrow if PFS wont work.

[Sugar Magnolia]

I believe pool sand has silicates in it which will cause problems. You can buy dry aragonite sand much cheaper than live sand. CaribSea Seafloor special grade is what you'll want.

[nvladik]

It's made from silicates, but isn't that the same plenty of aquariums and sumps are made off? Any thoughts on how silicates in PFS are different and how they affect SW setup?

[Sugar Magnolia]

It's made from silicates, but isn't that the same plenty of aquariums and sumps are made off? Any thoughts on how silicates in PFS are different and how they affect SW setup?

Silicates, in large quantity can cause algae issues. Aragonite does not.

[nvladik]

Thanks Sugar Magnolia, went to the LFS, really liking Carib Sea Fiji Pink. I think I will be going with that.

[Xavibear]

Save money by getting dry sand, not live.

[nvladik]

Save money by getting dry sand, not live.


Any particular sand I should look for?

[Xavibear]

If you like the Fiji pink sand , get that, just save money and buy the dry stuff, not the live.

[JoelA7]

Did you look at this?

http://premiumaquatics.com/products/00796-aragalive-bimini-pink-20lb.html?gclid=CMPKzrmCq8ECFSZo7Aod1kQAlg