Adding Finer Sand to Existing More Course Bed...SPS Tank

[DT's_Reef]

I have a 90g SPS system with a very shallow (about 1") slightly course sand bed, and I want to add a more fine sand to it, and increase it to 3"-4". I'm thinking it might even be Carib-Sea Aragalive, but can't remember for sure.

This is for an SPS system and am curious if I should chuck the existing sand and replace it all with a finer mix......or is it perfectly fine to just add the finer sand on top of it?

I ask because I've got TONS of gammarus shrimp all in the bed and hate to kill the critters that are already there.

My guess is it will be fine to do this, but just wanted to check to be sure. Thanks.

[Amphiprion]

You can add a finer mix, but as you said, a good deal of animals may suffer. YOu could just add a little at a time, but remember, finer sediments will sift to the bottom--you will have the coarse stuff on top in the end.

[DT's_Reef]

Originally posted by Amphiprion
You can add a finer mix, but as you said, a good deal of animals may suffer. YOu could just add a little at a time, but remember, finer sediments will sift to the bottom--you will have the coarse stuff on top in the end.

Bah, thought coarse stuff would settle to the top too....the finer sand looks nicer. I'm going to remove most of what's there, leaving some for "seed animals" and put in the finer stuff.

I think SPS systems simply do better with at least a 3" fine sand bed anyway....at least this has been my experience. Doesn't seem to be enough "stuff" in the water without it.