Loaches Online Forum

I am looking ahead to upgrading a tank for the loaches and I have been looking around but have not seen sand available for aquariums. What sort of sand do you all safely use for loaches?

Any info appreciated!

Emily

Hi Emily. Various sands can be used. They need to be of rounded grain structure, not "sharp" sand such as used in concrete mixes and of a non-calciferous source.

I use regular Playpit sand that is sold cheaply at most hardware stores or DIY places such as Home Depot or Lowes. Others have used a darker sand used for sand-blasting or swimming pool filter sand.

Martin.

I too have used the playsand at home depot. IIRC it was called newcastle or something.

I use the white sand sold in the pet stores. It can be used in both salt and freshwater tanks and the kuhlis sure love it.

Here's a shot from the loach gallery and my album. You can see the sand inside his gills
http://www.loachtank.com/albums/userpic ... ygills.jpg

I also use very small polished river stream stones. I've found that the kuhlis can actually bury themselves under it also.

I usually only use tahitian black moon sand in all of my tanks. Sadly kuhlis and stuff like that don't dig in it for some reason. I've never even gotten spiny eels to dig through it, which is suprising because ones like the peacocks live in the sand like 90 percent of the day.

I saw hermit sand at the store, but the fact that it is supposed to be used (for calcium?) by the crabs makes me think it would dissolve and mess with the water. But maybe that would be good? Would it make the water better that way or would it be like "hard water" with limestone?

Emily

Hi Emily,

Do not use any sand that is sold for use with marine aquariums, as it is likely to make the water hard and alkaline. Loaches prefer it soft and acidic, so you'll need to use sand that is inert. Most decent stores should carry quite a selection.

Emma

hi, whats the difference between "aquarium soil" and sand? i bought europet aquarium soil and it seemed to imply that this goes underneath the gravel. however below the packaging it states contents as "rver sand"? can i use this without the top layer of gravel? it feels like very fine sand

hi

what type of filters should i use if i plan on havin sand in my tank