best substrate options for cichlids

[hazelnut1]

I'm having some issues with the sand I'm using, it's the one from B&Q that everyone seems to use, but for some reason it keeps clogging up my filter and making a mess of my tank. I just can't remember the exact name of it, but I'm hoping someone can suggest a better alternative that won't break the bank or get sucked up into my filter.

[bubbles]

I've used play sand from my local garden centre in my 4ft tank and it's been alright, gets into the filters but doesn't clog them up. I've also used Swell Aquarium Sand in my smaller tank and that one's been fine, no filter issues. I washed the sand for about 30-60 minutes in hot water and then some tank water before adding it, did you do the same with yours? Is your filter positioned close to the sand, maybe that's the issue?

[frosty9]

I've had no problems with Argos play sand, my fish seem happy with it and it doesn't clog up my filter either.

[hazelnut1]

Thanks for the replies.

I've looked into Argos play sand and it seems it's really fine, so I'm guessing it'd clog up my filter just like the one I've got. I did wash the sand before putting it in, got rid of loads of debris, but still having issues.

I'm thinking of ordering that Swell Silver Sand you mentioned for my 4ft tank, what do you think? Does it look good in your tank? Got any pics?

Also, I'm planning on getting some rocks for the tank, gonna check out a garden centre for them.

[flinta]

I was thinking maybe kiln dry sand, I've heard that's pretty good, doesn't get sucked up into the filter as much, what do you think?

[hazelnut1]

Yeah, I'm using Kiln Dry sand at the moment, thanks for letting me know the name of it.

[fluxon4]

I've found pool filter sand on eBay, seems like a decent alternative and it's pretty affordable, might be worth a look if you're still having issues with the Kiln Dry sand.

[hazelnut1]

I'm not sure if that pool filter sand would be good, would it get everywhere in the tank or is it heavier than the other sands?

[daxton]

Personally, I'm a fan of Aragonite for my tank - keeps my pH stable at 8.2 without needing any extra additives. From what I've learned, as long as your pH is high and stable, pool sand is the way to go - larger grains don't compact like play sand does.

[hazelnut1]

To be honest, I'm a bit surprised you haven't checked your pH levels in a while. Aragonite isn't actually shells, it's a type of calcium carbonate. I can send you a link to it on eBay if you'd like, but I think it's one of those things you need to see in person to get the right stuff. It's pretty specific to aquarium use, so make sure you're getting the right kind.

As for pool sand, I think it'd be a good option for you if you can get a good quality one. The grain size is a lot bigger than play sand, so it shouldn't get sucked up into your filter as much. But like I said, you'll need to keep an eye on your pH levels to make sure it's stable.