I use CaribSea Aragonite- Seaflor special grade reef sand, it's the real deal - straight from the ocean. I think a lot of people who swear by sand don't realize what they're missing out on. This stuff is packed with minerals like potassium, magnesium, calcium, and the list goes on. Plus, it's got natural buffers that you just won't find in play or pool sand. I'm guessing the reason more people don't use it is the cost - let's be honest, Aragonite doesn't come cheap. But for me, it's worth it because I don't have to worry about adding extra stuff to my water to keep it stable.
By the way, I'd highly recommend getting a test kit - it's a game-changer. I use the API Master Kit and it's been spot on for me. No more taking water samples to the pet store or relying on those strip tests that can be hit or miss.
best substrate options for cichlids
Re: best substrate options for cichlids
I use pool filter sand in my tanks and it's been a game-changer. No issues with clogging or anything. Got a great deal on it too - 50lbs for just 14 bucks. I've got a 55g tank with the mystic white stuff and a 20g with the light brown kind. Looks pretty good, if I do say so myself. Plus, cleaning is a breeze - all the waste just sits on top and you can just vacuum it off, no need to dig into the substrate.
Re: best substrate options for cichlids
I use CaribSea Aragonite- Seaflor special grade reef sand, it's a premium product that comes right from the ocean. It's got natural minerals like potassium, magnesium, and calcium, and buffers that play/pool sand doesn't. I think a lot of people opt for sand because it's cheaper, but Aragonite keeps my water stable and suitable for my fish.
You should get a test kit, it's really helpful for checking your water periodically. I use the API Master Kit, it's pretty accurate and you don't need to take the water anywhere to get it tested. Plus, it's more accurate than test strips.
Wow the stuff you use starts at £40, that's a bit steep for me. But I can see why you like it, it does look nice. I had a look and this is all I can really find online, what do you think? It seems like it only checks pH, how many things do I need to be checking?
You should get a test kit, it's really helpful for checking your water periodically. I use the API Master Kit, it's pretty accurate and you don't need to take the water anywhere to get it tested. Plus, it's more accurate than test strips.
Wow the stuff you use starts at £40, that's a bit steep for me. But I can see why you like it, it does look nice. I had a look and this is all I can really find online, what do you think? It seems like it only checks pH, how many things do I need to be checking?
Re: best substrate options for cichlids
CJH- I'm not saying sand is bad, but for me it would mean adding extra stuff to keep the water stable and pH levels up. Lots of people use sand and have to add extras with every water change. I chose Aragonite so I don't have to add anything, you're lucky your tap water is good for them.
calvers- yeah, it does seem pricey for you, I got it for cheaper here in the states. You'll want a test kit that checks for ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH at least, can't stress that enough. And yeah, it's the same pool filter sand, meant for swimming pools, not just any sand.
calvers- yeah, it does seem pricey for you, I got it for cheaper here in the states. You'll want a test kit that checks for ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH at least, can't stress that enough. And yeah, it's the same pool filter sand, meant for swimming pools, not just any sand.