Aquarium Advice - Gravel or Sand? by Tyne Valley Aquatics

In response to the most common question I get asked in the shop "Should I use gravel or sand in my tank?"
Basically I always advise using sand in a tropical aquarium and never use the bright coloured gravel unless for goldfish (and it looks shocking in a tropical tank).
Sand allows for small corydoras, loaches and molluscs such as clams - All of which will help to keep the sand clean by turning it over and removing some of the organic waste which builds up in an aquarium.
No doubt some people will not agree with my advice but whatever, man - make your own video and tell us why.
This is just my view.

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[Racingjunkey20]

would you suggest using sand for live planted aquarium? anyone can reply to me that knows. Thanks!

[pondguru]

I would always go sand unless the plants have difficult requirements, then a 'proper' plant substrate would be better for planted zones.

[mctravish107]

What about pool sand? Will that work?

[pondguru]

If you want a lower pH, ditch the gravel also a pool of sand will get mixed in with the gravel in time.

[dazzy1975]

Thanks for the advice, I am fed up of my gravel in my tank and was thinking of a change. Although I do have a couple of albino bristlenose, would these be ok with sand, or would I be best of staying with gravel.

[pondguru]

I wouldn't use gravel for any tropicals so best to go sand.

[AndehX]

@mctravish107 pool filter sand, if thats what you're refering to, should be fine to use in aquariums provided its washed throuroughly. I personally use childrens play sand, which is very fine, and is perfect for corys and other small bottom dwellers.

[AndehX]

@Racingjunkey20 definately use sand for planted aquariums. the plant roots will grow much easier in sand than in gravel.

[0rgazmatron]

i agee guru sand is definetly better with catfish, ive got a platydorus witch loves to glide through the sand please check out my tank to see the sand set up

[pondguru]

As long as it isnt gravel, the south american species will be happy. Large cichlids will move stuff about in the tank no matter what you have as a substrate.