Switching From a Gravel to a Sand Aquarium

Although gravel is best for most aquariums, switching to sand is sometimes necessary. Aquarium plants may require a sandy bottom. Fish are likely to respond to the elevated pH levels. Other fish require sand to bury in, something that could be dangerous in a gravel tank. Make the switch to sand if your aquarium needs it to thrive.

  1. Types of Sand Substrate

    • There are many different types of sand substrate, but only six are commonly used in aquariums. The most popular aquarium sand is silica sand, also known as pool filter sand. This sand is popular because it features a fine grain size and cleans easily. Play sand, black beauty, coral sand, aragonite and Tahitian moon sand are also available for use in your tank.

    Choosing the Type of Sand

    • Silica sand is an affordable fine grain and safe for fish to bury in. Black beauty, on the other hand, is sharp and not recommended for fish that bury or sift in sand. If you̵7;re looking to save money, you could choose play sand, but be prepared to spend more time cleaning the sand. Aragonite and Tahitian moon sand are great options for any tank, especially if you̵7;re looking for improved buffering. Unfortunately, both sands are very expensive, so they̵7;re not ideal for large tanks. Finally, choose coral sand if you̵7;re hoping to stabilize your pH balance.

    Adding Sand to an Established Aquarium

    • Begin by turning off your aquarium̵7;s filter and moving your fish to a separate container. Leaving the filter on could cause a clog when you̵7;re removing the tank̵7;s old gravel. Thoroughly clean your sand, rinsing it again and again, until water runoff is clear. Using a strainer, dip into the tank and collect the gravel. Once all the gravel is removed, use a clean PVC pipe to pour sand across the tank̵7;s bottom. Cover the entire aquarium̵7;s floor and then continue to add sand evenly. In general, you should add 1 pound of sand per gallon of water. Do not reintroduce fish until the sand has completely settled.

    Starting Over from Scratch

    • Completely tearing down the tank is more difficult than adding sand to an already established aquarium. The benefit is that you won̵7;t stir up any mulm or nitrogen. Instead, you̵7;ll be starting over completely, ensuring the aquarium is balanced and sanitary. First, you̵7;ll want to remove your fish, the heater, filter and all of your decorative items. Place them in separate containers. You could also save the old water if you̵7;d like to reuse it. Completely remove the gravel before adding the sand. Pour sand evenly, until you̵7;ve added approximately 1 pound of sand for every gallon of water. Then, add 1 or 2 inches of new water. Once there̵7;s a small amount of water, you can begin redecorating. Slowly fill your aquarium with half old water and half new water. Feel free to use all new water if you prefer. Turn on your filter and lamp. Finally, reintroduce your fish when the aquarium is stable.