Benefits of Live Rock & Sand in a Marine Aquarium

Live rock and sand are healthy cornerstones to a marine, or saltwater, aquarium. Live rock and sand consist of dead microscopic sea life in the form of calcium carbonate. Live rock contains living organisms that have several benefits for marine aquariums. Live sand also has several purposes in a saltwater tank.

  1. Shelter

    • Live rock provides shelter for marine life, allowing the creatures in this type of aquarium to hide from predators and feel secure. If an aquarium enthusiast stocks several different types of fish in one marine tank, they may hide from each other until they adjust to their new environment.

    Filtration

    • Marine aquariums require regular filtration to ensure that harmful organisms do not grow out of control. Regular filtration also removes waste products from the water and prevents the aquarium from becoming cloudy. Live sand acts as a filtration medium for this type of aquarium. The sand grains rub together constantly, which loosens attached debris and bacterial colonies, according to The Tropical Tank. Once the sand performs this filtration action, a mechanical filter removes the debris from the tank.

    Ammonia Conversion

    • Augsburg College explains that live rock assists in the conversion of ammonia to nitrogen gas. Saltwater fish rely on a proper balance of ammonia and nitrogen in a marine aquarium. If the aquarium has too much ammonia, the fish can get sick or even die. If the marine aquarium has too much nitrogen, harmful algae can grow out control. Live rock assists in this process because it contains tiny organisms that break down wastes.

    Algae Growth Inhibition

    • Live rock contains a substance known as coralline algae. This type of algae inhibits the growth of harmful algae that pose a threat to saltwater fish. The only way to grow coralline algae in a marine aquarium is to add live rock to the tank, according to the Reef Aquarium Coral Propagation Lab.

    Base Medium

    • Live sand provides a base for live rock and corals in a marine aquarium. Without a base of sand, live rock and corals have no way to take root and grow. The sand anchors these materials in place and reduces the risk of damage to the coral and live rock.

    Appearance

    • Live sand and rock provide a natural appearance for saltwater aquariums. These substances occur in nature, so using them in aquariums also creates a more natural environment for saltwater organisms. Aquarium owners can add plants and other decorative items to enhance this natural environment.