How to Use Sand As a Substrate in a Fresh Water Aquarium

Tropical freshwater fish love sand in their tank as much as humans love sand on a beautiful beach. According to Aqua-fish, "many fish hail from sandy environments in the wild and will love a sandy substrate in the aquarium." Creating an environment that closely reflects the natural habitat of a fish is the task of any responsible fishkeeper. Using sand as a substrate is the first step to happy fish and a happy tank.

Things You'll Need

  • Empty fishtank
  • Aquarium sand
  • 5 gallon bucket
  • Garbage bag
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wash the sand: pour 2 gallons of sand into the 5-gallon bucket. Fill the bucket full of water, and leave it to stand for 1 minute.

    • 2

      Pour away the excess water leaving the wet sand. Run fresh water from a tap while vigorously stirring the sand until the bucket is full. Leave it to stand for 1 minute.

    • 3

      Pour water away and repeat the process until water is clear. Tip the clean sand into the garbage bag and set aside while you continue. Repeat this process until you have enough sand for your tank.

    • 4

      Pour the sand into the empty tank until you have a depth of 1 inch throughout. Smooth over the sand so the substrate is an even surface.

    • 5

      Fill the tank with water.