How to Use Sand in a Fresh Water Aquarium

Decorating your fish tank has two benefits: to make it look good and to make it a healthy place for your fish. Sand and gravel are often used in freshwater aquariums, not only because they are more decorative than a plain floor, but because they enable good bacteria to develop in the sand, which is beneficial to your fish. You may prefer to use sand as a base and other materials layered on top, or use sand exclusively.

Things You'll Need

  • A pound of sand
  • Fresh water tank
  • Scoop
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Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sand

    • 1

      Choose your sand. Some sands are too fine for freshwater aquariums as they don't allow oxygen to penetrate the compacted areas and can become dangerous to your fish. Also, some fish are irritated by small, particles of sand.

    • 2

      Consider the color of the sand. Light-colored sand works well with dark-colored fish and dark-colored sand with light-colored fish. Some fish owners may prefer natural-looking sand, rather than bright colors, but this is purely aesthetic.

    • 3

      Use about a pound of sand for your tank, but use slightly more if you are using live plants.

    • 4

      Rinse the sand in tap water. It is important to ensure the sand is clean before putting it in your freshwater aquarium. Rinse, drain and then repeat the process until the water runs clear.

    Fill Your Tank

    • 5

      Scoop the sand into your empty and clean tank. Build about 2 to 3 inches if you are using live plants or less if you are not.

    • 6

      Plant the live plants into the sand, and add any other decorations you are using. If you wish, you can add layers of other substrates to your sand, such as gravel.

    • 7

      Fill the tank with water carefully and allow the sand to settle.