DSB or SB or bare? (1 Viewer)

[NanoCubeKid]

I am starting up a nano cube 28.

First goes the sand.

Deep bed? 2 incher? bare?

that is the question.

if I go sand I want lots of critters in it too.

DSB needs to be at least 4 inches for this tank, yes?

Where can I get lots of critters for the bed?

I was told that simple sugar size is the best ( I really wanted to have some micro shell like puka mixed in or on top for looks)

there are certainly lots on the web and here on sand beds, I did not know if the nano has special needs or what.

Thanks in advance for your advice.

NCK

 

[bdblkta1]

really a personal preference. to me bb doesnt look as nice, ssb is what i have and will have in future tanks, dsb is good for some stuff but you should read up on them, there are a lot of do's and dont's. if you plan to have high flow in the tank you will likely want to avoid the fine stuff because it will blow all over the tank. your specific tank does not have any special requirements. as for critters i think reef cleaners is the place to go for that stuff, very good selection and great prices.

 

[NanoCubeKid]

thanks.

2 things.

1. I was talking more of micro critters like stars and worms etc. the CUC is a must and I will go with about 12 snails and 4 hermits.

2. Yes I think I will go with the 1-2 bed. I was told to stay away from any shell or shell frags and go with sugar sand. I sure love the way the shells look though. But I was told (heard that one before?) that the shells will eventually cause a crash.

 

[bdblkta1]

you can do some of the larger grain sand and some of the shell stuff just purchase some nasarius snails to plow through it. stars and worms can be had by getting someone to give you a cup of sand from their tank, sometimes people have cheato they sell and or give away that has a lot of life in it and lastly some of these things come in on your live rock when purchasing.

 

[NanoCubeKid]

thanks for all the advice.

I am thinking about even going bare bottom now.

Why could not one use a small amount of substrate even in the 1/2 inch deep levels or less and then once in a while vacuum it all out on a water change and rinse it and put it back?

seems like the best of both worlds.

 

[Rotarymagic]

yes a 1inch or less layer is great for aesthetics and doesn't trap anything.

 

[Tempset]

Deep sand beds typically work best with 5" or higher. The goal is to remove ALL oxygen deep in the bed.

Not going to be easy with only 28 gallons.

I recommend a shallow sand bed for looks if you go with lps & softies.

If it's gonna be sps all the way, no sand - heavy insane skimming.