Deep Sand Beds

[Onbags5]

I would like to get some serious answers on "Deep Sand beds"

1. Deep sand Bed good or Bad...?

2. Any Pro's / Con's w/ a deep sand bed...?

3. Do "Deep Sand Bed's" help lower NITRATE...?


Would love to get some serious feedback asap.

Im considering doing one but would need to be really really convinced. I like the looks of a shallow sand bed....?

Thanks.

 

[ASommers]

Run a remote deep sand bed. No cons that way. Just a bucket full of sand. Yes they help reduce nitrates.

 

[bbehring]

I've had a 5"+ DSB in my display for 2 years now. It's been ok, but definately takes away volume and height in the DT. I keep mine stirred frequently and also use sand sifters. I had a DSB in my fuge, but removed it as it became a nutrient sink. If I had it to over again, I'd go with about 1 1/2" of sand in my DT and do a remote DSB in a bucket as asommers mentioned.

From my point of view:
Pros: can keep lots of sand dwelers, wrasses, and sand gobys. Provides denitrification
Cons: takes away volume from your display. Sand can become an eyesore against the glass panel. Can become a nutrient sink.

 

[poi dog]

Here's a point of view:

http://www.ronshimek.com/deep_sand_beds.html