biological filtration

[ramba]

I was wondering if I could use live sand and live rock as the only means of filtration in a 55 gallon. If so, how much of each would I need ? I have read some posts about the play sand, but I'm not sure if it can be "seeded" by live rock or if one needs to get a certain amount of live sand to mix with it. Thanks!

 

[luvnluk]

You can definately rely on just biological filtration with LR/LS. A DSB 4-6" and at least 1-1.5 lbs./gal. of LR is recommended, depending on your bio-load. The LR will seed the sand with beneficial bacteria - although adding any amount of live sand for a DSB wouldn't hurt, either. I would also get a good clean-up crew. I have a 55 with biological, only.

 

[ramba]

Thank you, luvnluk. What kind of sand did you use?

 

[luvnluk]

Argonite, Southdown play sand and a big scoop of sand from a friends established tank. Are you going to have a reef or a fish only?

 

[ramba]

It's going to be a reef tank. I have had a 55 gallon fish only for a year and just got a new 55 gallon for my birthday.

 

[luvnluk]

Oh, wow, have fun! Well, then I guess I have 5 more months to wait - thankfully, this hobby has taught me to have patience!

 

[joerdie]

you should be okay doing this you just have to watch a little more carefully. make sure to use arragonite and NOT cc. you probably already know this but just in case. good luck!!

 

[bas12547]

How do you run things like a phospate sponge with out some sort of power filter?
I have also found myself in a position where I needed to run carbon for a few days to clean things up. How would run that?
Brian

 

[luvnluk]

Good question! I have a HOT Magnum filter that I used to run when I needed carbon and/or phosphate sponges. I haven't needed it for a while so now it is empty and runs for surface agitation. A refugium is a beneficial addition!

 

[david s]

If you use Playsand make sure it is southdown look at home depot for it that is were you will find it

 

[ramba]

Went to Home Depot today and they did not have Southdown brand. Maybe it is only sold "back East" ? They had playsand, but it was a different brand. Anybody out West here find southdown playsand?Thanks!

 

[northshore]

I'm here in San Jose, California....the sand is called PlaySand from the beaches in Monterey, CA...kiln dried and fine....30MESH....thas what it says on the bag.....3 bucks for 50lbs