Can I use Gravel?

aquaferg

aquaferg

Member
I have a 36 FW tank that we are thinking of converting to a SW tank. I was thinking of keeping the gravel substrate in there just because of aesthetic reasons and also because I think would rather vacuum it than anything else. It would be an aggressive tank so I couldn't have a cleaner crew and I really would not want a power head. I have two Penguin 200 HOB filters on it so that would stay. My question is, other than looking strange is there a problem with a gravel SW tank? Anyone ever seen one?
 
michaeltx

michaeltx

Moderator
you can it will take a lot of upkeep and buffering. sand and CC help keep calcium and PH up as it breaks down.
something I would be worried about would be the paint or dye they use on the FW gravel.
all in all I wouldnt do I would get the right stuff and not have the hassle that may come up later on.
Mike
 
el guapo

el guapo

Active Member
I agree with the shark on this one . Your just asking for problems . Use sand and do it right the first time other wise your going to end up taking it down or redoing it and it will just cost you in the long run .
 
srfisher17

srfisher17

Active Member
Originally Posted by aquaferg
http:///forum/post/2623956
Good point, that would be a real pain/ Thanks for the input.
Changing gravel to sand in a 36 gal tank shouldn't be much of a job or expense; really a very small part of the conversion. Even natural FW gravel has a lot of unknown minerals, etc . that would possibly break down in SW. Most SW substrates are easy to vac.
 
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