Can't find southdown, what else to use?

[cprdnick]

Originally posted by Birdy
from what I understand, the pH in your tank would have to be very low, like 7.0 for the aragonite to break down and buffer the tank. So really the substrate doesn't do too much for buffering. I do use aragonite substrate in my tanks, it looks better, and Bang did an experiment to see what the worms did best in and it seemed to be aragonite sand. So I use it, there are no what if's involved and that is the way I like my tanks.
AMEN Momma.
BTW: Silica is only a carcinogen when the dust is inhaled into the lungs. Given that our fish don't have lungs I doubt they'll be dying of mesothelioma anytime soon.

 

[bang guy]

Sand blasting sand should work very well as it's usually pure, small grained, with smooth sand grains.
I saw a lot of misinformation here in this thread. I believe a few people are confusing Silica with Silicates. It's Silicates that you should steer away from to avoid continuing Diatom blooms. Silica = glass and is harmless unless it has been crushed and has rough or sharp edges.
Bang

 

[bigsteve]

I'm one of those people I guess. Thanks for clearing that up Bang Guy. :joy:

 

[cprdnick]

I am too, but I always thought that silica could precipitate silicates?

 

[marlins #1]

I got Live Sand from the Ocean here in MIAMI BEACH, FL.
Is that good, I know its like the one they sell in the pet stores here in this area.
They give it to you wet with some water.
Also, Is it bad not to have any Crushed Coral or any type of small rocks,
All I set up is sand over the UnderGravel.
Was that a Mistake.
Thanks.