Live Sand experts needed!!

[goofieones]

Okay, I am getting sick of the crushed shells and am going to change to live sand. My questions are: How many inches of sand bed do you recommed, and how many pounds do you think are needed for a 72gal bow? I have read earlier posts on how to do the actual change, so I think I can handle that. Also how often, if ever do you have to vacuum the sand?
Thanks

 

[jimi]

Well first I am by no means an expert but usually 3 to 4 in of sand will do. As far as calculation do a search you should find how much you need. Most "experts" dont recommend vacuuming dsbs, you can disturb the very top a little to dislodge any debris then suck it up.

 

[cosmosbasement]

A deep sand bed should be anywhere from 4 to 6 inches. No need to vaccum, just get some sand sifters. There's a really nice burrowing star fish out there in the market that does a great job. Some Blennies do and gobbies are great. As in lbs? Not sure really but I have a 55 gallon and I used about three bags of Nature's Ocean and mixed it with about 10 pounds of quick crete play sterillized play sand from home depot. WOrked for me. Also, I kept my crushed coral substrat in my tank. took some out and vacuumed the rest. Then put fiberglass screening over the top of it so it wouldn't mix with the sand. It creates a deep sand bad and a place from my tinny critters to escape from the starfish and crabs that eat'em. Looks and works great.
peace
doug