live sand on the shelf?

[elguapo]

I went into *****(deathco) today just to look around since its the only fish place within a couple minutes and I noticed Live Sand in a sealed bag on the shelves. I thought it was kinda suspect but it claimed "instant cycle with beneficial bacteria". Can bacteria even survive in a sealed plastic bag for months on end? i thought it was just another scam but I figured I'd float it on here.
-gabe

 

[cprdnick]

My LS came from a plastic bag. That's actually a common product. As far as instant cycle, I have no clue. The bags should have a shelf life printed on them. Most of the time it's pretty expensive buying it this way though.

 

[dreeves]

This is only sand colonized with bacteria...it has an expiration date...and as long as it is within the expiration date, and wet, it should be ok...as for the instant cycling...no such thing...
One thing to consider with this type of sand...how was it stored prior to your purchase...especially this time of year...was it stored in a non temp controlled facility where it was allowed to freeze? Many variables...

 

[warlockgp]

i bought it and are cycled already but i c no critters..............
I should just get some LR and base rock and hope...........

 

[jeepboy]

I've only seen live sand in prepackaged bags at the LFS. Where do you get live sand that is not prepackaged?

 

[cprdnick]

You are about 99 % guaranteed that you won't get any critters with the pre-packaged LS. I would get a scoop or two of the junk off of the bottom of a LFS curing tank, that'll have a bunch of critters.

 

[yae4volcom]

I also got my LS from a bag. It is really great stuff and helped my tank cycle quickly. The only major draw-back is the lack of critters, but other than that it is great.

 

[elguapo]

i dont know i just look at it as one more thing they charge for when you can just seed your own sand with a cup of live sand for so much cheaper....
-gabe

 

[lazy east911]

i baught my LS from a bag, or i should say several bags. but honestly i wouldnt buy anything for your tank from *****. or ask any questions for that matter, most of the guys ther dont kno anything ther talking bout. but then again i baught my eel from ther a year ago, and hes still alive, but maybe thats because he was only ther a couple of days, and was a very small baby.