live sand vs. live rock

[polarice18]

can a saltwater tank flourish with just live sand as appose to live rock or a mix of the two

 

[maverick005]

it would work, although the LR serves as a filtration system also...but i dont know a whole lot about it so...hopefully someone will chime in.
HTH
-brandon

 

[wyldgunz]

You can use just live rock with an argonite or sand substate but most people will use some live sand to seed their substrate so you get micro life population growing faster. I recomend using both you only need a little bit of live sand mixed in with your substrate so it doesnt cost much.
Also Live rock is a good idea in any tank as it provides the tank with "homes" for your micro critters that keep thee tank going .. Live rocks increses the load your tank can handle

 

[beaslbob]

neither LR or LS are absolutly necessary. A thriving tank is possible with neither.

 

[wyldgunz]

Dont forget as long as its a fish only tank hehe