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Best Substrate for DSB

R

RevClyburn

Hey everyone

I'm about to change my substrate, don't really like the h/d play sand I current have in it. I also think it may be the reason I have a hair algae forest growing. So, I want to take it out. What is the best substrate for a DSB? I used to have 4 inches of Southdown, but that's not available anymore, so I need something similar, maybe not as sugary. I'm think of using CaribSea Aragonite reef grade, since it comes in 40 lb bags, but not sure about the grain, is it to big?

Edwin
 
K

KillaGoby

The smaller the grain size the better. I use Kent's refugium substrate in my RDSB. It is very fine. This should lead to proper di-nitrification with the correct depth. Have you though about doing a SSB in the tank with a RDSB? That is preferred over a DSB in the tank. Also, I have heard with DSB's you can do 2 layers. One small grain sized, while the other can be a bit larger. Usually 4" is a good depth to start. Check out articles in Reefkeeping Magazine, Reef Central, and Advanced Aquarist's Magazine for more info...
 
A

AnDom1

Rev

The answer depends on whether the DSB is to be the MAIN method of filtration.....If yes, then you'll need 4-6" (probably closer to 6") of very fine, oolitic sized sand. Carib Sea has it, but I'm not sure if they have 40lb. bags.

If the DSB is NOT to be the main filter, ie you have lots of Live Rock, water movement and a good skimmer, then 4" or less of Carib Sea reef grade sand will do nicely. Nature's Ocean also has reef sands of varying grain sizes. I personally
would not use the smallest of the non-oolitic grains. I have some in a Nano and it tends to kick up at the slightest movement.

In either case, Aragonite sand is OK.

Dom
 
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