What Live Sand Is and How It Is Used in a Saltwater Aquarium

The aquarium should include inhabitants that will stir or turn over the live sand. These animals are referred to as sand stirrers or sifters, or tank/reef janitors, custodians or cleaners. Natural detrivoirs recommended are various types of Hermit Crabs, Shrimps, Crabs & Sea Urchins, Sea Cucumbers & Starfishes, as well as sand sifting fish like Gobies, Mandarinfishes and Jawfishes. Before adding janitors of any kind, it is important to learn about them first. Do your research on animal compatibility, dietary requirements (especially when it comes to the fish named), and be sure that the animals you choose are not toxic, like some cucumbers are, or dangerous in other ways to other tank inhabitants.

With a sufficient amount and the right mix of reef janitors, a live sand bed should not need to be deep siphon cleaned. Don't get us wrong here, it is still important to follow good a maintenance routine. Taking the time to siphon any uneaten foods or excess debris off the "surface" of the sand bed, or from in between the rocks should still be regularly done when needed. In closing we would like to say that working with live sand is the same as with live rock. Test the water parameters to see what is happening in the aquarium, only add new occupants SLOWLY (one or two at a time), and only when the tank has completely settled through the cycling process, or any recycling that may occur after adding any type of new introduction. Patience and time are the key factors here, TAKE IT SLOW AND LET IT GROW!

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