Is sand a good substrate?

DeCypher

DeCypher

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I've been looking for a new substrate, and sand looks good. I only have one problem though. Live blackworms and earthworms are their favorites, but wouldn't they bury themselves and never be found again?
 
Are you thinking of sand for aquatic or terrestrial setups? I would recommend for aquatic, but not terrestrial. Yes, blackworms will bury in it, but earthworms generally can't dig under water. Keep it to a very thin layer *or* don't use blackworms in those tanks that have sand.
 
It is for aquatic. How would I clean out the sand (I can't obviously use a siphon).
 
As in general routine maintenance?

If thats the question yes you do use a siphon. Just be more cautious and patient. Keep it about a inch off the surface. All the detritus and what not will come off the surface and the sand will be left behind.
 
If you're going sand in an aquatic tank, just make sure you wash it first. When I added to mine, it clouded up horribly for the first 24 hours. After that was a gradual clearing involving several prematurely replaced filter pads.

Sadly, I have not found a better method for cleaning it than just waiting it out with filters on. I'm sure Google could enlighten.
 
Compared to other substrates (gravel, bare-bottom, etc.) is it overall a better choice?
 
Depending on the species you'll have on the tank, but generally speaking is a good choice.

Silica sand is used for fish tanks and works well, because It doesn't spread any chemical into water and doesn't change water values. It's also used in swiimming pool filters and sold very cheap in big sacs.
 
It's red-spotted newts. Does anybody use sand as a substrate for this species?
 
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