Best sand for cichlid tanks

[dawnfox]

I'm setting up a new cichlid tank and need advice on the best sand substrate. I've heard mixed things about pool filter sand versus aragonite. What's your experience?

[oakdale]

Pool filter sand is cheap and works fine, but it doesn't buffer pH like aragonite. If you've got African cichlids, aragonite might be better. Just my two cents.

[Lyriqx]

Aragonite is ideal for African cichlids because it maintains a higher pH and adds calcium. I've used CaribSea Arag-Alive in my 75-gallon tank for years, and the water stays stable at 8.2 pH. Pool filter sand is inert, so you'll need to monitor pH more closely.

[barracke]

Aragonite is ideal for African cichlids because it maintains a higher pH and adds calcium. I've used CaribSea Arag-Alive in my 75-gallon tank for years, and the water stays stable at 8.2 pH. Pool filter sand is inert, so you'll need to monitor pH more closely.

That's true, but aragonite can be pricey. If you're on a budget, pool filter sand with crushed coral in the filter works too.

[vicky99]

I've used both, and honestly, my cichlids dig just as much in pool filter sand. It's easier to clean too. Aragonite looks nicer, though.

[Fuegoz]

Yeah, pool filter sand is chill for South American cichlids. They don't need the high pH like Africans. Just make sure it's fine enough so they don't cut themselves.

[onyxfin]

I prefer aragonite for the buffering capacity. It's worth the extra cost if you're keeping Malawi or Tanganyikan cichlids. Pool filter sand is fine for others.

[dawnfox]

Thanks for the input, everyone. I'll probably go with aragonite since I'm planning on African cichlids.

[Lyriqx]

Good choice. Just remember to rinse it well before adding it to the tank. Aragonite can be dusty out of the bag.

[oakdale]

I've used both, and honestly, my cichlids dig just as much in pool filter sand. It's easier to clean too. Aragonite looks nicer, though.

True, but if you're gonna do Africans, aragonite is the way to go. Pool sand is sketchy for long-term pH stability.