How Do You Set Up A Reef Aquarium Using Live Sand?
Most saltwater aquariums, like their natural counterparts, have a white sandy bottom. When setting up a saltwater aquarium you are left with the decision however, to use either dry or live sand. Live sand is always the better choice as it is already filled with the beneficial nitrifying bacteria that will aid in keeping your tank clean and balanced. This article contains all the info that you will need to set up your own saltwater reef tank using live sand. Set the aquarium up with all the pumps and dry goods that will be used. Fill the tank with water. Add salt to the tank at a ration of 1 cup for every 2 gallons of water. This will bring your specific gravity to a level of 1.023–this can be adjusted up or down later depending on your preference. Let the tank run so that the salt is thoroughly mixed into the water. This varies from tank to tank depending on flow, so let it mix for 1 hour to be on the safe side. Remove 1/10 of the water to lower the level of the tank enough that when