sand in my tank

Question
i  put play sand in my tank for my s.american cichlids  how long will my tank look like the murky waters of the amazon? will it clear up or did i make a bad decision with the play sand?

Answer
Hi Kevin: all gravel and sand should be rinsed before you put it into the tank... or it will cloud your water.  The sand should settle in a day or two if it doesn't... turn off the bubbler and just let it filter.   South American Cichlids do just fine with small gravel as well... dave