sand

Question
starting new 120gl tank I like the black sand was told it does not buffer could you explain #2  if planning a reef w/lots of asst corals is a calcium reactor important

Answer
Hello Michael,

Black sand is actually volcanic rock, and is not the typical 'calcium based /aragonite material that sand we use in aquarium are used to using.

This does not mean you can not use it.

BUT, everyone that i Know that tried it, ended up not liking it very quickly after starting thier aquariums.

It will show up all kinds of detritus and algae and other nasty looking crap.  so, unless you intend on maintaining your tank more often then most, I would suggest against it.


As for the calcium reactor, yes, you are kind of correct in the way you ask y our question...

A caclium reactor is really a matter of convenience, not importance...  If you do lots of water changes and if you dont have lots of 'hard corals' and otehr factors, you may get away without a calcium reactor.

I always suggest to not buy one until you know you will benefit from it, as this will also make you use other products, (two part solutions, or bionic additives)

This will help you understand the chemistry involved, and more important, help you identify how much calcium your tank uses.

This is vitally important... it is possible to see calcium use over time... If this 'demand' is great and you find yourself dosing often, and or seeing 'ups and downs' in calcium levels, then a calcium reactor might be good for you...


Good luck, and please let me know what you end up doing and how they work out for you.


Bill