Sand Vacuuming

I don't vac mine but if you want to i would use a vac with a valve on it so u can slow it down or you will lose some sand.

 

you can you a python just keep the hose kinked with your other hand and it wont suck up the sand

 

can you stir the sand around to remove algae

 

If you are talking about red slime algae "witch is actually a type of bacteria " it won't do any good it will come right back.

 

i recommend vacuuming out that DSB. The dark cloud of filth living in there can cause a lot of problems... when you are dumping buckets of black water down the drain you will understand what i mean. in my opinion a DSB is overrated. I have been getting closer and closer to going bare bottom all the time.

 

I've never really cleaned mine on purpose  but I only run 1-2".
Sand sifting gobies (watchman, etc.), certain starfish, and various snails will clean it naturally.
Just my $.02 worth.

 

I know very little about the benefits either way, but the sand sifting gobies are entertaining to watch. I'm planning on going with a 1" or so sandbed when I setup my next tank.

--AJ

 

The purpose of a DSB is to get rid of nitrate naturally. Anaerobic conditions in the DSB promote bacteria that convert NO3 to N2 gas.

 

I have a 2-3" sand bed and I use my python to clean it the best I can. I do loose some sand but I just think thats part of it and if I need to I will add more sand.

 

I don't think there is anything wrong with vacuuming the surface. I wouldn't recommend stirring it up below the top inch though. There is a lot of nasty stuff deep down. If you ever replace your sand bed/tear down your tank you will know what I mean, the smell will be awful and the water will turn black. /DesktopModules/ActiveForums/themes/_default/emoticons/wink.gif