Reusing Sand from one tank to another

msudawgs56 · 06/07/2007, 03:39 PM

Hi All,

I have a quick question. I would like to use some sand from one of my older tanks that I have broken down to put in my new 125 gallon. I have washed it really well and have it drying out in the sun. Will this be ok....???

kevin2000 · 06/07/2007, 03:49 PM

In general yes.

However there are some who would argue that calcium carbonate/aragonite can absorb phosphates which can then leach out into your new tank creating algae issues. I suppose that may be true since aragonite substrates are made of the same stuff live rock is and there are plenty of posts concerning that potential.

If the substrate came from a "dirty tank" (preditor tank or old tank prone to cronic algae problems) I would have some concerns.

If you think this may be a phosphate problem substrate I am unsure if there is a bonafide cure other than tossing it.

06/07/2007, 03:39 PM	#1
msudawgs56 Go Dawgs! Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Mississippi Posts: 170	Reusing Sand from one tank to another Hi All, I have a quick question. I would like to use some sand from one of my older tanks that I have broken down to put in my new 125 gallon. I have washed it really well and have it drying out in the sun. Will this be ok....??? __________________ Mississippi State University Bulldogs!

06/07/2007, 03:49 PM	#2
kevin2000 Registered Member Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Portland, Oregon Posts: 3,805	In general yes. However there are some who would argue that calcium carbonate/aragonite can absorb phosphates which can then leach out into your new tank creating algae issues. I suppose that may be true since aragonite substrates are made of the same stuff live rock is and there are plenty of posts concerning that potential. If the substrate came from a "dirty tank" (preditor tank or old tank prone to cronic algae problems) I would have some concerns. If you think this may be a phosphate problem substrate I am unsure if there is a bonafide cure other than tossing it.