To DSB or not to DSB

btucker7587 · 11/19/2014, 09:20 PM

What is the general opinion of the DSB? I have done a LOT of research on it and see that there are varying opinions on the topic.

I am getting ready to start a new tank and I am a big fan of keeping detritivore's in my sand, which usually leads me to believe I should be using a DSB.

Yes, after a while the DSB can become a nutrient sink and disturbing it after extended periods can actually cause a crash. but is that such a problem that I should avoid it entirely?

All opinions are welcome. I head out to get my sand this weekend...just wanted last minute input before I decided on how much sand to get.

Potsy · 11/19/2014, 10:02 PM

It's not a popular methodology anymore. Carbon dosing seems to have replaced it as a more controllable method for lowering nitrates and phosphates.

BryanS4 · 11/19/2014, 10:05 PM

No sand at all. Bare bottom is where it's at.

btucker7587 · 11/19/2014, 10:47 PM

I wouldn't be using it as a means to control nitrates and phosphates...I just like to see the sand critters. I still plan on using a carbon and GFO reactor either way...

Bare bottom...don't want to do it. I know it is easier and practical, but I will have at least an inch of sand down. It's a bit more word, but I am willing to do it.

11/19/2014, 09:20 PM	#1
btucker7587 Registered Member Join Date: Aug 2013 Location: Okinawa, Japan Posts: 305	To DSB or not to DSB What is the general opinion of the DSB? I have done a LOT of research on it and see that there are varying opinions on the topic. I am getting ready to start a new tank and I am a big fan of keeping detritivore's in my sand, which usually leads me to believe I should be using a DSB. Yes, after a while the DSB can become a nutrient sink and disturbing it after extended periods can actually cause a crash. but is that such a problem that I should avoid it entirely? All opinions are welcome. I head out to get my sand this weekend...just wanted last minute input before I decided on how much sand to get. __________________ Building a new one. 150g Reef Current Tank Info: 150 Gallon (60x24x24) Acrylic Reef Tank. Apex Controller, Vertex Omega 150 Skimmer, Reefbreeder 48” LED Lights, 2x Jebao RW 15 Power heads, 2x 300w Heater (Kotobuku), 70 Gallon DIY sump, Jebao UV sterilizer, GFO and Carbon reactors

11/19/2014, 10:47 PM	#4
btucker7587 Registered Member Join Date: Aug 2013 Location: Okinawa, Japan Posts: 305	I wouldn't be using it as a means to control nitrates and phosphates...I just like to see the sand critters. I still plan on using a carbon and GFO reactor either way... Bare bottom...don't want to do it. I know it is easier and practical, but I will have at least an inch of sand down. It's a bit more word, but I am willing to do it. __________________ Building a new one. 150g Reef Current Tank Info: 150 Gallon (60x24x24) Acrylic Reef Tank. Apex Controller, Vertex Omega 150 Skimmer, Reefbreeder 48” LED Lights, 2x Jebao RW 15 Power heads, 2x 300w Heater (Kotobuku), 70 Gallon DIY sump, Jebao UV sterilizer, GFO and Carbon reactors

11/19/2014, 10:02 PM	#2
Potsy Registered Member Join Date: Jun 2001 Location: Kinnelon, NJ Posts: 1,827	It's not a popular methodology anymore. Carbon dosing seems to have replaced it as a more controllable method for lowering nitrates and phosphates.

11/19/2014, 10:05 PM	#3
BryanS4 Registered Member Join Date: Oct 2014 Location: Hernando Beach, FL Posts: 944	No sand at all. Bare bottom is where it's at.