Anerobic gas pockets?

Question

Im thinking about changing my substrate to sand, but im afriad of anerobic gas pockets. What will be added to maintenence to avoid this?

Oh heres a little more info about my tank.
Its a ten gallon with swordtails, once they move to a bigger tank im gonna do sand and want to add cories

Snails are illegal here

Answer 1

There really is nothing to worry about as far as anaerobic bacteria in sand. As long as you vaccuum every week to remove organic matter, there will be nothing for the anaerobid bacteria to feed on. Since it is impossible to really vacuum sand without sucking it up, just make sure to use a stick or something to stir the sand and get all of the crap out into the water before vacuuming.

Answer 2

Well, with sand its not the only thing you have to worry about, theres also algae. The sand will definately turn green if it is not moved often. For the anerobic gas pockets, you can get some malaysian trumpet snails. They dig into the substrate and stay in there through the day and come out during the night.

Answer 3

Simply prod the sand every inch or two all the way to the bottom with a stick or probe of some sort. Even you finger if nothing else. This will prevent the hard sand layer that can cause the conditions that lead to anerobic bacteria build up and the dangerous gases they produce. What many people don't realize is that this can happen in gravel too if you don't vacuum it well enough.

MM

Answer 4

Here are a few suggestions:

*Add Live Plants; hydrogen sulfide production is rare in area of active plant roots.

* A Plenum; these systems are similar to under gravel filters (but with a dfferent purpose).

*Very regular vacuuming of the sand being very careful to manipulate the vacuum bell so as to not suck up sand. If you are having problems with sucking sand into the siphon hose, try kinking the hose with your other hand to slow the out flow to keep sand (or gravel) from being sucked up, this method has worked well for me and my emplyees in my service business.

*Use a very thin layer of sand, about 1/2" inch

Otherwise I would recommend you stay with gravel. Good Luck!

Here is an article about the Aquarium Nitrogen Cylce that also discusses a Plenum:
http://www.americanaquariumproducts.com/Nitrogen_Cycle.html

Answer 5

Here's something I found a while back when looking for info on aerobic and anaerobic bacteria for cycling a tank. It discusses using a sand bed in an aquarium and how to properly care for a tank with one. Maybe you'll find it helpful: http://www.aquaworldaquarium.com/silent_killer.htm