what do i do about flakes caught in the substrate?

Question

I used little rocks as substrate for my small tank, and everytime i feed my fish some of the flakes get lodged in the bottom in between the rocks. I use a siphon to clean what i can but there are some that get left behind.

I heard that it was not a good idea to move the rocks around, is that true?

Also, i am thinking about changing the substrate with sand. How should I go about doing this?

Answer 1

Sand probably wouldn't be any better. The siphon and the filter are the only ways I know of to physically remove the food, but it should break down on its own without any problems if the tank has been cycled correctly. Also, try not to feed the fish as many flakes if this is happening every time. I know some of it can't be avoided, especially if you have mid to bottom feeders who won't eat from the surface, but it shouldn't be happening every time.

Answer 2

Theres always going to be a little left behind, you are doing a good job using the siphon. Just make sure you make it suck at the substrate so that you get as many flakes out as possible. As long as you do regular water changes with the siphon, you shouldn't need to worry about leaving a few flakes behind.

It doesn't really matter if you move the substrate rocks around, as long as no fish get caught underneath them.

As for changing your substrate to sand, it depends on the type of fish you have. However, it may be quite a bit more difficult to clean the tank with the siphon as the sand may get sucked up as well.

Answer 3

Ground scavengers such as cory catfish and Ghost Shrimp will clean up the bottom of your tank. I find that cory cats move a little too fast to notice the food, while you have to "persuade" the ghost shrimp with the net to the flakes.

Sand will make the flakes stand out more for the scavengers, but it is much harder to vacuum, so I'd stick with gravel.

~ZTM

Answer 4

get some scavengers, such as crabs, upside down cats etc. they'll eat alot of the flakes. the other problem is your overfeeding. I think they say only put enough food out that will be completely eaten in a couple of minutes

Answer 5

If you have the room in your tank, a few cory catfish or a few glass shrimp would be just the ticket to clean those up for you.

Sand wold make it easier to see, but certainly not easier to clean up.

MM