Where can I buy Silica (blasting) sand for my aquarium substrate?

Question

I went to my local Home Depot and found myself some Play Sand, but I ended up not liking the color or the amount of cleaning it needed. I have heard that Silica Sand is much lighter and nicer to deal with for freshwater aquariums, and it won't affect the water chemistry much if at all. There is just one problem, I can't find it anywhere! Does it go under any other names?

Answer 1

Instead of silica sand (which will encourage diatom growth and is VERY light, and easily moved by fish and picked up by filters), you might prefer diatomaceous earth (pool filter sand). It has very similar colors, and (if you are planting your tank) provides nutrients vital for plant growth (but not algae growth). It is also a bit heavier, so it will not be constantly flicked into suspension by fish, making it a threat to your filter's impeller. This sand is still extremely cheap; 50 pounds will cost you $10 or less... Feel free to email me if you have any questions.

Soop Nazi

EDIT: Thanks Tiki. Most of the pool sand I'm using right now is pretty light (standard) but there is also sand composed mainly of zeolite that is a gray/green color which I use a bit of (it is higher in nutrients for plants). A mixture makes a really nice affect, especially if you have any darkly colored fish which contrast nicely with the sand.

Answer 2

Where To Buy Silica Sand

Answer 3

Hi, Either is good with a couple of points to bear in mind. Aquarium sand is excellent for the fish to grub around in but needs a little more care in cleaning than gravel. Regarding the gravel it's best to use one of the many smooth, round 3mm types. This is because the rough, pea-sized gravels present a very real danger to the fish as they can get stuck in their mouths & choke them. Goldfish are not 'Coldwater' fish in the respect they don't do well in icy water. Neither are they truly 'tropical' so it is not good to mix them with these types. An acceptable temperature range is anywhere between 69 to 78F ie 'room temperature'.

Answer 4

Soup dude's right don't know why he got a neg, don't want to use a silica sand, will promote brown algae/diatoms. Play sand or pool filter sand is better. I believe the pool filter sand is a darker color then the play sand.

Answer 5

Look at a stained glass or glass working supply house. It's very expensive, though. I used to use it for sand blasting designs on doors and windows.

Answer 6

Try an auto body shop.. That's where I get mine.. if nothing else you should be able to ask them if they know of a sand blasting place that might have it..

Answer 7

Try a building supply store or brand type paint supply stores