Bio filter in play sand?

[Don Trinko]

Is play sand pourous enough to add th the bio filtering of the tank? I presume it would be a minor effect since the water circulation thru it is minimal? Don T.

[Dkarc@Aol.com]

Im assuming you're talking about a fluidized sand filter. When using sand as a biological medium, I believe the majority of the bacteria colonize on the exterior of the sand grain rather than inside like some traditional bio medias.

-Ryan

[Discus-Hans]

and play sand is better NOT to use (if it's the same as in Holland) play sand has clay mixed in it to "stick" better when we are building sand castles for our kids,

Hans

[Don Trinko]

I am using the sand on the bottom of the tank to hold down the fake plants. I washed it and it didn't apear to have any clay in it. Thanks; Don T.

[Graham]

Don, play sand around here is pure silica and is not porous. It would also pack so tightly that any colonization of nitrifiers would just be on the surface.

I's use it for looks and not bio benefits

[Don Trinko]

thanks; I'm using it because it's cheap!! Don T.