Substrate for Cichlids. White Sand.

[Griff88]

Hi,

I have got everything I need to set up a African Cichlid tank except the substrate.

I really want a white or light coloured sand but I'm not sure which one to buy.

Coral sand I have read will buffer the PH but is this white or more of a cream colour?

Can anyone recommend anything?

Thanks

[fr499y]

Coral is more creamy with bits of pink etc in.



You can go with normal sand if you want and use 'ocean rock' or seiryu stone (Mini landscape rock) as they both buffer the water.

[Martinspuddle]

I will say coral sand although 'creamy' in colour does look white under aquarium lights.

[fr499y]

Personally, white sand looks out of place in most tanks, only because I like more natural colours

[Griff88]

Yeah I here what your saying about white being unnatural but I do like the look of it personally.

This has caught my eye though and looks more natural.
https://www.fishkeeper.co.uk/stories/ne ... oral-sands

[Martinspuddle]

Personally, white sand looks out of place in most tanks, only because I like more natural colours

Only place I like white sand is in a reef aquarium.

Coral sand I have read will buffer the PH

@Griff88, just what is your local water supply pH?

You may not have to buffer it at all.

[Martinspuddle]

Don't know if you've ever viewed Malawi and Tanganylkan Cichlid habitats but here's couple of videos that will give and idea.

[Griff88]

Thanks mate. Appreciate the videos!

I haven't got around to checking my PH recently but from memory it's around 7. Will be testing tomorrow though when I'm home for the weekend.