Deep Sand bed Benefits

Discussion in 'Sand' started by Exactozack, Apr 27, 2012.

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  1. Exactozack

    Exactozack Plankton

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    Baytown, Texas, United States
    What are the benefits of having a deep sand , i currently have a 1inch sandbed
     
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  3. NanaReefer

    NanaReefer Fu Manchu Lion Fish

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    IMO there is none. So ... What are the drawbacks to having a DSB? Number one, of course is that, if you don't have the sand stirrers to consume detritus and uneaten food, as well keep the substrate free of gas pockets, the sand can turn into a toxic gas factory. Number two is that, without the nitrate consuming plenum, there is really no point in including a DSB in your system.
     
  4. Mr. Bill

    Mr. Bill Native Floridian

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    If installed and maintained properly, the DSB provides natural nitrate reduction (NNR) with the development of anaerobic bacteriums in the lower regions. There are many unresolved debates on the issue, including that of the plenum and the need for sand-sifters; however, I do agree that the risks outweigh the benefits 10 to 1. One can achieve equal NNR much more safely with a ball of chaeto in a HOB fuge.
     
  5. loneracer05

    loneracer05 Clown Trigger

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    To add a positive point,there are tons of beautiful wrasses and other fish that benefit from a dsb.
     
  6. Midnight_Madman

    Midnight_Madman Montipora Digitata

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  7. m2434

    m2434 Giant Squid

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    The idea that nitrate reduction occurs in lower region is mostly an old wives tale IMHO. The upper regions is as capable, if not more capable of harboring facultative bacteria. Basically the bacteria, in our systems, that reduces nitrogen, needs low O2, not "no O2". As shown in de Beer et al. 1994 "Effects of biofilm structures on oxygen distribution and mass transport", low O2 areas occur within fractions of a millimeter, within the biofilms on the surface of the substrate.

    de Beer et al. isn't freely available, but is summarized here: http://www.cs.montana.edu/webworks/...pters/chapter010/section003/blue/page001.html

    [​IMG]

    DSBs are great if you like the look, or want lots of neat benthic organisms though!