Sand vs Gravel

[Maxbellck]

I have always used gravel in my aquariums, but I have really started to notice how cool tanks setup with sand look.

Anyone have feelings one way or the other as to why they might recommend one over the other?

GB

 

[skjl47]

Hello; I prefer gravel over sand. Sand tends to pack, is difficult to clean, The fine material tends to get stirred up and damages filter parts as it moves thru. Plants do not seem to grow as well. Some have reported that deep sand will enhance the growth of bacteria toxins that can be released into a tank, so they limit it's depth. Sand has developed an unsightly band of green algae near the surface for me. Sand seems too light to bring out the deep colors of the fish the way a dark gravel will. All that said I imagine there are ways to deal with all the sand issues.
If you like the color, one way is to sift the fine material out and only keep the sand particles about bb sized and larger.

 

[BLTV]

Gravel sand sticks and can make ur tank blurry

 

[steve535]

I had gravel for many years and made the switch about a year ago to sand. Grave is much easer to maintain but I happen to like the look of sand in my currant set up. I have no problems with cloudy water and using a python I dont suck up much at all.