substrate

[Mike L]

 I am setting up a 55 gallon soon and wanted some input from others please.
  Aragonite vs cichlid sand vs pool filter sand.
  Benefits/drawbacks of each.
Mike

[Stussi613]

I've used Aragonite and Pool Filter sand, personally.  I prefer the aragonite because it keeps the PH rock steady, but PFS is much nicer looking.

I have a full bag of PFS in my garage you can have for free if you want to try it out before you commit.

[Mike L]

 Thanks for the offer Stuart. If that is the direction I go I will contact you. Since I changed from the gravel to the aragonite you sold me in my 75 I have indeed noticed a much more stable ph. I have read that aragonite also aids in the control of nitrates due to it's ability to have anaerobic bacteria in it's cell structure. I personally have not noticed this so far but it might be due to the fact that it has not been in the tank long enough.

Controlling ph is the big one though and if there was an alternative to controlling it I would go with the PFS. I do like the look of most of the brands sold locally.
Mike

[ajm1961]

Personally I like the Cichlid sand. I had read a few posts that aragonite can be an irritant for sand sifting cichlids. I know my haps love the CaribSea African Cichlid mix I have down.
But pool sand and aragonite is still a popular choice.
Just my two cents.

[Mike L]

I'm all for PFS since it come's in so many colour choices and is cheap but what about controlling ph If I go that route. At this point I'm leaning towards the expensive routes but was hoping to hear alternatives.