Deep Sand Bed

[Aquareef123]

Hi,

I have been out of marine for quite some time and recently started to get back into the hobby. Just want to check if DSB is still an "in-thing" now or it has been out of fashion? How many reefer in Singapore still use DSB and what sand do you use? How deep is the sand bed?

Are we supposed to change out the sand after 3-5 years? How long does it take for the DSB to mature?

If not DSB, what else to use (other than macroalgae) to export PO4 and NO3? Thanks.

[iskay]

Nowadays is algae scrubber, biosphere, bio pellets, etc...

Nothing beats regular water change.

[JoeyBabooey]

I must admit that i fell for the DSB trend when i first started. I kind of regret. I found it hard to maintain if algae grows on the glass beneath the sandbed as well as i'd rather put in more water than more sand. And i do not physically see any major reduction in nitrate and the tank has been running for over 7 months now. Also read that the DSB has the potential to cause more bad than good down the road. Looking back, its more of an old school method.

I would personally invest in a fluidized reactors for PO4 and NO3 export. At least thats what i'll do for my new tank.

[solasido]

an option to ease maintenance, buy jerry can, cut it 15 cm height and use it as the container for the DSB in the sump. When need to change after 2 years just pull the jerry can up and replace the sand.

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