If you’re having trouble achieving crystal clear aquarium water, I can help! Download my Free ebook with the best tips and advice - KaveManAquatics.com/Free-Ebook
@@musuddin1711 Do you have a pleco? If not get one! Then do a black out for a week, no light or food! But first do 50% water change and scrub as much off as you can, then lights out!
@@simona4442 from UK too, it's definitely the most watchable channel and I like it as he also points out mistakes he made which is good to hear. Sometimes explaining what went wrong is loads more helpful than just telling everyone what to do. Im watching this because im going to try a planted cichlid tank but used a soil underneath about 4cm of gravel, I didn't know they could dig all the way to the bottom of the tank, so now I need to swap out 30kg of substrate in my 240L//70+G tank...
Also, I wanted to offer a cool lil tip that I used when I transferred my sand substrate to a bigger tank. Instead of that plastic scooper. I used a plastic dust pan. Works awesome, fills up the dust pan with a lot of sand, but best part is, if you just tilt the dust pan back, all the water drains out the handle, leaving it full of just wet sand but no loose water. I never new that dust pans have a drain on the handle till recent!💪
Every time I move I use a clean dustpan for a broom to scoop up the substrate, works really well and you can scoop out a ton at once even into the corners
I dare say that when one does what one does well (your "UA-cam Series)and presents it for consumption in an easy to understand and in an informative/educational format that is presented with both a knowledgeable enthusiasm and with a most enjoyable demeanor; KUDOS to you from me and my four budding aquarist grand-children.
Hey Kev. I wanna thank you for inspiring me to get back into the hobby. I was done when I kept losing fish. You brought the passion in fish keeping for me. I have a 55 gallon now. Looking to upgrade to a 90 gallon. Just stacking my supplies now. Thanks again. My All male peacock coming soon
Thanks for the tips. I made the mistake years ago and didn't put enough substrate in, now I'm adding little by little along with quick start so I don't get a bad bacteria bloom. It helps a bunch.
Thanks Ben! I had just added some stability into my filters a few weeks ago, that and the live bacteria in the sand made me feel confident in the BB 😊 Thanks for sharing that tip though! Love your channel Ben 👍
Using live bacteria sand that’s made for salt water doesn’t help. The bb for salt water doesn’t survive in fresh water and can cause an imbalance in your cycle from the bacteria die off.
I had to do the same thing for the same problem. To get the sand out I took a hose like you hook to your pump ran it outside into a bucket and started a siphon. Sucked all the sand out. Worked like a charm and didn't cloud up the water.
I just suck out the substrate out with the 25’ python cleaning tool. Works like a charm, now I only have a tiny bit left in the tank, of course this was each time I did a water change, so it took about 3-4 months
I changed my substrate out for aragonite back a while ago and saw a tip for using a juice or pop liter container to put the rinsed aragonite slurry in, then put it in the tank with water and it pours out without clouding up. It worked. Great videos Kev.
Tonight I switched my substrate from white gravel to the African Cichlid sand and Aragonite in my 125. Thanks for everything Kev I’m leaving a lot. Thinking about investing in your course to go to the next level.
Hey Kevin. I'm glad you gave in and removed the substrate. A lot times people don't want to make changes because of the money involved. I was telling the Ha Y in fish keeper, I will always have back ups for everything that keeps my tank operating. I learned my lesson the hard way. I was brand new in the hobby. I lost (3) 10" Oscars and (2) 8" goldfish because my filter stopped working and I had no mean of getting another one. I did all I could to save them. AnyWHO, I learned too, my tank wasn't nearly big enough for such big fish. It was a 55 gallon. But the goldfish wasn't supposed to be in there. They were supposed to be food. ( I never saw them eat the goldfish) Thanks Kevin.
Bro feel your pain, had to do this about 6 months ago, a Royal Pain in The Butt. Takes an age to get your head around doing it and then an age doing it, but well worth it. Good Job!!!
I did this one time and luckily not on the big tanks but I used new and rinsed Dusk pan, and a Tip to those who wants to change their big tank's gravel to sand use new and rinsed Cat litter scoop.
I did this 2 days back in my 90G, switched from white to black substrate. After looking at the result, l just forgot the painful process. Some forums and UA-camrs insisted about cichlid showing vibrant colors in black substrate since they change their color pattern based on their surrounding. And it really worked.
@@KaveManAquatics yeah I was also thinking that way like how a substrate color decides the fishes color, but it's their natural instinct to survive it seems. For about 2 months I did a research kev, testing it in my 40G. Even I left the fishes without substrate since my tank bottom is itself black that also made a difference. So I gave it a shot in my 90G and yeah I'm glad that it worked becoz I can't do this process again to switching white😂
I’ve given up on sand substrates. Recently I replaced the white sand in my 40gal. tank with 30 lbs. of mixed river gravel. The water has never been clearer and the gravel is so much easier to keep clean. The only real change is having to treat water levels more often, but chemical bacteria really helps balance that out. I wouldn’t use sand unless I cared for exotic fish professionally.
I wanted the African Cichlids but i had black gravel so i change it to white sand for them and I actually did not remove the fish while doing it only 2 died though.
Thats unfortunate brotha. Atleast you figured it out and acted fast. I've been through the same with black sand and my water still had a black tint after washing my sand for a few hours. Like you said wouldn't even wish this upon your own enemy. Always touching important parts of the fish hobby!! Lets goooo💪
I love your info... and the way you put it out... but I won't EVER share your obsession with sparkling water. I want it clean and comfy for my critters... but you go to the MAX. A++ for the effort... and results. You are an aquarium ROCK STAR
@@KaveManAquatics I think that's the thing people miss about the Aquarium hobby... every person gets to build a tank... or tanks... to fit their own tastes and purposes. It really allows for individuality to shine through. I see a million people searching for ONE answer... when they need to realize... there are a MILLION answers to one question... its all relative to your goals and situation.
Tank looks beautiful. That is a complete drag but I think you just keep in mind the end result and the look and happiness of our guys. So it was worth the work. Awesome tank! Now if only my little guys would grow up!
Hi kav glad to see the video we are upgrading to a 90 gallons and I was going to use the same substrate in my old tank in my new tank well I guess I’m not now We will wait until after Christmas to place our order for a new substrate for the new tank thank you so much
I'm upgrading my tank this week and I'm using new substrate. Having the same issues with my substrate blowing around being too light. I have enough beneficial bacteria in both my canisters, sponge filter and decor so I'll be ok once I put my Africans in the new tank the same day.
Hey Kev. I decided to swap my pool filter substrate out for river sand for my Mbuna tank. Thanks for the video. It was super helpful! However, maybe you can use this tip. I used a standard clear hose (no attachments, just hose) to create a syphon and vacuum out the old gravel. Man it worked like a charm!! There was almost no cloudy water during this process and the fish were super chilled. Maybe give that a go for your next change. Just make sure that the hose is wide enough to not get blockages.
For bigger tanks instead of taking water out then scooping the sand out use a big diameter tube and siphon the sand out. Stops it clouding up and less stress for the fish
I’m thinking about changing my substrate 😩 I have a black background & black substrate. I’ve recently changed my fish to discus 🐠 3 of them have turned almost black with very little colour😢 I’m guessing it’s down to the background & substrate ???
I'm in this exact position now! Thanks for the video. Just waiting for my new substrate to be delivered and then the fun can begin! Got my new tank set up and the sand particles have been ruining my enjoyment
Awesome 😎 Once again I was looking for the best Substate for my Tank. I’m just getting all the needed Materials for my Tank, Not gonna get the fish 🐟 until next week Thank Bro, for the Great content , keep up the good Work
Even though its a year later, thank you for this video. It's been years since I've kept fish. I put together a medium freshwater community a month ago. All my parameters are great but I couldn't figure out why my water wasn't clear until I saw this video. It looks like the same sand substrate I purchased. I'll be slowly taking it out and replacing it as I do my water changes.
I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy, either! That is a huge job. Glad you got it sorted out. Your tank is beautiful! My husband wants to know how Flava Flav is doing! 😁
I’ve had to do this before. Once on my 32 and another time on the 75. Man it was a real pita getting it out. Like you I left the fish in, lol they were not happy. I do get what you’re saying with the substate. This is why now I only buy Caribsea and I make sure when washing it that the washing water is crystal clear before adding it to the tank. These mofos are always, and I mean always swimming around with a mouth full of sand looking for food, and I know the feeling of seeing particles floating around. You have a 407 on there right? I’d recommend Fluvals new UV that connects right to the filter. My boy got it, and lemme tell you his water now is crystal clear with zero particles at all floating around. I ordered one already 🤗 Happy Holidays My Bro🙏🏻
Hey Kev, thanks for all the videos here. Always helpful. A few months ago I settled up my 55gal with Jack Dempseys and black sand. I’m planning to change this black substrate for this one in your video because, for one reason, my Dempseys got a dark color so almost don’t see them. What’s your opinion? Would my tank have a better look? Thank you.
I appreciate this info so much. My kids and I are new to the hobby (started November 2022). We decided on a chunky rock bottom since we also have baby turtles, I soon found out that my constant bacterial blooms were from “stuff” hiding under the rocks. Last night, we switched to sand (no small task lol). The aquarium is super clear this morning (I also followed your awesome advice on filter media in my fx4). African cichlids and turtles seem super happy.
Thats awesome, glad to hear your tank is doing well now! 😁 Many beginners get frustrated early on because they dont have good info. I highly suggest you check out my playlist for beginners. It'll be very helpful for you 😁 - ua-cam.com/play/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er.html
yooo Kev i JUST switched to pool filter sand and rushed it, switched from 70lbs of gravel to 70lbs of pool filter sand in about 2 hrs before I had to leave for work. Rinsed it thoroughly the best I could with what I have (large basin with powerful faucet, no garden hose plus it's winter here now) and after watching this video all I have to say is LOL wish me luck. Most of my fish are south american cichlids and not fully grown yet so....hopefully i don't end up with 1 month of cloudy water!
Hey kev! Your tanks are amazing! Hey I was wondering if you think I should switch my substrate years ago when I first set my tank up I had South American cichlids, but now I have all frontosa. Originally, when I set the tank up, I used play sand and as you know that does nothing when it comes to buffering the pH my tab order has a neutral pH at about 7.0- 7.2 I am considering switching out the play sand going with agronite I have a 200 gallon aquarium do you think it is worth the hassle because my fish are very healthy but like you said I don’t want them to survive I want them to thrive😀?
Hi bro, I would like to add sand into my aquarium which don’t have any sand at the moment. Should I move the fish to other tank or can do it by letting them inside the tank? And I do have wavemaker so how to choose the right sand to avoid floating or flying?
I'm switching from gravel to sand but have to keep fish in tank .. mine is only 60 gallon so it will be easier ...and careful . Love your vids brother greetings from serbia and if you have a tip for me on this change.
do you have any videos covering the fluval stratum and it's "buffering" everyone talks about? It sounds like it's something that's just gonna make my tank parameters fluctuate a ton but everyone says they love it.. I'm so confused
Hello did you remove the water from the bag or rinse the sand as this has salt water in it, I have just purchased the same sand for a cichlid tank and would like some advice. Many thanks
Bro..same issue size of the grain...started getting into my fx6..now im gonna black out the tank for my dovii..good video man..210 look like baby oil.. nooo particles at all
I am going to switch the gravel in my 75 gallon tank to CaribSea's Arag-Alive sand. Is this sand good for Angelfish? I have 4 Angelfish in my tank currently. Thanks!
Hello Kev, I really want to change my gravel to sand. I am stuck with not wanting to start a mini cycle in my 75 gallon tank if I change to sand. I have a HOB with two bio-wheels, 407 with two trays of bio media on side has matrix all other are the ceramic rings. I also have one sponge filter running as well. Will I be safe to change to sand. 🤞🏾
Thanks for the videos, they helped me a lot. I’m 6 weeks into this new hobby. Funny this substrate change reminds me of car mods I did previously without proper research. I ended up changing it all out again later again as it made the car handle worse than before lol
Glad it helped, and yea it would suck replacing things in a car too lol Check out this playlist I made for beginners, it'll be very helpful for you - ua-cam.com/play/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er.html
I’m having the same issue! One how did you do it without scratching the glass? And two how much do you think I would need for a 5ft 420 litre tank? I was going to try and syphon it out?
Kev - i have multi-colored gravel in my 29 gallon tank. Its been established for 2 years now. I'm sort of bored with the multi-color gravel. I'm thinking of changing to a solid color, probably white. i want the plants and the fish to really stand out, and my thinking is that a solid color gravel will do that. What do you think ? If I add a thin layer on top of the existing gravel, will that work ? Is this a bad idea ? I don't want to kill the bacteria. Thanks, John
What a pain! Glad you got it straightened out. I'm about ready to add substrate to my new 55 gallon tank and I'm not sure if it matters how much you add. But I've read 1/2 pound per gallon of water up to 2 pounds per gallon. What is correct in your opinion? Thanks!
Thanks Kev! Very knowledgeable Information Brother. I hope I will never have to do this process.. Question.. Can Arag-Alive sand be used in NON reef tanks?
Kave, I was seriously worried when the water went fully cloudy specially I was worried when you add the wood and sand coz couldn't see a thing but in the end it was outstanding job.... Its worth it.... 🥰😍👌👌 I also noticed a black shark in the tank nice..... (I got a Bala shark in my tank) anyway overall its job well done 👍👌👌
Didnt want to go to home depot to rent one, lol plus I was thinking that it would fill up mostly with water before getting all the sand and then I'd have to continue dumping and resetting it 🤷♂️
How did you get your tank's cloudy sand cleared up so quickly? I bought the premium sand of the same brand of your, i added the sand three days ago, and it's still cloudy. Should I use sponge filter, or HOB filer? Thank you!
That premium sand comes with a small packet to help clump up all the loose particles of sand. But its your mechanical media in tyhe filter that has to trap it and remove it. Make sure you have adequite filtration running 24/7
So if I currently have a 75 gallon tank with black gravel would this sand you recommend be a good swap? I’m not liking the gravel look as much… it’s fresh water with 2 blood parrots, 5 green tiger barbs, 2 Odessa’s (going to get 5) and 5 other barbs. The tank is a couple months old. I also wanna add plants to help hide the heater.
I got parrot fish and green terrors and a fire mouth and two silver spotted catfish in my 90g will that new substrate be good for them right now I have playsand from Home Depot ans it’s awful no matter how many times I caccum the waste out soon as I refill the water it looks like I didn’t clean it all
Hey ! Thanks for the content man! I’ve learned a lot from your channel. I am dealing with this exact problem. Bought couple cheap bags of sand from LPS and mixed it in with my aragonite for a deeper bed in some areas and low and behold 4 months in and still water not clear. Tank is fully cycled. I’ve bought all new sand and LPS Advised to skip water changed and just remove sand and add new and then do a water change later due to the old sand will hold a lot of the beneficial bacteria. Just Looking for a second opinion before I dive in 😅
If you've 100% confirmed its the sand, just get it all out of there and save yourself more future headaches! Since tank is fully cycled dont worry about the bacteria loss from the substrate. Dose with Prime and Stability for the first few days after the switch to make sure the water stays safe while your bacteria reproduce and catch up. You'll be fine! Heres a more recent video of me changing the sand AGAIN...lol - ua-cam.com/video/TF82Hb-MBH0/v-deo.html
Thanks tons Kev! I swapped out the substrate over the weekend. It was a smooth transition. The second video was a huge help ! Thanks for your advance and looking forward to more content!!
Not cloudy water from the sand. But cloudy water from a bacterial bloom, yes, Indirectly it does. Because a bacterial bloom can also cause an ammonia spike which will burn their gills and effect breathing.
@@KaveManAquatics Thank you Kev! In you video, I you could barely see some of your fish...I didn't know if that is harmful to your fish. Thanks for clarifying for me. :)
@@KaveManAquatics Thanks, check out a ratcheting clamp, a little pricier but lets you control the pressure of the clamp. Great work keep the info coming!👍
Good morning Kev, I'm just about ready to start substrate process. Is this thi SPECIAL GRADE bags? Or the ones EXACTLY shown in this video? Please let me know when you can, don't want to change out if I use wrong kind. Thanks Chris Castellanos I the 209..Stockton Ca
Great vid!!! Thx kevin! Quick question, i need to just add more sand to my aftican cichlid tank. Just lost some of them thru water changes. Do i just dump the sand in?
Use a wide mouth bottle like a Snapple bottle to scoop the sand and then target drop it right on your existing substrate, this will reduce the cloud of sand everywhere. Also make sure you wash it well unless you’re using the arag-alive version.
I changed from rock Gravel to sand yesterday, I was really worried about the end result, this morning the water is crystal clear and the fish are looking good, all the food settles on top and doesn't sink into.the rock Gravel 😀
Exactly! Thats one of the major benefits...your fish waste will also set on the surface and wont sink under it. This helps in letting you know when its vacuuming time. Or even better, with a wave maker positioned correctly it can do the vacuuming job for you! Watch this - ua-cam.com/video/tTSGJm9wyco/v-deo.html
Would you have been able to add the proper substate on top of the improper substrate instead of changing it? Did the cloudy water aggravate the fish while you were changing it? It looks like floating sand.
I am going to have to do this same process with my cichlid tank and I just had a question is this actual sand or crushed coral? Also how were your fish after the whole process of switching out the substrate? Does it make a difference for the live bacteria since it’s from saltwater?
Its sand. The live bacteria helps to cycle your tank quickly. Doesnt matter that its reef sand, what it does to your tank (raises PH) is exactly what you want in an african cichlid tank 😁
Hey kev, So I just changed out my substrate to the caribsea pink Fiji one you have and I took my fish out and put them in my 20 gallon for this process and now I test the water and I have ammonia did this same thing happen to you? I know you changed your substrate with your fish in the tank. Also is it safe to put them back in the tank or should I just wait it out?
I saw a video where they put the washed substrate/sand in a big ziplock bag and slowly let it slide from the bag onto the bottom of the tank. I’ve used this method to change substrate without removing my fish and it’s super easy and doesn’t mess up the water. I also siphoned the old substrate out instead of using a cup.
You said you hope no one ever has to do it. But doesn't the buffering power in oragonite stop over time after a year or so? So do you replacw your substrate every year then so you have good PH buffering power again?
Well, this sand and crushed coral eventually deplete their buffering capabilities, if thats what you're using it for. It's probably not buffering your water anymore after years. With that being said, using this sand as a substrate will last longer than crushed coral in your filters. Here's a good video with a bit more detail on crushed coral - ua-cam.com/video/kJwohkjGFMg/v-deo.html
If you’re having trouble achieving crystal clear aquarium water, I can help!
Download my Free ebook with the best tips and advice - KaveManAquatics.com/Free-Ebook
Thank you so much you are a legend I respect it nothing but love brother keep on fishing 💯
Hey bro, I have brown rust like algae in my tropical tank I have tried everything from lighting to filters.. any advice ?
@@charlescandela2373 thanks bro, appreciate that!
@@musuddin1711 Do you have a pleco? If not get one! Then do a black out for a week, no light or food! But first do 50% water change and scrub as much off as you can, then lights out!
@@KaveManAquatics I got 2 plecos. ill give the black out a go thank you brother 👊🏼
From the UK. This is by far the best aquatic channel on the internet
Thank you bro, I appreciate that! 😁💪
@@simona4442 from UK too, it's definitely the most watchable channel and I like it as he also points out mistakes he made which is good to hear. Sometimes explaining what went wrong is loads more helpful than just telling everyone what to do.
Im watching this because im going to try a planted cichlid tank but used a soil underneath about 4cm of gravel, I didn't know they could dig all the way to the bottom of the tank, so now I need to swap out 30kg of substrate in my 240L//70+G tank...
Also, I wanted to offer a cool lil tip that I used when I transferred my sand substrate to a bigger tank. Instead of that plastic scooper. I used a plastic dust pan. Works awesome, fills up the dust pan with a lot of sand, but best part is, if you just tilt the dust pan back, all the water drains out the handle, leaving it full of just wet sand but no loose water. I never new that dust pans have a drain on the handle till recent!💪
awesome tip bro! But I hope I never have to use it LOL 🤣
I do the same.
That's a pro tip.... dust pan...niceeeee
@@KaveManAquatics haha Never say never, haha
Good tip 👌
Every time I move I use a clean dustpan for a broom to scoop up the substrate, works really well and you can scoop out a ton at once even into the corners
I dare say that when one does what one does well (your "UA-cam Series)and presents it for consumption in an easy to understand and in an informative/educational format that is presented with both a knowledgeable enthusiasm and with a most enjoyable demeanor; KUDOS to you from me and my four budding aquarist grand-children.
Thank you William! Always appreciate your feedback! 😊💪
I used the sand, wave maker setup, hob filter, and top fin rock display you recommend…thank you very much. All of this brought new life to this tank
Hey Kev. I wanna thank you for inspiring me to get back into the hobby. I was done when I kept losing fish. You brought the passion in fish keeping for me. I have a 55 gallon now. Looking to upgrade to a 90 gallon. Just stacking my supplies now. Thanks again. My All male peacock coming soon
Thats awesome, Glad I could inspire you! Welcome back to the hobby, we all missed you! 😊
Thanks for the tips. I made the mistake years ago and didn't put enough substrate in, now I'm adding little by little along with quick start so I don't get a bad bacteria bloom. It helps a bunch.
Glad I could help! 😁
Looks much better. I would have tossed some BB in there like Seachem Stability or Fritzyme 7, but it looks like all your fish did great. Thanks.
Thanks Ben! I had just added some stability into my filters a few weeks ago, that and the live bacteria in the sand made me feel confident in the BB 😊 Thanks for sharing that tip though! Love your channel Ben 👍
Using live bacteria sand that’s made for salt water doesn’t help. The bb for salt water doesn’t survive in fresh water and can cause an imbalance in your cycle from the bacteria die off.
I had to do the same thing for the same problem. To get the sand out I took a hose like you hook to your pump ran it outside into a bucket and started a siphon. Sucked all the sand out. Worked like a charm and didn't cloud up the water.
Small helpful tip I learned when taking out substrate was to use a pasta strainer or a dustpan. Have a great day everyone!!!
Pasta strainer wont work because the sand will sift right through, but a dust pan is a great idea.thanks
I just suck out the substrate out with the 25’ python cleaning tool. Works like a charm, now I only have a tiny bit left in the tank, of course this was each time I did a water change, so it took about 3-4 months
I changed my substrate out for aragonite back a while ago and saw a tip for using a juice or pop liter container to put the rinsed aragonite slurry in, then put it in the tank with water and it pours out without clouding up. It worked. Great videos Kev.
Tonight I switched my substrate from white gravel to the African Cichlid sand and Aragonite in my 125. Thanks for everything Kev I’m leaving a lot. Thinking about investing in your course to go to the next level.
It'll definitely make you feel confidant about keeping happy and healthy Africans! 💪
Hey Kevin. I'm glad you gave in and removed the substrate. A lot times people don't want to make changes because of the money involved. I was telling the Ha Y in fish keeper, I will always have back ups for everything that keeps my tank operating. I learned my lesson the hard way. I was brand new in the hobby. I lost (3) 10" Oscars and (2) 8" goldfish because my filter stopped working and I had no mean of getting another one. I did all I could to save them. AnyWHO, I learned too, my tank wasn't nearly big enough for such big fish. It was a 55 gallon. But the goldfish wasn't supposed to be in there. They were supposed to be food. ( I never saw them eat the goldfish) Thanks Kevin.
Sorry for your loss, unfortunately in this hobby sometimes we learn things the hard way, myself included. Thanks for sharing.
Bro feel your pain, had to do this about 6 months ago, a Royal Pain in The Butt. Takes an age to get your head around doing it and then an age doing it, but well worth it. Good Job!!!
We know the same pain!! lol Glad you enjoyed the vid 😊💪
I did this one time and luckily not on the big tanks but I used new and rinsed Dusk pan, and a Tip to those who wants to change their big tank's gravel to sand use new and rinsed Cat litter scoop.
I have the same problem with caribsea cichlid mix sand when I was watching your video, I realized that I was right with my suspicions! great channel
Thanks bro! Always sucks to find out the substrate is the problem, but at least now you know! 💪
Just to confirm, it is ok to add tap water directly into the tank given Prime is added to tank ahead of time?
Correct! 😊
Just did a 55 gallon tank and bought some white sand and slate stone super cheap from local quarry working great so far
I did this 2 days back in my 90G, switched from white to black substrate. After looking at the result, l just forgot the painful process. Some forums and UA-camrs insisted about cichlid showing vibrant colors in black substrate since they change their color pattern based on their surrounding. And it really worked.
Glad it worked out for you, But I think substrate color is just a personal preference. Fish will pop regardless 😊
@@KaveManAquatics yeah I was also thinking that way like how a substrate color decides the fishes color, but it's their natural instinct to survive it seems. For about 2 months I did a research kev, testing it in my 40G. Even I left the fishes without substrate since my tank bottom is itself black that also made a difference. So I gave it a shot in my 90G and yeah I'm glad that it worked becoz I can't do this process again to switching white😂
I’ve given up on sand substrates. Recently I replaced the white sand in my 40gal. tank with 30 lbs. of mixed river gravel. The water has never been clearer and the gravel is so much easier to keep clean. The only real change is having to treat water levels more often, but chemical bacteria really helps balance that out.
I wouldn’t use sand unless I cared for exotic fish professionally.
I wanted the African Cichlids but i had black gravel so i change it to white sand for them and I actually did not remove the fish while doing it only 2 died though.
Perfect timing! I will have to do this soon, and using that sand will keep me from disaster in my newly cycled tank. Thanks!
My pleasure 💪
Thats unfortunate brotha. Atleast you figured it out and acted fast. I've been through the same with black sand and my water still had a black tint after washing my sand for a few hours. Like you said wouldn't even wish this upon your own enemy. Always touching important parts of the fish hobby!! Lets goooo💪
Sucks you had to go through that too! Glad you enjoyed the vid though 😊💪
Wow a nightmare that I have been through. Thanks for sharing this Kev. Keep building your video library, very helpful and entertaining.
Yup I agree...Thank you, Will do! 😊
I love your info... and the way you put it out... but I won't EVER share your obsession with sparkling water. I want it clean and comfy for my critters... but you go to the MAX. A++ for the effort... and results. You are an aquarium ROCK STAR
LOL, thank you bro! Even though I know the water parameters are perfect for my boys, I do also enjoy looking at a crystal clear tank 😊
@@KaveManAquatics I think that's the thing people miss about the Aquarium hobby... every person gets to build a tank... or tanks... to fit their own tastes and purposes. It really allows for individuality to shine through. I see a million people searching for ONE answer... when they need to realize... there are a MILLION answers to one question... its all relative to your goals and situation.
Couldn’t have said it better myself. You are 100% correct! 💪💪
I changed my substrate to Fiji pink after watching this video! Awesome! Loving it!
Nice! Glad you like it, and Im glad I was able to help! 😊
Tank looks beautiful. That is a complete drag but I think you just keep in mind the end result and the look and happiness of our guys. So it was worth the work. Awesome tank! Now if only my little guys would grow up!
Thanks bro, definitely worth it! 💪
@@KaveManAquatics I marvel at your big fish and my guys are so little. Haha where can I send u visuals of my tank
@@briaspe9911 They grow fast bro, enjoy the ride. Try my IG @kavemanaquatics
Hi kav glad to see the video we are upgrading to a 90 gallons and I was going to use the same substrate in my old tank in my new tank well I guess I’m not now We will wait until after Christmas to place our order for a new substrate for the new tank thank you so much
Cool, Glad I could help! 😊
I'm upgrading my tank this week and I'm using new substrate. Having the same issues with my substrate blowing around being too light. I have enough beneficial bacteria in both my canisters, sponge filter and decor so I'll be ok once I put my Africans in the new tank the same day.
I think you will be ok too! 😊💪
Fish looked PISSED bro lol... Glad it worked out in the end and thanks for saving us the trouble.
My Pleasure 😊
One of your best vids brooo....great job!!
Thanks bro, Glad you liked it!! 😊💪
Hey Kev. I decided to swap my pool filter substrate out for river sand for my Mbuna tank. Thanks for the video. It was super helpful! However, maybe you can use this tip. I used a standard clear hose (no attachments, just hose) to create a syphon and vacuum out the old gravel. Man it worked like a charm!! There was almost no cloudy water during this process and the fish were super chilled. Maybe give that a go for your next change. Just make sure that the hose is wide enough to not get blockages.
For bigger tanks instead of taking water out then scooping the sand out use a big diameter tube and siphon the sand out. Stops it clouding up and less stress for the fish
That is a great tip! I actually did that the second time I removed and replaced the sand 😁
I’m thinking about changing my substrate 😩 I have a black background & black substrate. I’ve recently changed my fish to discus 🐠 3 of them have turned almost black with very little colour😢 I’m guessing it’s down to the background & substrate ???
It is. Discus can want to blend into their environment. I have a black background on my Discus tank but use white sand.
I'm in this exact position now! Thanks for the video. Just waiting for my new substrate to be delivered and then the fun can begin! Got my new tank set up and the sand particles have been ruining my enjoyment
Let the fun begin! lol
@@KaveManAquatics sand out.. coral sand in.. much improved
Awesome 😎 Once again I was looking for the best Substate for my Tank. I’m just getting all the needed Materials for my Tank, Not gonna get the fish 🐟 until next week Thank Bro, for the Great content , keep up the good Work
Glad I could help! 😊
Was thinking of getting sand from my local lake? Maybe I will test it in a jar first to see how cloudy it gets.
I really like the caribsea substrates. They are a must for African cichlids, thanks Kevin🙂
I agree! 😊
The end result is amazing! Crystal clear! 👏👏👏 🐟🐟🐟🐟
Thanks!! 😊😊
I did it too once...when I chosed white sand! A lot of work and also a patient test!
Yes Sir!
If you domt want cloudy sand floating . Take the scopper gently drag the bottom and come up the sides easy
Even though its a year later, thank you for this video. It's been years since I've kept fish. I put together a medium freshwater community a month ago. All my parameters are great but I couldn't figure out why my water wasn't clear until I saw this video. It looks like the same sand substrate I purchased. I'll be slowly taking it out and replacing it as I do my water changes.
My pleasure! Glad you're finding the channel helpful 😁
Where do you get such beautiful driftwood and how do you find driftwood that doesn't turn your water yellow ?
Looks great , for a 125 how much wattage for heat do you need??? Are 2. -200 watts good enough ?
Thanks
Nope, I would use 2 500W heaters
I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy, either! That is a huge job. Glad you got it sorted out. Your tank is beautiful! My husband wants to know how Flava Flav is doing! 😁
Thank you, Tell your husband Flave is doing great and growing!! Thanks for asking 😊😊
Sorry for your troubles.... loved just how well you took us through your process 👌👌👌 and that clear aquarium feel aaaahhh!
Thank you so much, glad you enjoyed it 😊
I’ve had to do this before. Once on my
32 and another time on the 75. Man it was a real pita getting it out. Like you I left the fish in, lol they were not happy. I do get what you’re saying with the substate. This is why now I only buy Caribsea and I make sure when washing it that the washing water is crystal clear before adding it to the tank. These mofos are always, and I mean always swimming around with a mouth full of sand looking for food, and I know the feeling of seeing particles floating around. You have a 407 on there right? I’d recommend Fluvals new UV that connects right to the filter. My boy got it, and lemme tell you his water now is crystal clear with zero particles at all floating around. I ordered one already 🤗 Happy Holidays My Bro🙏🏻
Thanks for that tip, didn’t know fluval made one like that...will def check it out! 💪
Do you change your aragonite substrate? How often? TIA.Lenny from Western Australia
The black diamond blasting sand is it bad for the fish. Alot of people say it hurts their gills
Hey Kev, thanks for all the videos here. Always helpful. A few months ago I settled up my 55gal with Jack Dempseys and black sand. I’m planning to change this black substrate for this one in your video because, for one reason, my Dempseys got a dark color so almost don’t see them. What’s your opinion? Would my tank have a better look? Thank you.
I appreciate this info so much. My kids and I are new to the hobby (started November 2022). We decided on a chunky rock bottom since we also have baby turtles, I soon found out that my constant bacterial blooms were from “stuff” hiding under the rocks. Last night, we switched to sand (no small task lol). The aquarium is super clear this morning (I also followed your awesome advice on filter media in my fx4). African cichlids and turtles seem super happy.
Thats awesome, glad to hear your tank is doing well now! 😁 Many beginners get frustrated early on because they dont have good info.
I highly suggest you check out my playlist for beginners. It'll be very helpful for you 😁 - ua-cam.com/play/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er.html
@@KaveManAquatics your videos have really helped me figure things out. I’ve watched many of your beginner videos, I really appreciate your channel. 😊
Would this sand be good for a Fahaka Pufferfish or would you recommend a different kind?
yooo Kev i JUST switched to pool filter sand and rushed it, switched from 70lbs of gravel to 70lbs of pool filter sand in about 2 hrs before I had to leave for work. Rinsed it thoroughly the best I could with what I have (large basin with powerful faucet, no garden hose plus it's winter here now) and after watching this video all I have to say is LOL wish me luck. Most of my fish are south american cichlids and not fully grown yet so....hopefully i don't end up with 1 month of cloudy water!
lol, You'll be alright. The pool sand will settle soon and you'll get your clear water back in a few days!
@@KaveManAquatics actually it was clear in 24 hrs! I got lucky ^.^
Hey kev! Your tanks are amazing! Hey I was wondering if you think I should switch my substrate years ago when I first set my tank up I had South American cichlids, but now I have all frontosa. Originally, when I set the tank up, I used play sand and as you know that does nothing when it comes to buffering the pH my tab order has a neutral pH at about 7.0- 7.2 I am considering switching out the play sand going with agronite I have a 200 gallon aquarium do you think it is worth the hassle because my fish are very healthy but like you said I don’t want them to survive I want them to thrive😀?
Glad I saw this video, I thought I did something wrong, my water was so cloudy. Thanks I just need to be patient and wait to see what will happen.
Yup patience is key at first. Glad I could help 😊
What substrate do you recommend for brackish tank setup for green spotted puffers?
Hi bro, I would like to add sand into my aquarium which don’t have any sand at the moment. Should I move the fish to other tank or can do it by letting them inside the tank? And I do have wavemaker so how to choose the right sand to avoid floating or flying?
I'm switching from gravel to sand but have to keep fish in tank .. mine is only 60 gallon so it will be easier ...and careful . Love your vids brother greetings from serbia and if you have a tip for me on this change.
do you have any videos covering the fluval stratum and it's "buffering" everyone talks about? It sounds like it's something that's just gonna make my tank parameters fluctuate a ton but everyone says they love it.. I'm so confused
Due to left over water from cleaning the sand. Should you add prime to sand after rinsing?
Add prime to the tank when adding the sand.
Kev, how much sand do you need for 75 gallon freshwater tank? I’m looking for a red sand. Do recommend one?
My App has a substrate calculator and tons of other features Im sure you'll enjoy😁 - aquabuildr.com
Hello did you remove the water from the bag or rinse the sand as this has salt water in it, I have just purchased the same sand for a cichlid tank and would like some advice. Many thanks
Bro..same issue size of the grain...started getting into my fx6..now im gonna black out the tank for my dovii..good video man..210 look like baby oil.. nooo particles at all
Thanks bro! Glad you enjoyed the video!
I am going to switch the gravel in my 75 gallon tank to CaribSea's Arag-Alive sand. Is this sand good for Angelfish? I have 4 Angelfish in my tank currently. Thanks!
How much would you suggest for a 40 gallon breeder ?
Hello Kev,
I really want to change my gravel to sand. I am stuck with not wanting to start a mini cycle in my 75 gallon tank if I change to sand. I have a HOB with two bio-wheels, 407 with two trays of bio media on side has matrix all other are the ceramic rings. I also have one sponge filter running as well. Will I be safe to change to sand. 🤞🏾
I changed from gravel to sand(on your recommendation) it was a huge pain in the ass on my 90 gallon, I would not want to do it on a 210 lol.
We know each other’s pain lol
Thanks for the videos, they helped me a lot. I’m 6 weeks into this new hobby.
Funny this substrate change reminds me of car mods I did previously without proper research. I ended up changing it all out again later again as it made the car handle worse than before lol
Glad it helped, and yea it would suck replacing things in a car too lol
Check out this playlist I made for beginners, it'll be very helpful for you - ua-cam.com/play/PLP5OXTIIDO8NYvhUHAmwAd54WFmS4d8er.html
I’m having the same issue!
One how did you do it without scratching the glass? And two how much do you think I would need for a 5ft 420 litre tank? I was going to try and syphon it out?
Scratching the glass was never an issue. Go to seachem.com and you'll find a substrate calculator there! 😁
Kev - i have multi-colored gravel in my 29 gallon tank. Its been established for 2 years now. I'm sort of bored with the multi-color gravel. I'm thinking of changing to a solid color, probably white. i want the plants and the fish to really stand out, and my thinking is that a solid color gravel will do that. What do you think ? If I add a thin layer on top of the existing gravel, will that work ? Is this a bad idea ? I don't want to kill the bacteria. Thanks, John
Did you find yourself having to add any kind of buffers such as malawi salt or malawi buffer when having caribsea Fiji pink sand?
Where did you get those wood decors?
What a pain! Glad you got it straightened out. I'm about ready to add substrate to my new 55 gallon tank and I'm not sure if it matters how much you add. But I've read 1/2 pound per gallon of water up to 2 pounds per gallon. What is correct in your opinion? Thanks!
Thanks Kev! Very knowledgeable Information Brother. I hope I will never have to do this process.. Question.. Can Arag-Alive sand be used in NON reef tanks?
Sure bro, This is a NON reef tank. These fish are freshwater fish but require hard water with a high PH. And the arag-alive is perfect for that. 😊
Hi sir, can i add a substrate to a newly cycled tank? What should i do?
Kave, I was seriously worried when the water went fully cloudy specially I was worried when you add the wood and sand coz couldn't see a thing but in the end it was outstanding job.... Its worth it.... 🥰😍👌👌 I also noticed a black shark in the tank nice..... (I got a Bala shark in my tank) anyway overall its job well done 👍👌👌
Yea me too bro, lol He's a red tail shark been in with the boys about 2 years now 😊
Hope that shark won't be a snack to others 😁...
Its always nice to see your videos kave (it's interesting and informative) keep up the good work 👋👋👋
Na, 2 years with the boys and nobody messes with him 😊
Glad you're enjoying the videos!
Hey Kev, Why not use a Wet n Dry Vac from the start? keep the cloudiness down also.
Didnt want to go to home depot to rent one, lol plus I was thinking that it would fill up mostly with water before getting all the sand and then I'd have to continue dumping and resetting it 🤷♂️
How did you get your tank's cloudy sand cleared up so quickly? I bought the premium sand of the same brand of your, i added the sand three days ago, and it's still cloudy. Should I use sponge filter, or HOB filer? Thank you!
That premium sand comes with a small packet to help clump up all the loose particles of sand. But its your mechanical media in tyhe filter that has to trap it and remove it. Make sure you have adequite filtration running 24/7
@KaveManAquatics do you recommend sponge filters or HOB filter? Thank you so much
Hey I would like to know what substrate did you use that made the water cloudy?? I think I already purchased it 😬😬😬 I love your Videos keep it up 🙂🙂
Question: Hey Kevin, what are your views on Anoxic Filtration Methods?
So if I currently have a 75 gallon tank with black gravel would this sand you recommend be a good swap? I’m not liking the gravel look as much… it’s fresh water with 2 blood parrots, 5 green tiger barbs, 2 Odessa’s (going to get 5) and 5 other barbs. The tank is a couple months old. I also wanna add plants to help hide the heater.
What grain size is the new sand?
Not sure, but its definitely bigger than the old sand
I got parrot fish and green terrors and a fire mouth and two silver spotted catfish in my 90g will that new substrate be good for them right now I have playsand from Home Depot ans it’s awful no matter how many times I caccum the waste out soon as I refill the water it looks like I didn’t clean it all
Why did you add tap water and not use back the same water that you removed earlier? I’m switching tank and is planning to do that.
old water just has nitrates in it. By using new water it's essentially a big water change 😊
@@KaveManAquatics seems like you did 60% to 70% water change as a result. Is this how much you do for your weekly water change as well?
Hey ! Thanks for the content man! I’ve learned a lot from your channel. I am dealing with this exact problem. Bought couple cheap bags of sand from LPS and mixed it in with my aragonite for a deeper bed in some areas and low and behold 4 months in and still water not clear. Tank is fully cycled. I’ve bought all new sand and LPS Advised to skip water changed and just remove sand and add new and then do a water change later due to the old sand will hold a lot of the beneficial bacteria. Just Looking for a second opinion before I dive in 😅
If you've 100% confirmed its the sand, just get it all out of there and save yourself more future headaches! Since tank is fully cycled dont worry about the bacteria loss from the substrate. Dose with Prime and Stability for the first few days after the switch to make sure the water stays safe while your bacteria reproduce and catch up. You'll be fine!
Heres a more recent video of me changing the sand AGAIN...lol - ua-cam.com/video/TF82Hb-MBH0/v-deo.html
Thanks tons Kev! I swapped out the substrate over the weekend. It was a smooth transition. The second video was a huge help ! Thanks for your advance and looking forward to more content!!
Does the cloudy water cause health issues for the fish? It looks like it would affect their "breathing". Thanks.
Not cloudy water from the sand. But cloudy water from a bacterial bloom, yes, Indirectly it does. Because a bacterial bloom can also cause an ammonia spike which will burn their gills and effect breathing.
@@KaveManAquatics Thank you Kev! In you video, I you could barely see some of your fish...I didn't know if that is harmful to your fish. Thanks for clarifying for me. :)
Not a comment I have a question about what size clamp were you using in your video to keep your siphon to in place during water changes
I think it was a 2" clamp. You can find it in my shop - koji.to/kaveman_aquatics
@@KaveManAquatics Thanks, check out a ratcheting clamp, a little pricier but lets you control the pressure of the clamp. Great work keep the info coming!👍
@@KaveManAquatics Checked out the shop website didn't see any Skully's
Good morning Kev, I'm just about ready to start substrate process. Is this thi SPECIAL GRADE bags? Or the ones EXACTLY shown in this video? Please let me know when you can, don't want to change out if I use wrong kind. Thanks Chris Castellanos I the 209..Stockton Ca
Great vid!!! Thx kevin! Quick question, i need to just add more sand to my aftican cichlid tank. Just lost some of them thru water changes. Do i just dump the sand in?
Use a wide mouth bottle like a Snapple bottle to scoop the sand and then target drop it right on your existing substrate, this will reduce the cloud of sand everywhere.
Also make sure you wash it well unless you’re using the arag-alive version.
I changed from rock Gravel to sand yesterday, I was really worried about the end result, this morning the water is crystal clear and the fish are looking good, all the food settles on top and doesn't sink into.the rock Gravel 😀
Exactly! Thats one of the major benefits...your fish waste will also set on the surface and wont sink under it. This helps in letting you know when its vacuuming time. Or even better, with a wave maker positioned correctly it can do the vacuuming job for you! Watch this - ua-cam.com/video/tTSGJm9wyco/v-deo.html
Love this video. Can't wait for next weeks video been waiting A long time for it !!!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Would you have been able to add the proper substate on top of the improper substrate instead of changing it? Did the cloudy water aggravate the fish while you were changing it? It looks like floating sand.
Possibly, but didn’t want to risk that and if it didn’t work then I’d have to remove even more sand lol And no fish were fine in the cloudy water.
hi ther I a quick question do it Makes a difference to have fish's on feeling schedule what day an time
Being in a schedule is helpful so you won’t forget but they also can expect when it’s feeding time too.
Love this video. I am replacing the sand in one of my tanks. Shouldn't be too much work though as it's only a 38 litre with a betta.
Glad it helped
@@KaveManAquatics It sure has :) Now I just have to find the motivation! Haha
I am going to have to do this same process with my cichlid tank and I just had a question is this actual sand or crushed coral? Also how were your fish after the whole process of switching out the substrate? Does it make a difference for the live bacteria since it’s from saltwater?
Its sand. The live bacteria helps to cycle your tank quickly. Doesnt matter that its reef sand, what it does to your tank (raises PH) is exactly what you want in an african cichlid tank 😁
Hey kev, So I just changed out my substrate to the caribsea pink Fiji one you have and I took my fish out and put them in my 20 gallon for this process and now I test the water and I have ammonia did this same thing happen to you? I know you changed your substrate with your fish in the tank. Also is it safe to put them back in the tank or should I just wait it out?
I saw a video where they put the washed substrate/sand in a big ziplock bag and slowly let it slide from the bag onto the bottom of the tank. I’ve used this method to change substrate without removing my fish and it’s super easy and doesn’t mess up the water. I also siphoned the old substrate out instead of using a cup.
Cool tip!
You said you hope no one ever has to do it. But doesn't the buffering power in oragonite stop over time after a year or so? So do you replacw your substrate every year then so you have good PH buffering power again?
Yes, that’s correct. Depending on the bio-load of your tank the buffering power will deplete in 1-2 years.
Did you let the sand settle before turning your filters back or is it safe to turn it back on right after putting water back in it?
You could give it some time, But its your filters that will help get your water clear again after replacing substrate.
Ok awesome! Thank you so much for all the advice, you're a life saver
Hello its me again😉😉. I've been having crushed coral for years in my 75 gallon . Is it better to have this sand you use or just keep my crushed coral?
Well, this sand and crushed coral eventually deplete their buffering capabilities, if thats what you're using it for. It's probably not buffering your water anymore after years. With that being said, using this sand as a substrate will last longer than crushed coral in your filters.
Here's a good video with a bit more detail on crushed coral - ua-cam.com/video/kJwohkjGFMg/v-deo.html
@@KaveManAquatics I had my crushed coral for 8 years ,I think its time to change out huh.. Thanks for caring- You're Amazing!