Saxobone

Hi all...I've always wanted sand substrate, and I am getting a new 10 gal tank tomorrow. When I asked the fish store guy about it months ago I was a little hazy and he gave me some complicated answer that it was only for cichlids or something I dont remember.
So whats the deal?

Oh ya, and the fish I intend on keeping are Gold Barbs (gonna transfer them from the 55 gal once its cycled) and Clown Loaches and maybe some red eyed tetras.

MaddieLynn

Clown loaches get HUGE. They're 12" or more each and need to be in groups of 3 minimum, so they need at least a 150 gallon tank.

Sand substrate is NOT just for cichlids. I have sand in my puffer tank and my community tank. The only problems you might run into are that gas pockets can for if the sand is deep and undisturbed for long enough and that there have been reports of bettas dying from eating sand. But I don't think you were planning on keeping a betta in there.

tototime

In a 10 gallon tank Clown Loaches won't last long. Sand is a fine substrate for just about any tank setup. There is a slightly different procedure for cleaning it, but other than that my fish love it. I recommend pool filter sand. It is the purest and easiest to clean. Just remember to rinse plenty before adding.

AquaSplash6201

Like the others said, Clown Loaches are misunderstood fish. They get pretty big.