Black Diamond Blasting Sand

Ok I just bought two bags of it and was wondering if I could dump it into my empty tank and use my python to fill with some water to wash it and then use the python to suck the water up.
What do you all think? It seems it would be easier to wash it that way.
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You'd be better off doing 5 gallon buckets with a hose nozzle. I think it will take forever doing it with python
 

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Ok I just bought two bags of it and was wondering if I could dump it into my empty tank and use my python to fill with some water to wash it and then use the python to suck the water up.
What do you all think? It seems it would be easier to wash it that way.
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I would wash it in a bucket. Five pounds or so at a time until you see how dirty it is or isn't.
 

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Ok , I just poured some in a bucket and have been washing it . Now I'm letting it soak. I noticed it has somewhat of a smell to it. Is that normal?
This is going to be a job to wash all this lol
 
That smell is normal, nothing to worry about.
Yea..it's a pain to clean...but it is soooooo worth it.
 
I agree with what everyone here has said. Post a picture once you get your tank filled
 

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A pressure nozzle on a hose will mix up the sand a lot more. When you think the water is running clear rinse it a couple of times more.
 
I noticed on top of the water there is what seems to be a little bit of oil substance..
is that normal as well?
 
That's normal as well. That's another reason to rinse the sand well. Once it's in the tank, the filter should take care of the rest.
I've heard of people using Dawn (blue) to help, but I don't suggest it because I'm afraid that I wouldn't rinse all the soap residue out.
 
That's normal as well. That's another reason to rinse the sand well. Once it's in the tank, the filter should take care of the rest.
I've heard of people using Dawn (blue) to help, but I don't suggest it because I'm afraid that I wouldn't rinse all the soap residue out.
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Ok thank you! I got 50lbs cleaned and put into my 55 gallon. I'm going to do another 25lbs and that should do it.
 

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I have seen a lot of people talking about using black diamond blasting media as a substrate. I have read mixed reviews about it on mostly and equal level. I have decided to give it a try in my new tank. I have also read it must be washed extremely well so I was looking for some helpful tips from someone who has used this before. All advice welcome!
 
Pour 10-15 pounds into a tub or five gallon bucket. Rinse it in water. Warmer water is better. Rinse each batch 10-15 times. That's how I did mine. Used about 35 pounds for a 20 gallon long. You may notice some oily residue in the first 2-3 rinses. It will get black powder all over your hands, forearms, and nails. It should mostly wash off easily. Put washed BDBS into the tank. Don't worry about shaping it yet. Fill tank with water. Gently stir sand to release all air pockets. You don't want a gas buildup under the surface. They can wipe out a whole tank community. Let the sand settle some before you turn on your filter. You don't want sand sucked inside it. The heater can be turned on once the water is in. Let it be warming the water. You can also put a dose of Water Clarifier, but would give it a chance to settle first. Once you turn your filter on you get to start the cycling process. If you don't know what this is, read about the nitrogen cycle. There's several different ways to achieve a cycle, but that's a completely different topic best left to another thread. Picture below is what my BDBS looks like. Within two days of changing to it I believe. Although it was pretty much the same the night I changed it. You have the advantage of using it as a first substrate though.
 

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I appreciate it. This is tank number 3 so I know about the nitrogen cycle. I am taking biowheel off a 75 gallon marineland filter on an already cycled tank to help speed it up a bit. I washed and washed. People weren't joking when they said it was a pain to clean. I put it in the tank a bit ago and the water looks like I didn't even touch the stuff. Luckily no oil on top of water. But this will be a listless cycle so it will give me time to sift the sand around and hopefully get all the dust I thought I already got out.on a side note it looks like you are using a marineland led lighting system and have live plants. This is going to be my first tank with live plants and was wondering how the marineland leds were with them
 
Also any tips on vaccuuming when cleaning? I have only used gravel in the past so this is extremely new to me
 
I broke off the clip part of a ball point pen and taped it with electrical tape to my aqueon gravel vac (saw this on youtube). With sand, any fish poop / uneaten food just lays on top (as opposed to gravel, where it ends up getting in between cracks / pieces of gravel and ending up "in" the gravel). During a water change, I use the pen clip to agitate the sand, which causes anything needing to be removed to float up a little above the sand where it can be easily sucked up. Of course, I do end up dumping a little sand each time, but it's a very small amount. I think I found the youtube video:
 
Most with sand and plants do not vaccum. With live plants you don't want to disturb the plants and usually can't get the vacuum between the plants. I use cory's and snails (pond, ramshorn and mystery) to keep food cleaned off substrate. My Malaysian trumpet snails keep the sand stirred so that fish waste gets mixed in and used by plants. Filter heavily, plant heavily and stock lightly.
 
Most with sand and plants do not vaccum. With live plants you don't want to disturb the plants and usually can't get the vacuum between the plants. I use cory's and snails (pond, ramshorn and mystery) to keep food cleaned off substrate. My Malaysian trumpet snails keep the sand stirred so that fish waste gets mixed in and used by plants. Filter heavily, plant heavily and stock lightly.
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Oops - I missed the part about the live plants
 
Darn JeffK I was hoping that trick would work when I do want to suck up gunk. Have also used a turkey baster, but mainly rely on flow from filter and snails to keep bottom clean.
 
Darn JeffK I was hoping that trick would work when I do want to suck up gunk. Have also used a turkey baster, but mainly rely on flow from filter and snails to keep bottom clean.
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I guess if you're real heavily planted it could do more harm than good...
 

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I appreciate it. This is tank number 3 so I know about the nitrogen cycle. I am taking biowheel off a 75 gallon marineland filter on an already cycled tank to help speed it up a bit. I washed and washed. People weren't joking when they said it was a pain to clean. I put it in the tank a bit ago and the water looks like I didn't even touch the stuff. Luckily no oil on top of water. But this will be a listless cycle so it will give me time to sift the sand around and hopefully get all the dust I thought I already got out.on a side note it looks like you are using a marineland led lighting system and have live plants. This is going to be my first tank with live plants and was wondering how the marineland leds were with them
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Also any tips on vaccuuming when cleaning? I have only used gravel in the past so this is extremely new to me
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Yeah I guess I should have looked at your profile before bringing up the nitrogen cycle. Sorry! Yes though, sand is a pain to wash. Before the BDBS I had white National Geographic sand which took 4 hours to wash. Did the BDBS in 3 hours. These are the only sands I've dealt with so I'm still learning too.

On the lighting and plants,
No, my lighting is a Beamswork EA 80. The only real plant in there is a moss ball from early 1.5 gallon days. The rest are artificial hair type made out of some kind of thread or fabric. They look more real in pictures because of the diatoms clearing out finally. I do want to finally get some real plants though. Considering java ferns, but don't know if I have anything or be able to find anything they could be tied to. Also considering amazon swords and water wisteria. Don't know how I would use ferts with carbon in the filter though.

Unfortunately, any advancement has to wait until I get done treating my current columnaris problem. It's killed three corys (half of them) as well as my betta (my avatar).
 
Not to hijack the thread, but my concern is MTS can be a reproductive pest. I for one can't keep assassins to control them because I have other snails. Also have read that rabbit snails help agitate sand, but they are costly, get quite big, and like to eat plants (especially java fern). So what do you do in this case?
 
I use high desert sand now. Its white, not too bad to clean,but there is a lot of pebbles to pull out. I kind of regret it now there's lots of calcium in it , I think, because it brought my PH up about 0.4 points. It also grows quite a bit of algae. Because its white, it shows quite a bit of unsightly fish poop too.
 
Black Diamond Sand Blasting Sand for Aquariums?

Has anyone used it and what do you recommend for a 50-gallon tank? I think I have found two types on Amazon with different grit sizes shown in photos below. Do I have the correct sand and which one would you recommend for purchase? Or a comination for a mixture? Is either preferred? Will one be easier or more difficult to clean? Suggestions?

I am hoping to start a betta sorority with some tank mates (chorydoras and peaceful schooling fish with snails and shrimps) for a community tank along with live medium light plants. Would the blasting sand be suitable for this environment?

Many thanks!
 
If you are willing to pay a bit of money (actually, I think they're about the same price, might be a bit more as they come in 20lb bags) ; Tahitian moon sand (it comes in black) is very soft and silky (although some recommend sifting a bit to get an accidental larger pieces out); and corys will be very appreciative of it. The BBS (I didn't know you wanted corys!) can have mixed reviews where people say it is too rough (they can have sharp bits because they are used for construction/structure) while others say its just fine; you can use it if you like, but if you want to play it safe, I'd go with tahitian moon sand.
 
Maybe somebody has had experience with this, but I'd hate to add an industrial product to an aquarium because you never know what has been added to it to make it function for its intended use, but might be harmful to aquatic life. I know pay more for aquarium specific, and are probably getting the same stuff, but how often do you by sand?
 
Maybe somebody has had experience with this, but I'd hate to add an industrial product to an aquarium because you never know what has been added to it to make it function for its intended use, but might be harmful to aquatic life. I know pay more for aquarium specific, and are probably getting the same stuff, but how often do you by sand?
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I have black blasting sand in my new tank capping some topsoil; but I don't have any bottom dwellers, and so far, I haven't had any issues

But I would wait and see if someone has used it with corycats (that's the biggest thing here)
 
I have black blasting sand in my new tank capping some topsoil; but I don't have any bottom dwellers, and so far, I haven't had any issues

But I would wait and see if someone has used it with corycats (that's the biggest thing here)
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Somehow I found a link to more info on this topic which I was unable to locate previously: Cory Cats with Black Diamond Blasting Sand? got those interested. It seems the chorycats are not huge fans, and I'd like to get a cute ugly "scum-sucking bottom dweller" to help keep the tank clean. I'm already looking for the perfect guy -- his name will be "Scaramucci! "

Maybe somebody has had experience with this, but I'd hate to add an industrial product to an aquarium because you never know what has been added to it to make it function for its intended use, but might be harmful to aquatic life. I know pay more for aquarium specific, and are probably getting the same stuff, but how often do you by sand?
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I agree with you. KinsKick and others have recommended the Tahitian moon sand and I'm leaning towards that product.
 

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I have BDBS in my tanks with cories and have had no issues. Many others on here have the same sand.

The one you listed above is a different brand of blasting sand though. If you're looking for The Black Diamond brand, you can find it at a Tractor Supply for $8 for a 50lb bag. Much cheaper than what's listed above.

I want to mention that cories should not be relied on to clean up your tank. They're mostly carnivorous and need their own special diet. They're also a shoaling species that do best in a group of 6+ of their own species.
 

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If you are willing to pay a bit of money (actually, I think they're about the same price, might be a bit more as they come in 20lb bags) ; Tahitian moon sand (it comes in black) is very soft and silky (although some recommend sifting a bit to get an accidental larger pieces out); and corys will be very appreciative of it. The BBS (I didn't know you wanted corys!) can have mixed reviews where people say it is too rough (they can have sharp bits because they are used for construction/structure) while others say its just fine; you can use it if you like, but if you want to play it safe, I'd go with tahitian moon sand.
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Thank you. This is why I'm asking questions. I was told by Petco I should probably have a chorycat and some snails since I was asking about tankmates, and I do want a community tank along with the betta girls. I'll probably get the Tahitian moon sand, seems to suit my purpose.

I have BDBS in my tanks with cories and have had no issues. Many others on here have the same sand.

The one you listed above is a different brand of blasting sand though. If you're looking for The Black Diamond brand, you can find it at a Tractor Supply for $8 for a 50lb bag. Much cheaper than what's listed above.

I want to mention that cories should not be relied on to clean up your tank. They're mostly carnivorous and need their own special diet. They're also a shoaling species that do best in a group of 6+ of their own species.
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Yikes, 6+ Scaramuccies, I don't know about that.... maybe the Fluval 306 will have to do and I clean the gravel.
 
You have plenty of room for at least 10 corydoras. You'd want a warmer water species though like sterbaI or aeneus (bronze/albino) that would be temp compatible with bettas.
 
Thank you. This is why I'm asking questions. I was told by Petco I should probably have a chorycat and some snails since I was asking about tankmates, and I do want a community tank along with the betta girls. I'll probably get the Tahitian moon sand, seems to suit my purpose.
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Just a heads up with sosorities though; they are great; but there is an art to it lol; densely planted is your best bet as well as introductions. My girls get along fine, but the key is having those hiding spots/cover.
 
Yes, yes. I plan to give betta girls plenty of hiding places. I want harmony in this tank, and do not intend to overstock. I'll be taking my time to do things right as best I can for the long term, which is why I ask a lot of questions and appreciate everyone's input.

You have plenty of room for at least 10 corydoras. You'd want a warmer water species though like sterbaI or aeneus (bronze/albino) that would be temp compatible with bettas.
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Good to know. I'm making a note of this. Thanks!
 
I have BDBS in my tanks with cories and have had no issues. Many others on here have the same sand.

The one you listed above is a different brand of blasting sand though. If you're looking for The Black Diamond brand, you can find it at a Tractor Supply for $8 for a 50lb bag. Much cheaper than what's listed above.

I want to mention that cories should not be relied on to clean up your tank. They're mostly carnivorous and need their own special diet. They're also a shoaling species that do best in a group of 6+ of their own species.
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I have not used it for aquarium use because they didn't happen to have the correct grit size in stock when I tried. But I bet I have used at least twenty times as much as anybody else here because I use it for it's intended purpose. I am all for saving money as many aquarium products are a scam. Just have the good sense to realize your are using an industrial product so wash it first. They are likely using the same end loader bucket they used on the front end of the process when it was just coal tailings. Once in a while BDBS is oily, but most of the time it seems perfectly clean. It's pretty much glass after processing. Run some hot water over it and you'll know quick if it is mostly clean.
 
That's good to know. I'm all for saving money too as I'm always on a budget looking for a deal, however also willing to spend money for the right product. You get what you pay for, but you don't need to pay for a bunch of packaging, fancy marketing, etc. Be wise, do your homework.
 
I use it in my tanks without issues, it works and looks great. I'd recommend going to Tractor Supply to buy it rather than overpaying online.
 
That's good to know. I'm all for saving money too as I'm always on a budget looking for a deal, however also willing to spend money for the right product. You get what you pay for, but you don't need to pay for a bunch of packaging, fancy marketing, etc. Be wise, do your homework.
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I have eleven tanks and my wallet is a little thin for that. I'll continue to try value methods but there will be a price sometimes. I set up my first tank with play sand a few weeks ago on a new tank. I have to most epic outbreak of silicates on my glass than I have ever seen in my life. But nothing a razorblade and 30 minutes won't fix.
 
I have black diamond blasting sand 20/40 grit in my tank. It is $8 for a 50lb at Tractor Supply Company. For 2-3 inches in a 50 gallon tank you will probably need 2-50lb bags.
 
I've got cories and they seem to do just fine as I use medium grit Black Diamond sand in most of my tanks. I could not get my hands on the Tahitian Moon sand without paying through the nose for shipping. I've used it to cap several types of dirt and I love it.
My advice if I were you would be to be sure to get the medium grit as if you get the fine grit you'll vacuum it out when you vacuum your substrate for mulm!
 

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I have eleven tanks and my wallet is a little thin for that. I'll continue to try value methods but there will be a price sometimes. I set up my first tank with play sand a few weeks ago on a new tank. I have to most epic outbreak of silicates on my glass than I have ever seen in my life. But nothing a razorblade and 30 minutes won't fix.
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Wow, eleven tanks, that's amazing. I'm guessing when one gets one tank, it starts to grow from there. What does an outbreak of silicates look like?

I've got cories and they seem to do just fine as I use medium grit Black Diamond sand in most of my tanks. I could not get my hands on the Tahitian Moon sand without paying through the nose for shipping. I've used it to cap several types of dirt and I love it.
My advice if I were you would be to be sure to get the medium grit as if you get the fine grit you'll vacuum it out when you vacuum your substrate for mulm!
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Drummindot,
That was my suspicion on the finer substrate. I'm thinking of ordering this Tahitian moon gravel from Petco. Am I on the right track? I'll order 3 bags, 20# each for the 50-gallon tank . It's currently on sale with free shipping.

W
I have black diamond blasting sand 20/40 grit in my tank. It is $8 for a 50lb at Tractor Supply Company. For 2-3 inches in a 50 gallon tank you will probably need 2-50lb bags.
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Hello AllieSten,
Thank you for the info. I think I'll be going with the Tahitian moon gravel, 60# for the 50-gallon tank as pictured below. Do you think this is suitable quanity or might I need more?
 

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I have eleven tanks and my wallet is a little thin for that. I'll continue to try value methods but there will be a price sometimes. I set up my first tank with play sand a few weeks ago on a new tank. I have to most epic outbreak of silicates on my glass than I have ever seen in my life. But nothing a razorblade and 30 minutes won't fix.
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You must have some system set up for changing water, I can't imagine running so many buckets! Care to share?
 
You must have some system set up for changing water, I can't imagine running so many buckets! Care to share?
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Nothing particularly efficient yet but that will have to change. Can't use a python because all my indoor faucets run through a water softener. When the weather is nice I run a garden hose through the front door for the tanks on the ground floor.

Wow, eleven tanks, that's amazing. I'm guessing when one gets one tank, it starts to grow from there. What does an outbreak of silicates look like?
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Do you know what decorative frosted glass looks like? That is pretty much it. I thought it was just my water but some of my new tanks don't have the problem to any great degree. The play sand tank took it to another level. I can barely see into the tank. If try to clean it I have to do it repeatedly for awhile. If I just deal with it about a month then a single cleaning with a razor blade and it is gone forever. It appears in no way harmful to the fish. It leaches out of some substrates and then once it's gone it's gone.
 
Do you know what decorative frosted glass looks like? That is pretty much it. I thought it was just my water but some of my new tanks don't have the problem to any great degree. The play sand tank took it to another level. I can barely see into the tank. If try to clean it I have to do it repeatedly for awhile. If I just deal with it about a month then a single cleaning with a razor blade and it is gone forever. It appears in no way harmful to the fish. It leaches out of some substrates and then once it's gone it's gone.
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What if you boil the sand? I just got blasting sand and am going to boil it before putting in my tank.
 
Don't boil the sand. Bad idea, imo.

I didn't boil mine and I have had it for about 2 years in my 55g, no issues.
 
What if you boil the sand? I just got blasting sand and am going to boil it before putting in my tank.
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I doubt it would hurt anything but that shouldn't be necessary. Just put some warm/hot water on it and it will be apparent if it is clean. I don't think BDBS will have any silicate issues. You are just looking for the small chance it has oily residue.
 
Wood isn't the same as rocks/sand..... I have heard of rocks exploding when boiled before, and sand is tiny rocks, so....
 
Wood isn't the same as rocks/sand..... I have heard of rocks exploding when boiled before, and sand is tiny rocks, so....
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Well, sand proper is used as flame retardant, was used in a lot of lab equipment a decade ago or so (my own experience), so it can actually withstand much higher temperatures than boiling. However the discussed blasting sand is actually coal, so it would not be flame resistant, but as low temperature as boiling would be fine, I think
 

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