[randymon]

I have some sugar sized for my new 125 and was wondering how deep I should make the sandbed. I do not want a dsb so 1/2" , 1" or 2" ?

[almostdiva]

Randy,

I'm curious why you don't want to do a DSB? You should either go 3 or more inches or under 1/2 inch. Anything between 1/2 and under 3 inches isn't deep enough to help you with denitryfication. And because it isn't deep enough, it will like you cause nitrate problems and higher levels than you probably want.

Might I suggest Bob Fenner and Anthony Calfo's latest book, "Reef Invertibrates"? It has an EXCELLENT section on DSBs that thoroughly outlines their pros and cons.

My DSB is 4 to 5 inches (depending where you are in the tank). It's been up and running for 3+ years and has continued to function well through 3 aquarium moves. It's just my 2 cents, but I think they are great.

Rebecca

[tray262]

I agree, 1/2" or less, Some people say, no sub at all, But to me that just looks plain stupid, I doubt with 1/2" or less you'll be able to have sand stars, or sand sifting goby's and such which I think are a nice addition. I personally love the ben or the DSB, I'm 5"-6" throughout.

[Ninong]

Originally Posted by randymon

I have some sugar sized for my new 125 and was wondering how deep I should make the sandbed. I do not want a dsb so 1/2" , 1" or 2" ?

If those are the only choices, I would go with 2".

[tray262]

Originally Posted by Ninong

If those are the only choices, I would go with 2".

I'm just curious Why ?

[Ninong]

Originally Posted by tray262

I'm just curious Why ?

A 2" sand bed will provide some denitrification benefits. A 3"-4" sand bed would provide even more but that's not one of the options. So that's why I would choose 2" over 1" or 1/2".