Deep sand bed, is it necessary?

[gramma royale]

Hey all,

I was reading up on Dr. Shimek's research and support on DSB's and it seems like they're really necessary for a successful refugium. Is this really true? I was hoping my bristleworms and other critters would be happy in my 2-3" sand bed, but now I'm not too sure. Any thoughts on this one?

[Ironreef]

IME your critters will still be happy in 2-3". The dsb would be better for denitrofication. I usually find most of my critters in the upper half of my refugium. I have a 6" bed. There's a few that make it deep but for the most part they are usually up top. Maybe to get to the food faster or they are just small? Dunno but I wouldn't really worry. JMO

[organicreefer]

gramma,
i wouldnt call them neccassary,and i have had good results with denitrification in as little as 2 inches of sand,not to mention lots of awesome tanks with bare bottoms,but im addng some sand to the new 120(along with all the sand from the 93)to make sure i have four inches. the below tank refugium(30 tall) will have six inches.ime ,with and without,dsb's rule(i have gone two months without a water change and i couldnt measure nitrates could probly go forever but i like to change every month).

[gramma royale]

heh, ok, sounds good. I'll try to add more sand to my refugium to get at least 4", just for kicks