[VIC]

I need some help.
I have a 155 gal tank with about 2 inches of sand. I want to increase it ti at least 4 inches. Can anyone give me some help?

I also have a 100 gal. sump that is loaded with rock and macro algae.
The problem is that it causes algae blooms in the summer as the temp rises. I want to get rid of the algae in the sump. Should I keep the rock and the lights on or convert it to a dsb?

Any opinions will help
Vic

[Mr Neutron]

What kind of sand do you have now? When you add sand it needs to be added slowly - 1/4" to 1/2" once a week so you let detrivores migrate to the new bed. The macro in the sump - do you harvest it regularly? If you leave it in there you won't be removing any excess nutrients and it won't help reduce microalgae.

[VIC]

How often would you suggest harvesting it? How much do you trim on each occasion?
Thanks for the help
Vic

[Bughead]

When I had my 100 gal, I increased the sand from 2" to 4-6", slowly, as suggested by Mr Neutron. I used a piece of 3" pvc pipe, about 3' long. I held it to guide it do the bottom of the tank where I wanted sand and my hubby dished up the sand from the bucket and shot it down the pipe. I always did it in the evening when only the actinics were on because it still clouds the tank. I find it disconcerting to look at a tank that looks like it's filled with skim milk. But by morning the water will be completely cleared up. I turned the pump off while I was placing the sand, then turned it back on shortly after I finished. The whole process of increasing the sand bed took a couple of months.

Personally, I'd keep your macro algae going in the sump. Harvest enough that it isn't overgrown and if you don't have tangs or fish that eat it, take the extra to your lfs for trade. Just keep it cleaned up enough that hair algae doesn't take over and choke out the macro.