[crimsoncoral]

I have found at my local HD "playsand" that isn't made by southdown but is made by "T-C Landscape Supply, Chicago IL" Has anyone ever used such sand?

I guess I can answer my own question. The southdown sand is specifically from the Caribbean, not Chicago.

[FishKid]

you can use it! but many a-hobbyist would avoid it like the plague! That sand is infact silica quartz which is dangerous if inhaled! There is a heated debate whether or not you can use that kind of sand in a fish tank, many have used it with no problems at all, while others have found catastrophic consequences from using it! If you can not afford the "brand name" sand, or south down is not available to you (check out reefland.com's shopping section, there is a link at the top of the pages, scott carries south down sand) then you may have to stoop to using "play sand" but if i were you i would count my pennys and look elsewhere!

mark

p.s. - Ninong eat your heart out!