Crushed coral substrate for cichlids. I think I would like to get the crushed.

Crushed coral substrate for cichlids. I had some limestone bases I busted up into fairly small pieces and use that. Max Size ~6+" While most cichlids will grow fairly large to around 6" in length, some are capable of growing to 12"+ in the right conditions. I know this make my ph level high. I prefer to use coral sand as substrate for African Cichlids, especially Lake Tang Sp. Crushed coral is a substrate that is made up of small pieces of coral skeleton. Each type has specific advantages to consider when setting up a healthy, balanced environment for your cichlids. So - darker substrate = darker tank. It is durable and helps keep water stable but can be sharp, so it may injure delicate fish. Does anyone have suggestions for types of grasses, etc, and easiest method for cleaning/vacuuming the substrate? Jul 31, 2025 · Adding crushed coral to the substrate creates a textured, rough surface similar to lake beds and rocky shores where cichlids live. This process releases carbonate ions, which “buffer” the water. So you’ve chosen African cichlids as your preferred tank species. Jul 28, 2010 · Get all new substrate, add more crushed coral, or do a combination of crushed coral and the Kent line of products. Eight environmentally accurate ecoscapes, developed through CaribSea’s cooperation with public aquariums and zoological parks where authenticity is a must, Arag-Alive!™ makes any aquarium uniquely Jun 6, 2023 · Is it more beneficial to add crushed coral to my substrate or caribsea Fiji aragonite sand? I want to use a more natural way of getting the ph perfect rather than using ph buffer. Aug 30, 2012 · Be careful combining aggressive fish in small buckets. I had 29 gallon Malawi tank and 33 gallon tropical. So to give you a quick answer to the question of whether crushed coral be used in an aquarium – yes, you can use crushed coral as a substrate in your aquarium. This can be especially beneficial for African cichlids that thrive in alkaline environments. Some marine fish like to dig also. This substrate is ideal for maintaining high pH levels and water hardness, which are crucial for the health and coloration of these fish. I want to put a coral substrate in my new 55 for my african cichlids. I would certainly have gone that route had I known about the problems with alkaline substrate when I started. Will eliminate chronic pH problems and provide maximum surface area for water purifying bacteria. 45 gallon Bowfront tank. CaribSea Eco-Complete African Cichlid Substrate in the review section here. They loved it. Great with cichlids from the Rift Lakes. For cichlids, a sand substrate is considered the best. In most tanks I have a mesh bag with crushed coral because I don’t want to mix it with my black substrate. The coral leeches minerals that raise the pH and buffer it so it maintains a stable/high pH level. A local reef guy has 5 gallon buckets of used (clean and dry) crushed coral for sale for pretty cheap. If you use a dark substrate, use light colored rocks or if light colored substrate, then dark rocks for a nice contrast. 2-6. Do you want to change them? Substrates usually cannot dissolve fast enough to make much difference. It keeps the PH buffered high which the fish love and has tons of surface area for the beneficial nitrifying bacteria to grow on. Mbuna will be fine. So I would like to get some suggestions on a substrate that has good buffer capabilities, makes the colors of the fish pop, and goes well with a black background. Jul 14, 2010 · I'm using Crushed Coral to maintain and keep my pH higher. Feb 24, 2015 · I'm looking for some advice on a better way to get the PH up to something suitable for African cichlids. Dec 14, 2015 · The use of crushed coral is going to vary depending on what kind of pH the cichlids prefer. This encourages natural behaviors such as digging and territory marking, making the fish feel more comfortable. Any ideas on good tank mates for kenyi?? Any advice will be greatly appreciated Adding crushed coral to your tank is one of the best ways to raise your PH for your brackish water fish, like African Cichlids. Pool filter sand (100% silica) in the 20 grain size is ideal. Mar 7, 2024 · Aquarium substrates are materials that cover the bottom of your tank, providing a stable base for your aquatic setup. Aragonite: Aragonite is a type of calcium carbonate that can be used to raise the hardness of the water. cichlid. May 25, 2022 · Crushed coral in filters but put in a filter bad x crushed coral can get stuck in fishes mouths if used as substrate as they like to move it around a lot…Coral sand is better for substrate x 3 yrs Skie Garside Filter bag not bad 3 yrs 1 Omar Vang Substrate in all my tanks. Oct 19, 2024 · Crushed Coral: This substrate is effective in stabilizing pH levels, making it an excellent choice for African cichlids that prefer alkaline environments. Aug 31, 2024 · If you want to add some visual interest, consider mixing sand with crushed coral or aragonite sand. Thanks in advance! Feb 22, 2010 · Hi im planing for my 55 G 4' Feet to put a 50 Lbs of pool sand and i was wondering what would happen if i put a 10 or 15 Lbs of crushed coral substrate. And there's a few ways you ca Didnt know cc or dolomite were still in circulation as substrate for Af cichlids although I have used both in the past. Yeah I’d agree, the way cichlids sift deeply through the sand its just gonna end up underneath the coral. Crushed coral in the sump will work just as well as putting it in the Crushed Coral will give your substrate an edgy look and also help to raise and maintain a high PH for your African Cichlids*All Affiliate products are purchased on Amazon Apr 21, 2023 · A larger tank helps in maintaining stable water conditions and allows for more fish and decorative options. Learn about its aesthetic appeal, compatibility considerations, and alternative substrates to Jul 31, 2025 · The best substrates for cichlid tanks vary depending on species and tank setup. Is there any type of black crushed coral or will a dark Cichlid type substrate work. This is achieved through the use of white limestone rocks or crushed coral substrate. In conclusion, choosing the best substrate for African cichlids is an important aspect of cichlid keeping. This is a natural option, and also helps to maintain the high pH these fish are used to. I will be keeping Lake Malawi africans. Because it’s bioavailable and high in calcium and other trace minerals, it’s become a popular choice for reef and marine tanks—and now, increasingly, for freshwater aquariums housing cichlids. Live bearers will also do well. What will work with the crushed coral?? Jul 31, 2025 · Crushed Coral Crushed coral is a popular choice for cichlids that prefer a harder substrate. This can be particularly beneficial for cichlids that prefer alkaline water conditions. Adding these to the mix can help maintain your tank’s pH levels, which is crucial for African cichlids. Substrate Standard aquarium sand or gravel can be used, but crushed coral, coral sand or crushed oyster shell will help maintain the proper pH and alkalinity to support good health and color in your African cichlids. The gravel I use is standard aquarium gravel, about 1/4". Jun 24, 2009 · I think having like 50/50 (sand / crushed coral) substrate will be enough, then the sea shells and coral stones will be more of an aesthetic issue. Jan 24, 2014 · Is a crushed coral substrate okay to use in a Mbuna setup? I have it in there and the more I read on Mbuna's the more I am finding out they like sand. Sep 14, 2022 · 5 Best Substrate for African Cichlids VIVO Pets » Fish » African Cichlids » 5 Best Substrate for African Cichlids One of the most important things, when you’re setting up your tank, is the substrate you decide to put into your brand new tank. The crushed coral is a sandy color. Always research your aquatic species’ preferences and test water parameters regularly after adding substrate. Here is a shot of my DIY sump. Aug 3, 2025 · A buffering substrate actively counteracts this. In order for your fish to thrive in the long term, cichlids from lakes Malawi, Tanganyika and Victoria require a special kind of substrate to help maintain their ideal water parameters. Nov 1, 2021 · Crushed coral can be used as a benefit for African Cichlids that prefer high PH, hard water in the aquarium. So the gravel sized rock that is used in road construction would be a better choice for substrate. Aug 3, 2025 · Another eco-friendly african cichlid substrate gravel tip is to buy used. with the lucipinnis being bottom feeders there could be a chance of them getting hurt, would the coral affect the labs and Socolofi? What is the sand like? Does it lift alot when doing water changes or anything like that? Oct 29, 2012 · I have white crushed coral substrate with a black background and lace rock in a 60 gallon tank, I heard that the white substrate makes the colors of the cichlids look washed out. Not keeping cichlids, but in a reef tank it's more for keeping pH stable, even in not optimal Dec 21, 2007 · If you're not using a buffered substrate then I would suggest adding crushed coral to your filter to provide the buffering capacity you'll need. Dirty, but possible. I will have holey rock stacked up as well. So my dream came true, and I recently purchased a 75 gallon tank with the OAK stand, and a canopy with the light fixture. Oct 26, 2012 · Both aragonite and crushed coral are good substrates. This is aquarium water that will reflect the natural chemistry values of the African rift lake (s) the Cichlids were originally sourced from. Price and other details may vary based on product size and color. Can live sand be used ? My well water comes out at ph of 8. Jun 16, 2021 · Products with calcium carbonate include; crushed coral, limestone, aragonite sand, oolite, and African cichlid sand mix. There's some African cichlid substrate mixtures sold at like PetSmart but kinda pricey imo. These substrates support natural behaviors like digging, breeding, and maintaining water quality. Enough for a 125g. Also, how long does both crushed coral or aragonite sand last before it loses it buffering power? Feb 5, 2009 · I use white play sand from the hardware store mixed with some crushed coral. Relative water hardness should be 10-15dH. i just got a new account for a 150 gallon african cichlid tank that has about 3 to 4 inches of what looks to be crushed coral but. Vacuum, vacuum, deep vacuum the crushed coral several times in advance. Jan 8, 2025 · Discover the advantages of using crushed coral in your freshwater aquarium! This article explores how it stabilizes pH levels, supplies essential minerals, and supports beneficial bacteria growth. Dec 16, 2016 · The pH in my relatively new african cichlid tank currently sits at about 7. Just as it was stated before crushed coral has some sharp edges, has less surface are, can bond to chelated copper medications easily and doesn't allow denitrifying bacteria to populate the lower part of the substrate. I've used crushed coral with African cichlids and never noticed any damaged mouths. Substrate Crushed coral or aragonite: These are the two most popular substrate choices when it comes to African Cichlids. We use to breed many many kinds. Substrate options include aragonite, black sand, gravel, coral sand, and alternatives like crushed glass or seashells. I have a lot of guppies and pl ARAG-ALIVE!™ ARAGONITE CORALINE™ OCEAN DIRECT™ AQUACULTURE GRAVEL ARAG-ALIVE!™You can now bring the world’s most exotic reefs into your home with CaribSea’s Arag-Alive!™ substrates. Jan 18, 2022 · Gravel is inert & fine for all fish. Aragonite is a much better choice, especially for cichlids. I got this tank for over a year and never use coral is it wise to use it now. So - the height of your tank and the wattage of your fixture would also be something to consider when choosing substrate. However they do lie the red/white fine african cichlid eco complete substrate on the other half (digging, fanning, generally making a mess of the tank floor). The new tank will run an eheim pro 3 2075 with the eheim xl media set. CichlidForum. Jan 26, 2017 · Totally new to plants in an aquarium. Selecting an appropriate substrate is essential for their health and stress reduction. Ideal for species like African cichlids, crushed coral helps maintain a thriving aquatic environment. 8 and baking soda can bump up to 8. Do I have to put it as my substrate in the tank? or can I take one of the baskets that belong to my canister filter and fill it up with coral and let it run through the filter? Will it still works? Feb 19, 2022 · I would like to buffer my water with something else besides crushed coral. sand or crushed coral. Never heard of an arowana with africans either but i am pretty sure the arowana will not like a 8. 4 Anyone have experience with the amount of time it takes for substrate to influence water conditions? Does crushed coral lose some of its ability to buffer the older it gets? Are there different types of crushed coral that have different buffering Dec 13, 2010 · Hey should i use Carib Sea Aragonite substrate for my flowerhorn? Ive been having Ph problem 6. not so great for cichlids from the Amazon. if used in filters, crush coral can cause damage 3 yrs 1 Michael Jun 29, 2023 · Crushed coral is a commonly used substrate in fish tanks, particularly in aquariums that house cichlids or marine fish. I currently have pool filter sand in the tank now. I have seen here advice on using crushed coral for this. We recommend using crushed coral if you prefer light-colored substrate or Seachem Gray Coast if you like dark-colored substrate. What all do you all suggest i do Jan 24, 2012 · So I was at a local pet store today and saw a sign for crushed coral saying it was a good substrate for African cichlids now are they just trying to pull me in or is this actually true? It was a good price so I was thinking of picking some up for my 55 gallon build it was a decent substrate for Dec 6, 2023 · Another great option for cichlid sand is crushed coral. Allows an increase in bioload by up to 50% and it will never need to be replaced. com : Carib Sea ACS00150 Crushed Coral for Aquarium, 40-Pound : Aquarium Decor Coral : Pet SuppliesDry Aragonite Substrates - CaribSea’s dry marine substrates are recognized worldwide for their purity and precision. If you have softer, more acidic water or water with little buffering capacity, then you may want to try crushed coral or some of the buffered substrates designed for African Cichlids. I'm trying to decide whether to go with an argonite or crushed coral substrate, or a PFS substrate combined with argonite or coral as a Jun 18, 2022 · Not sure about aragonite in your media bag, but I see crushed coral used this way. Feb 9, 2015 · I have been maintaining African Cichlid tanks on the side (12 tanks) for 28 years. Dec 30, 2011 · I'd like to get black sand as my substrate, but wanted to add Crushed coral to help with pH. Commonly recommended choices include sand, crushed coral, and specialized gravel. 8. The Mbuna's are still on the small side 1 1/2 May 26, 2013 · •30lbs finely (1. Hi Travis, Thank you for all the great info!! ‌Final Thoughts‌ The ideal substrate balances functionality and beauty. Keep in mind when the product descriptions states "increases pH" it is a misnomer unless it literally contains OH- (hydroxide), these products only act to buffer the pH which has the potential to raise pH. Dec 20, 2007 · Cichlids LOVE Crushed Coral! The only substrate they like better than Crushed Coral is sand. We use a layer of. Always had fish only saltwater tanks, and cichlids for the last year. Whether you opt for crushed coral, aragonite sand, or a specialized cichlid substrate, it’s essential to consider the unique needs of African cichlids when selecting a substrate for their aquarium. A look at aragonites, seachem onyx, caribsea crushed coral and other cichlid substrates and gravel. Feb 11, 2011 · Your choice in substrate is depends on your preferences with color and texture,and also if you have any issues with pH shift. After all, high pH is far easier and much less complicated than low pH. 8 and GH=7 and KH Apr 25, 2018 · Free used crushed coral substrate. Promotes Healthy Water Chemistry: Helps maintain stable pH levels, promoting a healthy aquatic environment for fish, corals, and invertebrates. Mar 24, 2010 · I don't recommend crushed coral on any tank, fresh or salt. When you need to use crushed coral in your aquarium, would you have sand substrate? What do you do because I’m homing African cichlids and I have two canister filters, but I was thinking about switching to sand. Jan 30, 2025 · Crushed coral is a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts. Unlike smooth gravel or sand, the irregular edges of I use crushd corals w/ my CA cichlids. I use sand as a substrait which covers most of the coral. They don't do well with gravel from my experience. Never used driftwood for african cichlids because it lowers the ph. Crushed coral comes in various forms and Jan 10, 2012 · The PH of my tap water is 7. Im just starting a new tank with crushed coral substrate. These substrates provide proper pH balance, support biological filtration, and help maintain stable water conditions necessary for their well-being. It is made up of calcium carbonate, which can provide important minerals for cichlids. crushed coral can dissolve and help to raise or buffer ph. Penn Plex cascade 1000 canister filter with filter floss in top compartment and the rest of the trays loaded with fluval bio ring media. com is a great resource for general information regarding the cichlid hobby! Aug 29, 2023 · 22 Likes, TikTok video from Nash (@parrotnash): “Malawi Cichlids. Any advice Aug 1, 2004 · Amazon. Why KH is zero, is it for tank or tap water? Usually only tanks with KH removing buffering substrate have this problem, to keep pH low. 7. We use to have 50 african cichlid tanks. Nov 8, 2009 · If you really want to raise your pH crushed coral substrate may not get it where you want it. 15g tank. It helps maintain stable pH levels by slowly releasing calcium carbonate into the water. Can be used with calcium, but also carbonate buffer and essential trace Jun 30, 2024 · Discover the top 5 best substrate options for peacock cichlid tanks. Does anyone else have them mixed together? Was just wondering if it takes away from the black sand. 6-7. Don't use gravel. 4. If you are keeping hard water fish it doesnt mean you HAVE to use a substrate with buffering capacity. Crushed coral is a popular choice for African cichlid tanks as it can help maintain a high pH level and provide essential minerals for these fish. Some cichlid experts recommend using coral sand with aragonite. It is rich in calcium, just like aragonite sand, and helps to raise and buffer the pH level of the water. Just didn't have enough space for too many tanks in my apartment, as I wanted to get a bigger tank. This will replicate hard limestone conditions similar to Malawi Lake in Africa. What Is Crushed Coral? Jul 1, 2025 · Unlike crushed coral or limestone, oolitic aragonite consists of small, round, sand-like grains formed over time through natural precipitation events. The texture is rougher than sand or smooth gravel but still manageable for digging behavior. Thanks! Sep 11, 2025 · When it comes to picking the substrate for your aquarium, many substrates are available for use, from sand to gravel to coral sand and crushed corals. If you have cloudy water, it is more likely to be because of dirt already trapped in the crushed coral that gets released when you disturb it to remove than any sediment in the new substrate providing it is properly washed. I used crushed coral as the only gravel in my fish tanks for years, never had any problems. There is no reason to not use aragonite in your media except for how much it will raise Aug 3, 2025 · A proper cichlid substrate, usually containing materials like aragonite or crushed coral, constantly and slowly dissolves into the water column. 6 - 6. It is known for its ability to raise the pH level and water hardness. If you have an African cichlid tank, you might have heard of using crushed coral as a substrate. Will they be able to breed still? I have seen them pick up the pieces and move them a bit. True buffering is necessary due to fluctuating KH or pH whatever the cause may be. The coral will slowly dissolve over time, releasing minerals into the water and raising the pH level. A local reef guy has 5. He was wondering if he could use crushed oyster shells instead of crushed coral because its alot cheaper. The substrate is aquarium gravel (I know, not a great choice I know now). :)”. Great for African & Central American Cichlids. I plan on getting some Kenyi for the tank. I told him i didn't see any reason why not as it should buffer about the same as Dec 5, 2023 · Crushed Coral/Substrate: Adding crushed coral or a similar type of substrate to the aquarium can help to increase the hardness of the water. Anything you add will be removed by substrate, until it exhausts its buffering capacity and becomes inert. So now I am wondering whether to go with Aragonite to buff my pH or just use regular PFS and then use the Cichlid Lake Salts and Malawai buffers. Apr 18, 2009 · I recently bought this substrate for my 125gal. Sand is 100% their natural environment & I’m definitely a fan of making a tank as homely as possible. They slowly dissolve into the water column, releasing minerals (carbonates and bicarbonates) that raise the water’s hardness (kH and gH) and stabilize the pH at that high, alkaline level your cichlids crave. Other materials like crushed shell (like Oyster shell) can also be used. Your substrate may not impact pH, KH or GH at all. Dec 17, 2024 · Crushed coral is a popular choice for aquariums housing hard-water fish like African cichlids. 5 and i need that to fix will this fix it and will i Jan 9, 2016 · I find crushed coral to be difficult to clean and the grains are sharp. I have the same pH out of tap as you and in my experience crushed coral only raises to 7. If you have a high pH naturally then you can use some kind of sand. Never had a problem with cut mouths or injured fish in any way. I have my rock pile already mapped out and all the fish lined up to go and get but I discovered that I didn't have enough crushed coral, which I thought I was going to use for substrate Sep 19, 2010 · If you want a ph buffering substrate (for African cichlids for example) then crushed coral is a common and good choice. Apr 24, 2011 · Hi All, I have a 55 gal demasoni/yellow lab tank that is thriving- lots of babies, healthy fish etc the only problem is that my sand substrate has destroyed my HOB filters. These materials support water chemistry and mimic natural habitats, promoting fish health and natural behaviors. Aug 25, 2007 · Am new to the hobby and considering switching to coral/sand mixture for my cichlid tank. Many thanks to Max from Montreal who I am setting up a 55g Lake Malawai cichlid tank and I was going to use crushed coral as a substrate but after reading up on it, it seems crushed coral is more of a nitrate factory than anything. 2 & lock it there. Aragonite or crushed coral only aid to stabilize the KH (they are poor buffers, especially crushed coral) and cannot replace a true KH buffer. My wife and I decided we would like some tall green plants growing. Mar 4, 2009 · Aragonite or crushed coral are great for them as substrate and both are very good pH buffers for a cichlid tank. Jan 23, 2012 · A friend of mine recently moved to the other side of town and said his tap water ph is around 6. 5 mm) crushed coral (coral sand?) got it free, has small shells in it, a few pink specks •40lbs Carib Sea cichlid substrates sahara sand (probably overpaid for but can return it) I was thinking of mixing two if not all three of them but after that happens of course there is no turning back! I came across a cichlid tank with crush coral substrate and few dead coral as deco. The use of root tabs and fertilizers can help fix the issue of the lack of nutrients from these inert substrates. Jul 31, 2025 · Crushed coral raises the pH and hardness of the water, which suits many African cichlids from alkaline lakes. I think I would like to get the crushed The most common material to use is crushed coral sand/gravel that is either placed in the substrate or in a stocking/container to be placed in the filter (s). Jun 19, 2020 · The Best Cichlid Substrates - Aquarium Info The best cichlid substrates and gravel for the aquarium. I've taken all the necessary precautions- covering the intake Get ready to add new fish or plants to your aquarium with CaribSea Geo-Marine Florida Aquarium Crushed Coral. Jan 7, 2012 · Thats an incomplete story. Caribbean Crushed Coral is full of millions of bacteria that are beneficial to any marine aquarium, engineered for aggressive waste reduction. Dec 28, 2017 · Hi! I'm setting up my first African cichlid tank. Under The Sea (Little Mermaid) - Knightsbridge. Plus, crushed coral — with its bright white color — can add a nice contrast to your tank’s overall look. The natural buffering properties of these substrates help maintain the higher pH levels needed by these fish. We used crushed coral for substrate in every tank. Enhances Water Clarity: Aids in improving water clarity, reducing waste buildup, and maintaining Product Description Florida Crushed Coral is the perfect substrate for all marine, reef, and African Cichlids. The tanks has been set up for 6 weeks now Oct 19, 2021 · For African cichlids both sand and gravel are a good choice. The coral’s light color also brightens the tank, enhancing the vivid colors of the cichlids. 0 ph and the crushed coral raises the ph tp 7. Crushed coral will raise both ph and hardness. Jul 31, 2025 · African cichlids prefer substrates that mimic their natural habitats, including sand, crushed coral, fine gravel, and rock-based materials. Amazon. Sand vs Gravel (crushed coral)I sold my both tanks. With Jul 16, 2011 · #1 Crushed Coral vs Fine Sand for Malawi Substrate Jump to Latest 9K views 21 replies 7 participants last post by Agridion Jul 18, 2011 Agridion Discussion starter African cichlids require harder water and high pH than your typical freshwater fish, so if you have soft, acidic water, choose a substrate that will help buffer the water. I've read that the carbon can just absorb everything you're trying to add to the water. Substrates like aragonite or crushed coral are made of calcium carbonate. Mar 4, 2024 · It is important to remember that you do not need to use just one type of substrate. If you have soft acidic water, you can add some crushed coral or oyster shells into the substrate to increase hardness and pH levels. com: crushed coralCheck each product page for other buying options. Water 50 litre changes are done every week to a 300 litre tank. I washed it as it instructed to, and this morning the water is still cloudy. Jun 22, 2023 · A lot of the substrates currently available for cichlids combine both these features and are made up mostly of crushed coral or aragonite. If a local hobbyist is breaking down a cichlid tank, you can often get their substrate for cheap or free! Crushed coral: Crushed coral is a substrate that can help to raise the pH of the water, which can be beneficial for some species of cichlids. Oct 13, 2021 · Curious on what's a better option - pool filter sand -aquarium sand - crushed coral sand also how many pounds would I need for a 125 gallon Cichlid tank? thanks Nov 30, 2023 · Cichlid Tank Setup Ideas African Cichlid Tank South American Cichlid Tank The Best Substrate for Cichlid Fish Sand Gravel Crushed Coral Bare Bottom How to Set Up Cichlid Tanks Choose the Correct Tank Size Construct a dependable filtration system Keep the Correct Water Parameters Dress up the tank Gradually introduce your Cichlids Feed a Varied Mar 2, 2023 · To learn more about GH KH and pH, check out this article. Use crushed coral as your aquarium gravel or filter media to safely raise the fish tank water's pH and KH (which buffers the water against pH swings). May 29, 2016 · Forget using it as substrate aloneit dissolved into muddy brown water. I mixed in last night with substrate (other african cichlid mix, I think it was eco-complete crushed coral/shells) from the tank I was switching over. Also your filtration is more than good. Crushed coral for substrate can be great for African cichlids that come from the rift lakes which have high ph and hard water. Crushed coral can also provide a natural substrate for plants and beneficial bacteria in the aquarium. May 23, 2013 · I am thinking of putting a bag of crushed coral in my sump, would this work as well as putting it in the substrate. I use crushed up limestone in my filter media bags. My cichlids would breed like crazy and the Firemouths were absolutely beautiful. The CaribSea special grade reef sand contains aragonite, which is great for coral reefs, Cichlids and other creatures that like to burrow. Jul 6, 2017 · So I think I'm going to move from the crushed coral I've used in the past to sand and from the reviews I've read here and elsewhere the Caribsea Eco-complete for African Cichlids is really good stuff. This substrate not only adds visual interest to the tank but also helps maintain the pH levels in the aquarium. The only crushed coral with aragonite, which provides up to 25 times the buffering power of other crushed corals, dolomite, or oyster shell. Give your fish a place to burrow and dig Both plants and aquatic creatures alike can benefit from the proper substrate. Just staty clear of the osmosis stuff and as Shawine says, don't worry too much. I have had aragonite substrate for 10 years and my tap and tanks are exactly the same at pH=7. Learn about sand, gravel, and crushed coral for healthier, happier cichlids. I would use fine white or black sand personally. Specialty Eco Substrates: Engineered to enhance beneficial bacteria, these substrates assist in maintaining a healthy biological filter and add texture to your aquarium. Would also like to populate with live plants (although many posts I've read indicate cichlids tend to tear up most plants). Rinse lightly in clean fresh water then place into the aquarium, add water, then start filters. If you need to use crushed coral for your tank but your cichlid much prefers sand, either invest in some coral sand – if you can find it- or mix crushed coral with sand for maximum benefit. would the crushed coral be a good substrate either alone or mixed with the pool sand that I have Does the buffering capability of crushed coral "wear out" ever? I dont know how Aquarium substrates, such as crushed coral, are thus used to give a natural look and serve as colonizing and breeding grounds for bacteria that benefit your fish. (*lol, it says on Dec 4, 2023 · Crushed Coral: Crushed coral is a substrate that is commonly used in cichlid tanks, particularly for those with hard water requirements. But the crushed coral would be much easier. 8-7. For example, a planted tank thrives with nutrient-rich soil, while a cichlid tank demands crushed coral for pH stability. What’s the consensus on substrate for African cichlids? I’ve been using crushed coral for years to good effect, but I’m about to move and so set up a fresh tank for them, but it has me wondering I should look for alternatives? Especially considering how they like to dig. A 1" to 2" bed is best, as many species love to dig! Décor Jul 31, 2025 · Cichlids prefer substrates that mimic their natural habitats, including sand, fine gravel, and crushed coral. This substrate works to reduce your tank’s current bioload so you can add more finned friends or luscious plant life to your aquarium. I have read that maybe crushed coral substrate may be the answer. This natural substrate not only helps regulate pH levels but also supplies vital minerals such as calcium and magnesium. Most hatchery fish can also adjust to the elevated PH. I use Florida Crushed Coral in all my aquariums with African Cichlids. You would get better results putting crushed coral in your filters or dissolving baking soda. I find it really does help w/ raising ph. Aragonite and crushed coral is another way to go about this from what I've heard. Mar 11, 2011 · I've been noticing my cichlids do not like the crushed coral substrate which covers half the tank. Jan 16, 2008 · I want to use crushed coral for my substrate in my soon to be African cichlid tank. Aug 15, 2012 · Hello everyone, I'm going to be starting a chiclid 55 gallon tank (Mbuna ) and wondering what everyone prefers for substrate. It helps maintain stable pH levels and provides essential minerals. Crushed coral substrate, and holey rock. I've largely settled on an Electric Blue Acara tank, and was after advice on suitable decor for a 215L tank. Pick up in Bowie or Upper Marlboro. But dosing an aquarium with the form pictured in the first post seems possible. I've replaced motors and impellers countless times. for cichlids, the best substrate is sand or crushed coral, as it maintains proper ph and alkalinity, promoting good health and :screwy:I am setting up a new 55 gallon tank for malawi cichlids and I have a 20 lb bag of white cichlid sand in it right now and I"m debating whether I should get another bag of the white sand or if I can/should use crushed coral mixed with the sand. Our substrates are purposely engineered and free of impurities such as ash, metals, pesticides, and silica; which allows you to create a safe and beautiful environment for Aug 11, 2009 · Hi everyone. One thing to consider is that dark substrate will absorb light, and light colored substrate will reflect it. Seinse they dont need the same way of cleaning will this be a problem ? The main reason for the crused coral is that my g/f likes the looks Crushed coral was a popular substrate choice for many aquarists but newer sand-based products help reduce trapped detritus, balance Ph better, and a wide selection of grain sizes to suit every aquarium have made sand become the preferred choice for saltwater aquariums. What do you guys do to get the best water chemistry possible? a mixture of sand and crushed coral is best imo unless you have super soft water then got for all crushed coral. Crushed coral / calcium carbonate substrate will likely up the PH to as much as 8. However, whichever you choose, it’s a good idea to mix in some coral sand, crushed coral or crushed oyster shells, as these materials help to establish and maintain the right pH of the water, as well as the bright color and good health of the cichlids. my water typically is 6. Apr 25, 2019 · What is the BEST substrate choice for cichlids? Sand, gravel, which brand? Your tank’s substrate can be critical in providing a healthy and natural environment for your cichlid, you must Mar 24, 2010 · So the crushed coral is slighty bigger pieces. Jan 2, 2005 · Natural Marine Substrate: CaribSea Crushed Coral is a natural substrate that supports pH balance, creating a stable environment for marine and reef tanks. Helpful? Additionally, substrates composed of natural materials like aragonite or crushed coral can help maintain stable pH and hardness levels, which are essential for these fish. Substrate for cichlid tank. Should i have Pet Fish Does anyone use crushed coral for ph in one of the fx6 trays? If so, how much do you put in a bag? Going to be used on a 75g peacock tank. 55gal tank. The coarse coral offers plenty of surface area for beneficial bacteria to grow. CaribSea also has an array of reef-ready substrates. By providing a surface for beneficial bacteria to grow on, crushed coral can help to establish and maintain a healthy biological filter in the aquarium. African Cichlid aquariums are one of the most fun tanks to build (With a name like “Quebec Cichlids”, I might be biased in this opinion). Aquarium hobbyists often use crushed coral to create a balanced and healthy environment for their fish. Oct 1, 2012 · What kind of cichlids? African rift lakes or South American? I use aragonite sand for my Tropheus and other Tanganyikan cichlids - it will raise the pH and will buffer the water a little bit, but I use a couple of Seachem products to raise KH and GH to higher levels than what aragonite sand or crushed coral can achieve. I've done pretty much every other type of freshwater fish. When setting up a tank for Malawi cichlids, you may want to consider using crushed coral sand or gravel as your substrate. Substrates can also be a part of the stimulating nature of your fish tank. Yes, the silicone job sucks but I will trim it up a bit. But, it may not always be a good idea to use it (as covered later in Feb 14, 2011 · I have never used crushed coral in my tank but it was suggested that its good for cichlids. I was looking on big al's for coral and came across this: CaribSea Inc. Anyone else notice particular likes. 2 and after a week and a half the PH of the aquarium water is 7. 2. Just wondering, is it ok for cichlid especially smaller species like lemon in those setting? Using Crushed Coral In Cichlid Tank. Sep 18, 2024 · I'm looking to set up my first cichlid tank (i've had marine tanks for ~15 years) and am a little overwhelmed with the different options for cichlids/decor/substrate etc. They were my passion for years. Aragonite: Aragonite is a substrate that can also help to raise the pH of the water. 2 ph. Will this be ok and if so how many of you use this as your substrate? Thanks I'm setting up a 75 gallon Tanganyika tank and have a couple questions about using crushed coral as my substrate. I just got a new account for a 150 gallon African Cichlid tank that has about 3 to 4 inches of what looks to be crushed coral but I see little pieces of shell mixed in. I have been told to use crushed coral but now i am reading about this stuff. bntvcgkk rppkexg rrezc poz izadt iuvzcoh wfpyrt hgl sdw aur