Argonite vs Live Sand

Is live sand worth the cost?

 

usually no but for a 15g sure. imo

 

Even with a 15g the bagged LS is a waste of $$.

Just buy a bag of aragonite sand, and get a cup of sand from an established reef tank and you will be set, and actually have beneficial critters in the sand. The bagged LS only has some bacteria, and even then, what is living in there is not worth the money.

 

Waste of $$$$.. My favorite is the fine white oolite.

 

Where would I get a cup of LS I dont already have an established reef tank. Do you think a LFS would part with a cup?

 

Most will. Or you can check with local clubs or other reefers in your area.

 

You don't really have to do that.
As your tank cycles it will become live. Adding live sand and/or rocks is one method of kicking off a cycle. Where are you in the process?

 

so what is a good cheap argonite sand??? and where can you get it and how much is it?

 

This is what im told about argonite sand:

Sugar fine grain size is ideal for DSB and SSB.
Supports huge bacteria population.
In DSB, supports Anaerobic bacteria in deep layers for Nitrate reduction.
Helps maintain Calcium and Alkalinity balance.
Helps maintain stable Ph.
Oval grain texture is ideal for sand burrowing worms and sand sifting fish.

You can get it at most LFS for not very much