Ocean Sand.

I have a two inch sand bed, my live rock is atop that. I want more sand and my dad is going to the Keys tomorrow, I asked for him to bring back some sand and anything cool from when he goes diving. Any thoughts about this? Do I overnight the sand or whatevr else he picks up? Is it legal to take sand and random things from a reef bed? I read that live ocean sand is great for a tank.

 

Personally, I wouldn't use sand form an ocean unless I dried it out and rinsed it after that. I don't have a scientific reason or anything, I just don't think I'd do it. Dried and rinsed? Why not, go for it.

As for collecting, I've never been collecting, but from what I understand (and don't quote me on this - anyone feel free to jump in if you know for sure), I believe if you have a fishing permit, it also includes collecting livestock, not corals, just livestock. Again, this is only what I've heard from folks who have been there.

 

Well if that's the case my dad does have the licens. I'm more concerned that it's a protected area or not?

 

I look at it this way, is buying some new sand worth the value of money I have in my tank? Yep.

On top of that restrictions on collection are usually more severe than people think.

 

Well his captain will know if it's legal or not. But, would it be any good for my tank, I don't have much in my tank just live rock, 2 clowns, a starfish and hermits.

 

I wouldn't use anything from the ocean. Made that mistake once, and won't make it again.

 

Other than the legality of it, you need to think about the biological & chemical value. One thing about the ocean there is alot of stuff if it (both good and bad). In the uncontrolled enviroment you cant know what type of contaminates (natural and man made) that are in the sand. A few ppm of a contaminate might not mean much in the ocean but now introduce that few ppm of whatever into the small confines of your tank can very easily wipe it out and comtaminate your rocks, sand, everything until a total tank purge & rebuild is needed. Moral of the story: I wouldnt recommend it.

 

no recomend for all creaturs, the sand of the beach is more dirty.

 

I wouldn't take a chance with the sand. It is unknown and far from sterile. The value of your tank and its inhabitants are surely worthy more than that.

Another thought is all the oil that is in the gulf from the spills.

Why take a chance.

Rick