sump sand
 

hi......

Does a deep sand bed in the sump need to be lit for nitrate consumtion?

Thanks......... :biggrin:

Nope, light is not necessary for the anerobic nitrate-reducing benefits of a dsb. The only reason you would light your sump is if you were going to keep macro algae in there as well, which I do, which I think is a pretty good idea... if I do say so myself :razz:

- Chad

I agree with Chad.

Macro Algae in your sump works wonders on keeping the unwanted algae out of your display tank. :cool:

reply
 

I'd be careful with sand in the sump. I found that the waste gathers in it and actualy causes a nitrate problem, unless you do grow macro algae with it. You also run the risk of sucking sand into your pump if its not setup properly. IMO, they aren't worth the extra work.

I probably should have added that my sump is barebottom too - just live rock and macro algae sitting on a glass bottom. Water changes and cleanup is a cinch, just syphon the junk off the bottom and your done. Not really nitrate consumption - more like nitrate prevention.

- Chad