Sand or bare bottom?

[MitchM]

It's much easier to control the nutrients that feed nusiance algae in a bare bottom tank.
It's that simple, really.

[GQsmooth]

Sand always, bare bottom looks cheap and unnatural

[intarsiabox]

I have sand and no algae, I only clean the glass once a week as well on water change day. I tried a bare bottom tank for a year and didn't like the look of it and if you're unhappy with the way your tank looks why have it? In the end either way can work with the same results but you have to be happy with it. I personally like a sand bed for the eco system it provides, the animals I keep in it and the natural look.

[smokinreefer]

+1

It just depends on what you like!

I like a sand bed for the aesthetics, trying to mimic the ocean floor. Plus it creates an environment for a diverse amount of microfauna. As well as a home for wrasses & jawfish.

But my current tank is bare, and so will my next tank. Simply for maintenance.
I can see where detritus has accumulated and I can get it out.

I can always add sand easily if I get tired of the bare bottom.

[Dearth]

Both have their pluses and minuses

I live by this rule though "Its your tank it's your choice"

My two cents worth though like others have stated start with a BB and if it's not working for you add sand at a later date

[brittanyk]

thanks for the input everyone. Ive decided to go bare right now, to give it a try. Like everyone mentioned, I can add sand later if desired...