Reef Tank Aquascaping

I have just set up a 55 gallon Salt Water Aquarium. Is it okay to have a sand only substrate or bottom?

Currently I have 20 pounds of Caribsea Aragonite live sand. On Thursday I am buying 20 more pounds of the live sand. I also have about 40 pounds of base rock for my aquascaping and plan on buying 50 pound of live rock as well. Will the 40 lbs of live sand and 50 lbs of live rock be enough for my 55 gallon aquarium. I am working towards a soft and hard coral Reef Tank.

The less sand the better as it traps detritus and nitrates. 40# is too much unless you plan on doing a deep sand bed, but if thats the case you will need more to get to 4 inches deep. Personally I would run a bare bottom tank as it will be easier to clean especially if you want hard corals. If you really want sand I would only put a few handfuls in to lightly dust the front of the tank.

40g Reef Tank aquascaping

SALTWATER FISH AQUARIUM DVD! Set-up, Aquascape & Maintenance $12.49 Pet Video Library Books On Video Presents: HOW TO SET-UP, AQUASCAPE & MAINTAIN YOUR SALTWATER AQUARIUM This DVD covers: Supplies You Need Choosing an Aquarium Aquarium Component Assembly Water Conditioning Establishing A Biological Filter MATERIALS – Discover the necessary components for a successful saltwater aquarium including lighting, aquariums & stands, covers and more! – CHOOSING…