Fishkeeping - coral sand vs silver sand for Malawis

"SkyCatcher" wrote in message
...
Hi,

I read many conflicting website advice on substrate to use for mbuna. I
have
always used silver sand with good results but I like the look of ciral
sand
(plus its easier to wash & has the advantage of the buffering effect.
Anyone
care to comment or share experience?

Thanks,

Sky

Most Mbuna are rock dwellers although there are a few exceptions. They don't
rely on the substrate for a food source or for breeding. For this reason,
many Mbuna keepers go without a substrate. Although many like the bare
bottom tanks, and cleaning becomes much easier, I'd recommend against it.
Cichlids show their best colors when they feel secure. Light reflecting off
the sides of the tank can be stressful enough to your fish without adding
light reflecting from the bottom of the tank. That being said, pretty much
any substrate that's not going to drastically affect your water chemistry
should do. Most people recommend using egg crating (light diffuser panels
for drop ceilings) under the substrate to prevent stress points from rocks
or cracks from rocks falling while fish dig. This can be found at places
that sell drop ceiling tiles and equipment. Along the lines of making your
fish feel more secure, a darker substrate will also help your fish show
their best color.
Amateur
www.amateurcichlids.com soon to be www.fishaholics.org