those posts really surprized me.

that sand was not only NOT a good idea for
goldfish in the tank but also was not good for them at all? It was stated
thast the sand Irritated the gills?

I don't know who invented the gill irritation story but I know it's
conjecture
at best.
Every pond in the world gets dirt in it and the result is multi sized
grains of
"sand" on the bottom.
Fish gills are a marvel dealing with the elements found suspended in
water.
I can say that the finer the sand, the better the bottom stays clean and
watching my fish forage in it, they suck up lots of sand and blow it out.
Never
a problem, after many years of sand.

Oh that is great to hear! I live in Chicago and go to the Shedds Aquarium at
least 2 - 3 times a month. I was there today and asked a number of people ,
whom I have to say some laughed at the very question. And basically told me,
unless the sand is contanimated, sharp objects, washed with soap or not
rinsed there might be a problem, but for the probelm to be caused by the
sand they never heard of.

My fish seem to love the sand! One used to be in a tank with gravel, then a
bare bottom now and for some time sand, and I can really see the difference
in him!

Thanks,

Kay