1. What is Live Sand?

Live sand is natural reef sand that contains beneficial bacteria and marine organisms essential for establishing biological filtration in saltwater aquariums. It helps create a natural marine environment.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses these formulas:

Where:

• \( Length \) — Aquarium length in meters
• \( Width \) — Aquarium width in meters
• \( Depth \) — Desired sand bed depth in meters
• 1600 — Standard density of live sand in kg/m³

Explanation: The calculation determines both the volume of sand needed and its approximate weight for proper aquarium setup.

3. Importance of Proper Sand Calculation

Details: Accurate sand calculation ensures proper biological filtration, prevents anaerobic dead zones, and maintains appropriate depth for burrowing organisms while avoiding excessive weight on aquarium supports.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure your aquarium dimensions accurately. Typical sand bed depths range from 2-5 cm (0.02-0.05 m) for reef tanks, up to 10 cm (0.1 m) for deep sand bed systems.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is density fixed at 1600 kg/m³?
A: This is the standard density for wet, packed live sand. Dry sand would have a different density.

Q2: How deep should my sand bed be?
A: Depends on tank type: 2-5 cm for most reef tanks, 10+ cm for deep sand bed systems.

Q3: Can I use this for freshwater aquariums?
A: No, freshwater substrates have different densities. This calculator is specifically for marine live sand.

Q4: Should I account for rock displacement?
A: Yes, if you have significant rockwork, you may need slightly less sand than calculated.

Q5: How often should live sand be replaced?
A: Properly maintained sand beds can last for years. Partial changes may be needed if compaction occurs.