VACUUMING: Sand vs. Gravel (Plus 9 Bonus Tips!)

Let's talk about substrate. I've used several kinds and each require a different kind of care. In this video we look at caring for sand vs. gravel. What I like and what I dislike about each.
What do you use? Why did you choose that substrate? How do you care for it? Please share any thoughts you have on this subject in the comments below. Be a part of "The Convo Gang" because on this channel, "We all learn from each other!"
If you're like me and like to always be learning about how to take better care of our fish, how about hitting that sub button and bell? Thanks!
**Here are some links to products that I've used and recommend**
(You get a great deal by using these links and help to support the channel because Amazon gives me a small percentage without it impacting your cost one cent, thanks!)
Filters:
SunSun 302-B (265 gph): https://amzn.to/2Y6Ylhy
SunSun 704-B (525 gph with UV): https://amzn.to/2YFbHjV
SunSun HW 3000 (793 with UV): https://amzn.to/3hCm54W
Filter pads for all SunSun filters: https://amzn.to/30Ieg7E
Cut your own filter pads: https://amzn.to/2zD6SiP
Pinky filter floss: https://amzn.to/30QLNMS
SunSun Pre-Filter (goes over intake): https://amzn.to/3fv6aU1
Flexible hose cleaning brush: https://amzn.to/2N5x8p7
SunSun Pre-Filter (In-Line Canister): https://amzn.to/2UQ79WX
SunSun Canister O-Ring replacement: https://amzn.to/2BhU7uf
SunSun UV 9W replacement bulb: https://amzn.to/2N0eoHB
Suggested Bio Media that I use in my canisters:
Biohome Ultimate: https://amzn.to/3e8Cs70
MarinePure: https://amzn.to/37z9UB7
CNZ sponge filled bio-balls: https://amzn.to/3e7aitd
Pumice stone: https://amzn.to/2Y6vk5t
Crushed coral/aragonite: https://amzn.to/2N6DYKM
Chemical Filtration I've Used with Good Results:
Seachem Purigen: https://amzn.to/3hCygyG
Seachem Matrix Carbon: https://amzn.to/2Y6sOft
Mesh bags: https://amzn.to/2AJb4hj
Other items:
Suggested substrate (aragonite): https://amzn.to/2N6DYKM
My favorite LED lights: https://amzn.to/2N0YrRd
Inexpensive Powerheads: https://amzn.to/2N5dTMu
Better quality Powerhead (Hydor): https://amzn.to/37y8pTT
Heaters I use:
Eheim: https://amzn.to/3e2PByp
Cobalt Neo Therm: https://amzn.to/2N5eFZU
API (Black Plastic Shielded): https://amzn.to/3e8HujY
Recommended Meds to have on hand:
Fritz Maracyn 2: https://amzn.to/2UJRqJ1
API Furan 2: https://amzn.to/2N10iWb
API General Cure: https://amzn.to/3ejsFLe
Kordon Ick Attack: https://amzn.to/37A2iOF
Seachem Metroplex: https://amzn.to/2N5g9TY
Seachem Garlic Guard: https://amzn.to/2N3W549
Seachem Focus: https://amzn.to/2Ax8yef
Water Treatment Products I Use & Recommend:
Seachem Prime: https://amzn.to/37xa1gD
Seachem Safe: https://amzn.to/3d7Tscn
Seachem Lake Salt: https://amzn.to/30PeQ3A
Seachem Pristine: https://amzn.to/3ejvEDq
Seachem Clarity: https://amzn.to/2CdDCA4
Aquarium Quick Start Products I Recommend:
Seachem Stability: https://amzn.to/3e2SgYS
Fritz Turbo Start: https://amzn.to/3d7UXr1
Dr. Tim's One and Only: https://amzn.to/2CdEFju
**For more fish keeping videos with tricks, tips and hacks, check out these playlists**
For "My Best Fish Keeping Tips" click here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list...
For tips and tricks with Fluval FX canister filters go here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list...
For tips and tricks with SunSun canister filters go here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list...
For videos on water changes and controlling nitrates, click here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list...
For videos on general canister filter maintenance, click here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list...
My Top 10 most popular videos of all time:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list...
Did you know that there's a friendly and very helpful group of fish keepers on Facebook? It's called "Ben O'Cichlid" Stop by and ask to join. Be sure to answer all the join-in questions so that the admin approve and let you in (it's how we keep the trolls and bots out!). Also, for behind the scenes pictures and videos follow me on Instagram at: "ben.o.cichlid"
Support your local fish store, join clubs and groups that safeguard the future of our hobby. I'm a member the American Cichlid Association. You can visit them here: cichlid.org
Stop by on most Saturdays at 10am (Pacific) for the Cichlids & Coffee live stream. Great people, great topics and I get to answer your questions LIVE! Why not watch the stream while drinking out of a Ben O'Cichlid coffee mug or wearing a channel hoodie or tee. Visit my store here: https://teespring.com/stores/ben-ocha... and be sure to use the code "LIVESTREAM" for a 10% discount at check-out.
Shout-out to Christopher Martin for the Cichlids & Coffee logo and to Sam Penny for the Youtube channel banner art. And a big thank you to Phil Griffiths for the dropping fish video and channel icon!
**Never forget - you reading this right now - YOU ROCK!**