Pros and cons of bare bottom reef?

Justin1997 · Apr 7, 2015

I have a 60 cube, going to be moving in the summer. I've seen some nice reefs on here that are bare bottom, I like the look just wondering if there's any special maintenance. Also what kind of fish would I be able to get with no sand in a 60 cube

reef life · Apr 7, 2015

No special maintenance with a BB. Water changes are easy just use hose to remove debris on bottom. Pro: High flow with no sand storm. If coral falls on bottom or chalice flips over it will still be alive the next day. I had to increase feeding to keep up nutrients in my 180. Still love my BB!

Justin1997 · Apr 7, 2015

reef life said:
No special maintenance with a BB. Water changes are easy just use hose to remove debris on bottom. Pro: High flow with no sand storm. If coral falls on bottom or chalice flips over it will still be alive the next day. I had to increase feeding to keep up nutrients in my 180. Still love my BB!

That's the thing you have a 180 with big selection of fish, not sure if I'll be narrowing out a majority of fish I'm able to get.

reef life · Apr 7, 2015

You will have to check on what you can put in a 60 with or without sand. Its been a while since i've had a cube.

CharlesV · Apr 7, 2015

Pros:
-Can run extremely high flow without worrying about sandstorms.
-Easy detritus removal.
-Corals encrusting onto the bottom glass looks awesome!

Cons:
-No sand sifters, or fish that sleep in the sand (wrasses other than fairys and flashers)
-Detritus buildup more visible
-No sand critters to stare at