Salt Test for sand from the beach

[Aquaculture]

I'm planning to use some fine white sea sand from the beach. Have washed it thoroughly but am worried that it may still contain salt as I'm using it for a pleco tank. May I know if there is any test kit to test for salt?

I've did the tasting test...tasted plain to me but just wanna make sure.

[benny]

For plecos, always use river sand. Sand from the beachs are usually not pH neutral. Most likely to raise your pH. Do take note.

Cheers,

[Aquaculture]

Oh! thought its inert and reefers add addictives to increase their tank's ph to about 8.5...haiz. I'm planning to use it in a L46 tank I'm setting up. Will test the ph later tonight, hopefully its between 6.0 - 7.5 as it lives around that range.

The sand is actually free. My Dad collected it from Brunei years ago but didn't use it and my Mom.... well, she's thrilled that I'm helping get rid of this 'rubbish'.

I'm now worried with this new information.... really got to cross my fingers till it breaks.

[benny]

Well.... it's a good thing you asked instead of just assuming.

Cheers,

[Aquaculture]

So correct on that... thanks Benny. Haven't have time to test yet. Hope it isn't a waste, after spending so much time on it.

[Aquaculture]

I've tested the ph to be 7.5. I've clarified that the sand is actually from land, not the sea. Sorry for the wrong information. It is actually used for making glass.

Does any one know if its alright to use it for pleco? The ph is in the upper limit though.

Thanks.

[bossteck]

I think ph is just one of the parameter you have to worry about. Does the sand contain minerals that will alter the hardness of your water? You probably need to measure that as well.

To get an indication of whether it is safe, you can consider adding a few inexpensive fishes into your setup before adding the 'main cast'