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Live Rock & Sand

(62 items)

Create a strong foundation for your reef with our premium selection of aquarium rocks and sand. Whether you're cycling a new tank or upgrading an existing setup, our collection includes high-quality live rock for saltwater aquariums and reef-safe substrates designed to promote biological filtration and natural aesthetics.

We offer aquarium rocks for sale in various shapes and sizes, including live rock with beneficial bacteria and dry rock ready for aquascaping. Pair it with fine or coarse sand to help support healthy tank parameters and a stable environment for your corals and fish.

Dive Deeper: Info & Tips for Live Rock & Sand

Choosing the right rock and sand for your saltwater aquarium is foundational to building a thriving reef ecosystem. These materials provide not only a natural aesthetic but also vital surfaces for beneficial bacteria, coral attachment, and biological filtration. Whether you’re setting up a new tank or enhancing an existing one, selecting quality live rock, dry rock, and reef sand supports your aquarium’s health and stability.

Explore Our Rock and Sand Selection

Our collection includes a variety of substrates and rock types to suit different aquarium needs:

  • Live Rock: Natural reef rock harvested and cured to provide essential bacteria that kickstart and maintain biological filtration. Live rock also offers habitat for microfauna and invertebrates, enriching biodiversity.
  • Dry Rock: Versatile and easy to shape, dry rock is ideal for aquascaping. It becomes “live” over time as beneficial bacteria colonize its porous surface.
  • Reef Sand: Choose from fine, medium, or coarse grains, all designed to replicate natural reef environments. Sand helps buffer pH and offers a habitat for burrowing creatures.

Each substrate option is carefully selected to ensure reef-safe, non-toxic, and durable materials suitable for both beginners and advanced reef keepers.

Tips for Choosing Rock and Sand

  • Consider tank size and desired aquascape when selecting rock types.
  • Live rock can jump-start your tank’s biological filtration but may introduce pests if not properly cured.
  • Dry rock offers greater control over layout and is often less expensive but requires curing before use.
  • Sand grain size affects tank inhabitants; finer sand is preferred by burrowing species, while coarser sand offers easier cleaning.
  • Always rinse sand and rocks before adding to your aquarium to reduce dust and debris.

Expert Advice

Using a mix of live and dry rock allows you to balance the benefits of immediate biological filtration with customizable aquascaping. Curing dry rock properly is critical to avoid ammonia spikes and ensure a healthy environment. Sand plays an important role in water chemistry, buffering pH and hosting beneficial bacteria. Regular substrate maintenance helps prevent detritus buildup and supports overall tank health. With quality rock and sand, you lay the foundation for a vibrant, sustainable reef aquarium.

Live Rock & Sand FAQs

What is the difference between live rock and dry rock?

Live rock is reef rock that either comes directly from the ocean or has been cured in mature aquariums to cultivate beneficial bacteria and microfauna. This makes it a vital part of establishing biological filtration and creating habitat for small reef creatures. Dry rock, in contrast, is rock that has been dried thoroughly and is free of any life. While easier to shape and often less expensive, dry rock requires curing—either in a tank or separately—before it can support a healthy reef environment.

How do I properly cure dry rock before adding it to my aquarium?

Curing dry rock involves soaking it in saltwater and maintaining stable water conditions to encourage beneficial bacteria growth on the rock’s porous surfaces. Throughout curing, it’s important to monitor ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels and perform water changes as needed to prevent spikes. The process usually takes several weeks, but proper curing is essential to avoid water quality issues and to ensure a safe environment for your corals and fish.

What grain size sand is best for my reef tank?

The best sand grain size depends on your tank inhabitants and maintenance needs. Fine sand closely mimics natural reef substrates and is preferred by burrowing creatures like gobies and pistol shrimp. Coarser sand is easier to clean and less likely to compact, but may not suit species requiring softer substrates. Medium grain sand offers a balanced option. Always choose reef-safe sand that’s free from contaminants to protect your tank’s ecosystem.

Can I mix live rock and dry rock in my aquarium?

Yes, mixing live rock and dry rock is a common and effective approach. Live rock instantly introduces beneficial bacteria and reef microfauna, accelerating biological filtration. Dry rock gives you flexibility in shaping your aquascape and can be added gradually as it cures. Using both helps you balance cost, aesthetics, and biological stability while building a thriving reef.

How should I maintain and clean my aquarium sand and rock?

Regular maintenance involves gentle vacuuming of the sand bed during water changes to remove detritus while preserving beneficial bacteria. For rock, you can blow off debris or use a turkey baster to rinse away algae and detritus without harming corals or tank inhabitants. Avoid excessive cleaning that could disrupt the tank’s biological balance. Spot cleaning and routine observation help keep your rock and sand healthy and your aquarium stable.