DSB-what about a gypsum base sand?

[SirDudeness]

I need to put in a DSB into my 46 gal tank,I have a chance to get a gypsum base sand from a old dried up ocean bed,White Sands in New Mexico,would this sand work or should I go another way ??????
thanks-James:beer:

[piercho]

Hello again Mr Dudeness. Dr Ron Shimek describes the components of a succesful DSB on his website, here:

http://www.rshimek.com/reef/sediment.htm

You will find that .050 to .200 mm is the recommended grain size. I believe that most forms of gypsum are much, much finer than this.

[SirDudeness]

thanks Piercho,I,ll check that site out-James

[OodleyBoodely]

Having grown up in the area, I am familiar with White Sands and I can tell you that the sand is composed of pure gypsum. I believe, due to its alkaline nature that it probably would cause extremely high ph. The ground water in the area generally runs off the ph scale at 9.0 and above (that's why the 'lakes' are called alkali sinks). Also, you don't want to get caught relieving NM of one of its natural treasures - they tend to string you up first and ask questions later.:eek2: :rolleyes: