opinions on Bare bottoms tanks or Deep sand bed

[mr_anderson]

I am currently running a 55 gallon with BB on my main tank. I have a 15 gallon refugum with a deep sand bed w/chaeto. I have to admit that my nitrates are undetectable and am very happy with this setup. However, I recently bought a 120 gallon and the guy who sold me the tank also gave me all his sand. I would say 3" deep in the 120. I'm looking for some opinions on going bare or with the sand on this new setup.

questions:
1. is it true that Deep sand beds have a life expectantcy of ~ 3-5 years and need to be removed afterwards?


Thanks ahead for the responds guys.