Crushed coral substrate

[snorkler]

I have a 29 gallon tank that has 2.5 inch deep crushed coral for the substrate.My question,is this type of substrate prone to nitrate buildup?

[Savatage]

Well, I really don't know for sure, but it is a little more of a pain to deal with. If you run into any bad hair-algae problems, you won't be able to harvest it out too easily. Also, like rocks, I think you would have to clean the substrate, but I'm not too sure on that one. Sand is, by far, better in my eyes. Getting a larger tank will help with controling water conditions. The smaller the tank, the more dramatic the chemistry swings can be, causing extreme stress. I run a 75gal w/45gal. sump. Not too many problems.
Good luck with your tank. Let me know in a few months how the crushed coral works for you.