sand like rock

[onix]

today when I am cleaning the tank I note that some areas of DSB are solidiffied..very hard like a rock. Is this normal? My tank is running good..thanks God...only normal brown light algae in glass but no problems
The tank is ~ 5 month
Thanks people

 

[Boomer]

It has happen to a few. Theory has it, it is bactreria or the pH gets to a point where there is disolution and then re-precip = solid. Craig Bingman spoke of this many years ago. We call it "sandbed clumping"

sandbed clumping - Google Search

 

[prow]

i have had it before. always thought it was more ph related but now i think its more of a bacteria and nitrofixation thing. but, no worries for you, its not uncommon and never heard of anyone having issue because of it.

 

[sasquatch]

ewww! like where the kitty goes? never let the cat go in the tank lol. Onix I dont know if its permanent or can be broken up, maybe ask again? Steve