L144 Pleco substrate?

[clintgv]

Is fine sand ok as a substrate for L144 pleco? Soon after selling all the yellow lab fries (1-2") I am planning to make my 22 gallon long tank into a L144 pleco tank. I heard that sand might not be good substrate for these plecos as the sand will scratch there belly?

I know there are a few L144 pleco breeders here on BCA. Was just wondering what substrate you guys use.

PS: I won't be making it a planted tank. Maybe driftwood with moss and the rest pleco caves? Or maybe some plants that don't eco substrate and co2?

Thanks.

[mikebike]

I have sand, crushed coral, gravel, and chicken grit(crushed granite) in my various tanks and the L144's have not complained<G>
They have laid and hatched eggs on all of them

[clintgv]

I have sand, crushed coral, gravel, and chicken grit(crushed granite) in my various tanks and the L144's have not complained<G>
They have laid and hatched eggs on all of them

Oh ok thanks alot for the response. Do you know by any chance of any plants that can survive without co2 and eco complete substrate? With only a lighting system for planted tanks I think.

[Patsfan]

I'd think fine sand would be okay. I'm using 3M colorquartz S grade and it's great. I have java moss with those cheap compact flourescent screw type bulbs with no CO2 or ferts and it seems to be doing fine aside from some BBA starting to form. I can give you some moss if you want.
Pete