Difference Between Live & Dead Sand

Sand with plant growth.

Sand can be transported by wind and water and is found along oceans forming beaches and sand dunes. But it is also found within dry desert areas and can be part of the soil.

Dead Sand

Dead sand consists of fine, loose grains of minerals or rock (consisting mainly of quartz), ranging in size from 0.06 mm to 2 mm. It is yellowish-brown. The grains can be sharp-edged or rounded. There are not living organisms in dead sand.

Live Sand

Live sand has small organisms, such as helpful bacteria, living around the grains.

Considerations

Dead sand is used as a component of building materials (such as cement). The organisms in live sand aid in maintaining a balance in the ecosystems of saltwater aquariums through actions such as decomposition.

References

• Fish Lore: Aquarium Fish Definition and Glossary: Live Sand

Resources

• "Earth: An Introduction to Physical Geology"; Edward J. Tarbuck, Frederick K. Lutgens; 2005