However, an outside power or canister filter will adequately keep the water clean, but be sure the intake stems are well screened. Sand darters are very skinny and can fit into some surprisingly small openings. They also do not function as the best filtration medium. On small aquariums, a sponge filter which is cleaned on a regular basis will suffice. Additional aeration should be provided if there is little or no perceptible current circulating through the aquarium.
Sand tends to compact itself.
The sucker's feeding activity will assure the sand gets churned over and will effectively scavenge uneaten food. Valisneria plants located in the rear or side sections of the sand aquarium will add subtle beauty to an otherwise dull tank. Sporadically placed rocks should not hurt the sand darters, but are rare in the species' natural habitat. However, buried rocks would interfere with the substrate-diving habits of the sand darters. Once again, the casual keeper of sand darters will usually find it unnecessary to maintain sand in the aquarium.