Need help with blue rams and sand substrate

[sharkbait1213]

Ok I have a 20g long, looking to put in some blue rams. i have all the water conditions needed etc. im just curious though if they need plants to hide in or caves or tunnels etc etc??
ALso how well will they do with a sand substrate?? I really like the look of sand but im afraid it will mess up the H.O.B filter?!?!
Also, how does one clean sand?? Wouldnt vac'ing it suck up all the sand?? along with the poop and un-eaten food??
Furthermore, what other fish or invertebrates could i put in the tank with them to help control algae and the uneaten food at the bottom??

Thank you for the help!! Any information on blue rams, and having sand as a substrate would be greatly appreciated!! Thanks!!

[Damon]

Plants aren't necessary but are a deffinite boost. They help with water conditions, and allow the rams to feel more at home.

Sand works fine with HOB filters. Easier to clean than gravel as you don't have to dig but hover the gravel vac over the sand. Debris doesn't get trapped in sand like gravel but stays on top. Keep from stirring sand up and you will be fine.

[maxpayne_lhp]

_Firstly, welcome to the board!
_I don't think Ram will be timid and hide all the time. But some plats can be good. And these guys look so awsome among the live plants too! Believe me, it's one of the best fish for planted tank here due to its coloration.
_As Simpte has said that the dbris won't get stick into the sand so you can increase the height of the vacuum when it's operating. So it's quite easy to maintain
Good luck!

[fish_doc]

Welcome, And if you want to find a few hiding places where you can still see them. You can try Terra Cotta planters. You can set them in your tank whole or cut them in half and make two caves out of them. Be sure to use new ones. Used ones may contain chemicals due to fertlizers used in them for plants.