Dig in and Learn All About Gravel and Substrate in your Aquarium

It's official; fish dig high quality gravel and substrate.

Gravel and substrate isn't simply pretty. It's the foundation of your aquarium. From filtration to aesthetics, gravel and substrate are key for happy fish, plants, and filter feeders. Supporting overall tank health starts at the bottom and works its way throughout your entire habitat. Getting started on a home aquarium can be a bit daunting, but with the right foundation, your new tank is sure to come together swimmingly.

A Green Thumb

Just like terrestrial plants, live aquatic plants need appropriate soil. Second only to light, substrate is the single most important factor in ensuring live plants thrive in an at-home aquarium. Laterite and vermiculite are the best substrates for aquatic plants due to their amazing ability to store and release nutrients.

For a more decorative approach, mix in a bit of gravel and watch your garden take root!

Free House Cleaning

The biggest role of gravel and substrate is tank filtration. Appropriate gravel and substrate provide a home for "good bacteria" to thrive. These beneficial bugs help break down waste from the tank's inhabitants, leftover food, and plant debris.  In following, natural filtration balances levels of ammonia and nitrite to sustain aquatic life.

For the home aquarium enthusiast, this means you can spend less time cleaning your tank and more time admiring your happy aquarium.

A Place to Relax

Building an appropriate habitat for fish, corals, snails, frogs, and more starts with providing a safe place for aquatic creatures to relax. Many fish enjoy burrowing into substrate and foraging for food. Gravel and substrate provide necessary enrichment while also mitigating light conditions in the tank. Depending on the size and species of fish, you'll want to select corresponding pebble sizes that are easy to move.

Explore different colors, styles, and textures to see what works best for your aquarium. Not sure where to start? Contact our experts today for aquarium specific advice and ideas!