Having an aquarium means knowing which fish tank type and size is best, which filters to go for, which fish species to take care of, and which aquarium substrates to use. One of the most important decisions you have to make is choosing the right substrate according to the type of fish tank you have. Many hobbyists actually prefer aquarium gravel.
One of the easiest ways to spruce up the look of your aquarium is to use a decorative background. A fish tank background often comes in different plain colors, designs, or landscapes. You can choose the design you want according to theme, your personal preferences, and, of course, according to your budget.
An aquarium substrate is often chosen for its decorative purpose, as it lends a more natural look to the fish tank. But more than this, choosing the right substrate can make the entire fish tank environment more comfortable for your fish. When light is reflected from overhead into the glass bottom, this can be very uncomfortable for the fish. For fish-only aquariums, the right substrate can also encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria.
One of the most popular substrates used by many aquarists nowadays is gravel. Many pet stores sell gravel in various types, making it a convenient choice. Gravel is also easy to maintain, easy to clean, and does not affect the quality of the water as well.
There are actually many themes to choose from. You can recreate a fantasy land, an Asian-inspired landscape, a pirate cove, or an outdoor garden landscape. If you have an aquarium, you can easily experiment with your creative and decorative skills by using the right accessories and tank decorations.
Colored aquarium gravel has risen in popularity especially for decorative means. It is best to choose plain gravel, however, as painted ones tend to lose their color over time. If the gravel is clear-colored, you can easily check if some rotten food particles have been left underneath.
Make sure that you maintain the ideal height or depth when placing gravel in your fish tank. Two inches to three inches is enough, since a depth of more than three inches may increase the appearance of hydrogen sulfite due to rotten food particles and other impurities.
Fine gravel is more ideal for bottom dwellers or bottom feeders. If you have a planted aquarium, you will need to use a nutrient-rich layer as the base. Gravel may be used for the upper layer. For fish tanks with crustaceans such as crabs, aquarium gravel is also recommended.
Sean Kerring is an aquarium enthusiast and breeder who has been working with fish for over twenty years, when his parents gave him his very first . He always uses innovative and differently colored aquarium lights to change the themes of each of his tanks, including different materials.
