Substrate

From The Aquarium Wiki

[edit] About Substrate

Substrate refers to the bottom of a body of water which is usually covered with sand, stone, gravel and various debris. Different aquatic animals require different types of substrate to mimic their natural enviroment and to make them feel less stress.

For example:

A black or near dark coloured substrate is often best for brightly coloured fish as it makes them feel less conspicuous and it also serves as a good contrast to showing off their colours.
Sand is used to allow those fish (Puffers) that like to dig into the sand to hide or perhaps to allow them to sift out food particles. For example Angelfish and Corys do this.

[edit] Types of Substrate

There are many different types.

Sand:
- Coral sand - medium fine made up of crushed coral and shells. Designed to add Calcium to the water.
- Live sand - contains live bacteria and fine coral sand for marine tanks.
- B.D. Aquarium Sand - plain sand that doesn't alter ph. Suitable for fresh or marine tanks.
- CaribSea Sand - available in different colours.

Gravel:

There are dozens of different types of gravel available in dozens of colours. Some of the more colourful gravel is actually coated in plastic and may not be suitable for long term submerging in tanks.

Soil:
- Ecosystems Miracle Mud for marine tanks.
- Floramax - An inert, natural gravel for freshwater aquariums.
- Aquatic soil - Basic pond soil sold by garden centres. A soil which has been sterilised.