TYPES AND TYPES OF SOIL. WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY
Types and types of aquarium grounds. What you need to know before buying
There are two factors to consider when you choose a substrate. First, what will be functional for you and best for the fish. A level aquarium surface should be your top priority. The second factor is what makes the aquarium look good and harmonise with whatever design and decoration you have planned.
Gravel has long been the most popular aquarium substrate. It is the ideal medium for most tanks.
The gravel you buy in pet shops is a specially selected type of substrate for use in aquariums. It should have smooth edges that cannot harm your fish, and be inert so it does not dissolve in the water.
Aquarium gravel is available in various sizes and colours. All these factors combine to make this type of substrate ideal for the novice aquarist.
Sand is a common substrate used in many aquariums. This option is available in a variety of colours, making it a good aid in creating a nice looking tank for the fish.
Sand is an ideal medium for fish that like to dig in or bury themselves in it. Due to its small particle size, sand may damage the filters.
Crushed rocks. Crushed marbles are calcium carbonate-based aquarium substrates. The calcium carbonate substrate will slowly dissolve in the water. This process works as a countermeasure against accumulated acid or decomposing organic matter in the water tank. This makes this type of filler ideal for fish that prefer higher pH levels. The advantage of marble chips is that they are cheaper, available in different shades, and less porous than other types of minerals.
Aquarists who want to recreate a real underwater world should choose their substrate carefully. Sand or gravel are only suitable for decorative purposes when living plants cannot be planted. Instead, so-called "soils" are used for strong and effective plant growth. Before the soil is backfilled, a base of lava granules is formed. Because of its porous surface structure you will get a strong bond and thus form a stable base for larger stone structures and roots. Highly porous lava rock helps to loosen soil that is too dense and ensures ideal circulation of water and nutrients.
In addition to natural types of substrate, artificial fillers can also be used. They are made of several types of plastic or tempered glass as well as various plastic materials. These elements are usually flat rather than spherical and come in different colours. They provide great design possibilities for your aquarium.
However, artificial soil is generally not the best substrate, as the gaps between the individual balls are quite large, making large foodstuffs difficult to collect, as well as making it difficult to collect beneficial bacteria.
Artificial substrate is often used in breeding tanks because the eggs (or fry) can end up in the gaps and thus be safe from being eaten by parents or other hungry fish.
When choosing a substrate for your fish, it is best to consult a specialist in a pet shop beforehand. With his help, you will be able to choose a substrate to create a perfect aqua world that is beautiful, safe and practical.
