Fish tanks have been around for ages and are still popular today! Some people enjoy having a small tank to keep their favorite types of fish, while others enjoy keeping many different fish species at once. Regardless of what type of fish tank you choose, you need to ensure that you have the proper planted aquarium substrate to provide the perfect environment for your fish.
Several kinds of fish tank substrates include gravel, sand, coconut fiber, peat moss, sphagnum moss, and even wood chips.
Gravel is probably the most traditional choice for a fish tank substrate. You place a layer of gravel on top of the aquarium water to help hold down any unwanted debris and prevent them from floating away. Gravel is great because it doesn’t take up much space and provides a safe environment for your fish to live in.
Sand is another excellent candidate for fish tank substrate. Sand is ideal for the beginner who wants something simple yet effective. It’s cheap and easy to find, making it ideal for beginners who don’t mind spending some time searching for the right kind. Sand does not easily break down over time, so it does not need to be replaced often. On the downside, sand does not allow live plants to thrive inside your tank, as it cannot hold onto enough oxygen.
Coconut fiber is a good option for those who would rather keep live plants instead of fish in their aquarium. Coconut fiber is composed of shredded coconut husks, and these husks act as natural filters for your aquarium. They filter out impurities that could harm your fish, such as chemicals and heavy metals. Additionally, they do not clog easily, so they do not need to be cleaned frequently.
Peat moss is another fish tank substrate made from organic materials that work well for reef environments. Peat moss comes from decaying organic matter, and it is commonly used in aquaria for its ability to hold lots of oxygen and provide a nice habitat for fish.
Sphagnum moss is a highly recommended fish tank substrate for those who enjoy adding live plants to their aquarium. Sphagnum moss grows naturally underwater, and it helps to create a stable environment for your fish and provides a lot of oxygen to the fish.
The above list is only a small sample of the many types of aquarium substrates that are available. If you are interested in learning more about the various options available to you. This article helped to inform you about the many different types of fish tank substrates.
