Aquarium soil serves as the basis for the growth of aquatic plants, a decorative substrate and an important element of the internal biosphere. To provide comfortable conditions for fish (especially the whimsical tropical ones), it is necessary to take care of high water quality. One way to do this is to buy and place special aquarium soil . But how to choose it, what type of soil should you give preference to? This is what we will discuss in today’s article.
Soil for an aquarium – which one is better to choose?
Why do you need soil for an aquarium?
Beginning aquarists often underestimate the role of soil, naively believing that it is just one of the decorative elements. But you should know that an aquarium is a kind of imitation of a natural reservoir, and many processes take place here that are invisible to the human eye.
Aquarium soil is not only a decorative element
Why do you need soil in an aquarium at all? In addition to decorative, it also performs other functions:
- serves as a substrate in which the roots of aquatic plants are fixed;
- is a habitat for some fish and other organisms;
- plays a biological role.
The last point is worth considering in more detail. Good soil particles have a porous surface, which is gradually colonized by beneficial bacteria. The same thing happens with biological filter media. The excretions of the inhabitants of the aquarium, along with plant debris and food particles, settle to the bottom, where they begin to decompose, releasing toxic substances (such as ammonium and ammonia - they literally poison the water). Even constant water changes will not help with this! That is why a normal ecosystem in an aquarium is impossible without good soil.
Proper soil is the basis of an aquarium
Types and their influence
The choice of black substrate for a home pond should be approached with care, because not only the appearance of the marine aquarium, but also the condition of its inhabitants will depend on it. First of all, please note that black primer can be either natural or colored .
The most common color is artificial soil, which is made from glass and plastic balls. If the coloring is done poorly, this can affect the water and the inhabitants of the aquarium.
Important! Poor quality paint gets into the water, settles on plants and causes harm to organisms. If you are afraid of running into poorly painted soil, I advise you to familiarize yourself with other types of fillers.
However, if painted conscientiously, this primer is quite safe. It should be borne in mind that sometimes natural soils are also painted to give them a brighter color. Here also choose a high-quality color.
Main types of soil for an aquarium
Aquarium substrate can be divided into several types:
- natural _ This includes pebbles, sand (coarse and river), crushed stone, gravel, stones, etc.;
- processed natural . For example, baked clay;
- artificial . For example, plastic chips.
There are different types of soil for an aquarium
Note ! When choosing a particular type of soil, take into account important nuances, which we will discuss below. Each type has its own strengths and weaknesses.
Natural soil
The most popular type, mainly due to the large selection, aesthetic appearance and chemical neutrality. Gravel, pebbles and sand are suitable for most aquarium fish, since, without adding minerals to the water, they are still an excellent breeding ground for bacteria. For aquarium plants, natural soil is not the best option; it must be combined with a substrate, otherwise growth results will appear after a few months.
sea pebbles
When choosing natural soil, consider its fraction. Give preference to well-rolled stones: the gaps between them are small, so the bottom will be well ventilated and the food will not settle in large quantities. If you want to buy fine sand, do it only for decorative purposes (it will cake and sour due to poor ventilation).
Treated natural soil
The most popular material from this group is expanded clay, i.e. baked clay. Expanded clay is natural and neutral, but it is still not recommended for beginners. The material, which is sold in pet stores, has an optimal fraction size: the particles are round and even, and the gap between them is small. When using fertilizers for aquarium plants, clay is an excellent option, as it is a natural adsorbent that prevents the growth of algae.
Expanded clay
On a note ! Other processed natural soils include colored dolomite, coral sand and glass. But they play more of an aesthetic role, because they do not have any advantages over natural soils.
Artificial ground
Often sold in pet stores, it looks like a brightly colored pebble. It looks aesthetically pleasing, is chemically neutral, and is suitable for all fish except those that like to bury themselves in sand (for example, river stingrays). Made from plastic or glass chips.
Glass soil
It is worth knowing that the artificial substrate is not porous (biological functions are reduced) and is not suitable for planting vegetation. To offset these disadvantages, a nutrient base is used (also sold in pet stores).
How long does soil last?
On average, the lifespan of one portion of filler is 5 years. Even with constant regular cleaning, the soil becomes unusable: it silts up, becomes covered with algae, and loses its properties. In addition, choosing a new soil means changing the design and appearance of the aquarium.
You shouldn't do this too often. Replacing the filler is a restart of the aquarium. It is better to transplant the fish into a quarantine aquarium for several days. Why this is done: so that the fish do not swallow a small stone suspension, which one way or another will still remain in the soil and end up in the water.
It takes at least 10-14 days for biological balance to be established. If you make mistakes during the process of changing the soil, a biological explosion may occur: the water in the general aquarium suddenly becomes cloudy due to the abundance of bacteria that multiply at lightning speed. In this case, everything has to start again. Therefore, it is better to find out in advance in detail what kind of soil is needed, what is the best substrate to use for the selected fish and plants.
What soil to choose for an aquarium?
In order for the aquarium to become a comfortable home for its inhabitants and an excellent addition to the interior, you need to take into account some points when choosing soil.
Choosing the right soil for an aquarium
Table. Criteria for choosing soil for an aquarium.
| Name | Short description |
| Fraction size | If the inhabitants are small (small fish, mastocembelas, acatnophthalmus), and the plants have a fragile root system, then a shallow substrate is suitable. For large pets and plants with strong roots - large. |
| Faction form | The particles must be extremely smooth and even, without chips. This will reduce the risk of injury to fish and increase the survival rate of plants. |
| Inhabitants | If fish like to burrow into the ground or dig it (for example, loaches, corydoras, tarakatum, acanthophthalmus), then you need to use a shallow substrate. |
| Color | When choosing a shade, consider the overall style. You can use color rules or play with contrasts. |
The last selection criterion deserves more attention.
Comparison table
In order to buy high-quality soil for an aquarium the first time, which will not harm the fish and will help create a unique composition, it is better to select several options and compare their characteristics using a table.
| Product name | Type | Compound | Fraction size |
| JBL Manado | Natural | Gravel | 3-5 mm |
| ZOLUX Aquasand Nature Quartz Gros | Natural | Gravel | 3-5 mm |
| UDeco River Amber | Natural | Gravel | From 0.1 to 5 mm (depending on model) |
| Prime | Natural | Natural stone | 3-5 mm |
| Tetra ActiveSubstrate | Natural | Clay | Up to 0.1 mm |
| Dennerle DeponitMix Professional | Natural | Clay, sand, gravel, peat | 3-5 mm |
| ISTA Aquarium Substrate Premium Soil | Natural | Quartz gravel | 3-5 mm |
| Barbus | Natural | Pebbles, gravel | 3-5 or 5-10 mm (depending on model) |
| ArtUniq Color | Natural | Quartz sand | 1-2 mm |
| Dennerle Nano Garnelenkies | Natural | fine gravel | 0.7-1.2 mm |
From this top we can conclude that it is better to use natural soil for an aquarium. It does not harm fish, accelerates plant growth, and also allows you to create a unique ecosystem in a closed tank. The best manufacturers of safe soil and the most successful compositions are described above.
What color should aquarium soil be?
Aquarium substrates are available in a wide range of colors. But this does not mean that you can buy the first one you come across. Indeed, for some fish, dark pebbles are not suitable from an aesthetic point of view; for others, a light bottom in combination with bright light provokes stress.
The color of the soil can be any
On a note ! Bright fish look best against a black substrate, goldfish look best against a white substrate, although dirt will be more noticeable on such a substrate. To create an unusual landscape, a multi-colored “Caramel” mixture, glass pebbles or other mixtures intended for decorating the aquarium bottom are often used.
Rating of the best products for tanks with a significant amount of flora
Aquarium water must be saturated with oxygen. Plants will help in this matter. The more there are, the better. Photosynthesis occurs, cleaning the reservoir. Fish feed on plants. They also serve as a place to hide in case of danger. A standard aquarium contains only a few plants. In order for a large amount of flora to look attractive and feel comfortable, it needs to be provided with special conditions, including choosing the optimal soil option.
Power Sand Special M (ADA)
The product consists of standard Power Sand nutrient substrate. The main component is a stone of volcanic origin. There are also Bacter 100 and Clear Super additives. They ensure the rapid proliferation of bacteria that colonize the bottom of the tank. The nutritional components present in the composition are able to ensure ideal water circulation in the deepest water layers. The size and shape of the granules are such that they do not cake and retain their original functions for a long time. The products are produced with granules of different sizes. So, for a large aquarium with a depth of 40 to 60 cm, pebbles of size M are best suited. If the depth does not exceed 40 cm, then you can safely purchase a fraction of size S. Huge tanks with a depth of more than 60 cm require granules of size L.
Power Sand Special acts as a substrate, which is designed to provide active nutrition to the root system of plants. It is imperative to lay the main substrate on top in a layer of 3 - 5 cm. A distinctive feature is that in the first few days after placing the soil in the aquarium, an increase in the content of nitrogen compounds in the water will be observed, so it is worth holding off on introducing the fish.
Purchase price – 5145 rubles.
Primer Power Sand Special M (ADA)
Advantages:
- ensuring constant circulation of water at any depth;
- rate of soil colonization by bacteria;
- special composition for growing flora;
- the maximum concentration of nutrients is released.
Flaws:
- overpriced;
- It is imperative to lay a regular substrate on top;
- It is not recommended to use in conjunction with a bottom filter.
JBL Manado
The product belongs to the category of light and porous. It is not nutritious in itself. Has buffer characteristics:
- absorbs excess fertilizers in water;
- stores them;
- when a deficiency occurs, it throws fertilizer out.
Such properties make it possible to constantly provide plants with the substances necessary for growth and development. The substrate prevents the spread of bad algae. The particles are small and range from 0.5 to 2 mm. The shape is round, there are no sharp edges. Bottom-dwelling fish can move freely around the tank without fear of injury. The neutrality of the composition in relation to water has been proven. Toxic components are not released. Due to the porosity of the structure, intensive proliferation of bacteria occurs. The water is well purified, the root system develops and grows at an accelerated pace.
The main raw material for the production of Manado is clay, which guarantees its lightness. The product is not suitable for creating bottom soil, since it is constantly moving from place to place under the influence of currents. If plants do not grow their roots deeply, they may float. This situation may arise if the tank is inhabited by burrowing fish.
You can purchase the product at a price of 4,395 rubles.
primer JBL Manado
Advantages:
- promotes water filtration;
- do not pollute the liquid with their presence;
- complete safety for the health of aquatic inhabitants;
- able to control algae growth;
- value for money;
- positive reviews;
- are a buffer of nutritional components.
Flaws:
- not suitable for relief design;
- moves easily along the bottom;
- must be used simultaneously with a nutritional support;
- Before using, you must rinse thoroughly.
Dennerle Deponitmix Professional Black 10 in 1, 9.6 kg
The manufacturer of this mixture worked for a long time to improve it before starting mass production. Now it is considered the best option for creating a comfortable living environment. The main component is quartz sand. This substrate is very popular among advanced aquarists. It is able to neutralize harmful compounds formed in the liquid, does not affect its quality, and does not change color.
The elements present in the manufacture in the form of peat, soil and clay make it possible to saturate the water with minerals and nutrients, accumulating them in such quantities that they are sufficient for the growth and development of flora. The chelate (nutrient iron concentrate) contained in the product contributes to the appearance of a rich green tint in plants. The pores of the granules are such that they become a haven for bacteria. The absence of nitrates and phosphates reduces the intensity of algae growth.
The price of the product is 4020 rubles.
primer Dennerle Deponitmix Professional Black 10 in 1, 9.6 kg
Advantages:
- harmless to the inhabitants of the aquarium;
- ideal for any vegetation;
- Selected natural ingredients are used in production;
- promotes plant nutrition;
- does not allow algae to actively reproduce;
- contains mineral and nutritional components.
Flaws:
- must be used simultaneously with a regular substrate;
- there is a possibility of slight acidification of the soil;
- It is necessary to immediately plant the tank with a large amount of flora so that the abundance of nutrients does not become an impetus for the proliferation of algae.
Tetra Active Substrate
The products belong to the category of new products. It is natural and creates an optimal environment for the growth and development of underwater plants. Kumushki with a porous structure, which will allow them to absorb useful substances that are in excess, so that later (when the need arises) they can be thrown back into the water. Experts advise using the composition simultaneously with a nutrient soil concentrate. In stores you can find bags of 3 and 6 kg.
Retailers offer the product at a price of 1,052 rubles.
Tetra Active Substrate
Advantages:
- chemically neutral composition;
- prevents the soil from compacting;
- does not allow the liquid to become contaminated with organic matter;
- activates the development of algae and microflora;
- attractive appearance;
- helps the root system develop;
- rounded granules without sharp corners;
- does not harm aquatic life.
Flaws:
- Before you start using it, you need to rinse it thoroughly to prevent the tank from clogging with clay.
Tetra Plant Complete Substrate 2.5 kg
Soil concentrate is purchased for fresh water tanks. It is designed to create a nutrient medium that is optimally suited for plants and promotes their growth and development. The substrate is suitable for repopulating a “house” or when planting new algae. The manufacturer uses components containing humic substances, iron, macro- and microelements in the manufacture of products. They are completely safe for surrounding living beings and help vegetation develop quickly.
The grains are moderately large. The fraction is such that it is able to hold the root system and prevent the flora from floating to the surface. Young shoots do not break and quickly take root. Phosphates and nitrates are completely absent. This negates the development of pathogenic microflora and the formation of green deposits on the glass walls of containers. The shelf life of the mixture is 1800 days.
Purchase price – 690 rubles.
Tetra Plant CompleteSubstrate 2.5 kg
Advantages:
- one package is good for a 60 liter tank;
- long service life;
- promotes the growth and development of flora;
- has high nutritional value;
- does not allow small algae to spread quickly;
- acceptable price.
Flaws:
- When introducing fish, the water needs to be changed several times;
- should not be used in conjunction with other specific fertilizers.
Prime Aquariums
A type of glazed primer. In specialized retail outlets you can find a wide variety of colors. Particles ranging in size from 3 to 5 mm. Available for sale in 2.7 kg bags. Allows you to activate the growth and development of plants, reduces the likelihood of filling the container with algae. The product is in high demand due to its price-quality ratio, as well as safety. Products can be purchased through the online store.
The average cost is 148 rubles.
Prime Aquarium primer
Advantages:
- attractive appearance;
- acceptable price;
- ease of use;
- variety of colors;
- readiness for use;
- does not change the characteristics of the liquid;
- complete safety for the inhabitants.
Flaws:
- not installed.
What cannot be used as aquarium soil?
Remember the main thing: you cannot put anything in the aquarium that is not intended for it! There is often advice on the Internet regarding cat litter , but such material can simply kill fish. There are also materials when using which you need to be extremely careful.
Cat litter should not be used
For example, glass primer is neutral and aesthetically pleasing, but lacks porosity. But beneficial bacteria, as noted earlier, multiply precisely thanks to the porous bottom. A smooth surface does not retain the nutrients needed by plants. In a word, if you want to decorate the bottom of the aquarium with arrowheads, vallisneria or other vegetation, choose a different bedding, since they will not take root in glass.
Important ! To combine plants and glass soil, beginners sometimes lay it in layers. Forgetting that any aquarium soil must breathe! Due to layering, the soil loses its porosity, and without proper care this will lead to rotting of the root system, stagnation, and waterlogging.
Choosing aquarium soil
Garden soil of any acidity is not suitable for an aquarium The water in it will begin to oxidize, which will provoke decay and, possibly, the death of all inhabitants - both plants and fish.
Features of black quartz
Black quartz or morion is a mineral with a small admixture of aluminum in its composition. The crystal of this mineral is opaque, much like ordinary resin, and when chipped, its edges will allow light to pass through. Morion has been known for a long time. The first mention of “dirty” stones is in the works of Pliny the Elder himself. Ural craftsmen and miners called black aquarium quartz “gypsy” all because of the same unusual appearance.
In terms of its density and physical properties, morion is no different from other varieties of quartz. Interestingly, when heated to a certain temperature, black aquarium quartz changes its brightness and color. This was used in ancient times, and now in factories with this treatment, citrines and rock crystal are obtained from morion.
Large deposits of this mineral can be found in the Ural Mountains, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Brazil, USA, Scotland, Canada and Switzerland. It is not even found on the island of Madagascar. Morion is widely used in aquarium farming.
Laying soil and caring for it
Laying features will depend on the relief you want to see. The bottom of the aquarium can be hilly, flat or asymmetrical. If you plan to plant plants, fill in the nutrient mixture first, and only then fill in the soil.
Laying and maintenance of soil
Before laying, the soil must be washed (and sometimes even disinfected using special means or heat). You need to rinse in a special container until the water is completely clear.
Video - Black primer for aquariums
How to clean
How to care for an aquarium? You need to keep it clean at all times. This applies to water and soil. On sale you can find special cleaning devices consisting of a hose with a cylinder and a funnel at the end. They are called soil purifiers or siphons. Mistakes should not be made when choosing a unit. Much attention is paid to the diameter of the hose. Too large can "absorb" aquatic life, along with debris. It is advisable that the device be equipped with a mesh. Then there will be no excesses. If there is no mesh, you can wrap the hose with gauze.
Before you start cleaning, you need to prepare a bucket to drain the dirty water along with excrement and uneaten food. Manipulations are carried out almost daily. You need to make sure that soil and sand do not get into the hose. Water changes occur once a week.
FAQ. Frequently asked questions about aquarium soil
Do all soils need to be washed after purchase?
No, not all. Laterite should not be washed - it contains a large amount of iron, and if it is washed away, the benefits of the soil (plant nutrition) will be neutralized.
How to determine the required soil weight?
This question is often asked, because soil is sold by weight, but without seeing the fraction, it is impossible to determine specific figures. It is more convenient to calculate by the height of the layer: for the fine fraction (sand) you should take 2-3 cm, for coarse gravel - 5-7 cm.
How to check purchased soil for neutrality?
Neutral soil contains a minimum of minerals, and therefore does not release them to water. To check the substrate for neutrality, you just need to drop vinegar on it. If foam comes out, it means there is calcium carbonate in the soil and it will increase the hardness of the water.
Can I use bright gravel and coral sand?
When buying soil, find out what it is made of. The brightly colored stones use white dolomite, rich in magnesium and calcium, and is only suitable for African cichlids and other fish that need hard water. Coral sand also contains a lot of calcium carbonate. If your water is soft, then such soil is suitable, otherwise it can cause the death of fish.
The presence of harmful substances in the soil: how not to harm the aquarium and its inhabitants?
When considering such an important issue as choosing a substrate for an aquarium, it is important to pay attention to the fact that some of its types may contain harmful substances that are harmful to plants and fish.
We are talking about 3 types of gravel:
- Coral sand;
- Shell rock;
- Marble.
All of the above substances contain calcium carbonate, which tends to quickly dissolve in water, as a result of which its hardness increases.
Soil selection criteria
The substrate placed on the bottom of the herbal aquarium should help create conditions in the aquatic environment that are closest to natural ones. Soil is the basis for plant rooting and a habitat for fish and other inhabitants of the aquarium. It must meet a number of requirements. Otherwise, beneficial bacteria will not be able to develop inside the aquarium, decomposing food residues and waste products of the aquarium inhabitants into mineral substances useful for plants.
To ensure and maintain optimal biobalance in the aquarium, the soil must have the following characteristics:
- Increased porosity. Having free space between particles is necessary for the growth of beneficial bacteria.
- The size of the fractions is from 3 to 5 mm.
- No foreign matter or stones.
- Uniform and sufficient roundness. Fractions with sharp corners quickly cake and injure the bodies of the aquarium inhabitants.
- Inert indicators of chemical substances content.
- Sufficient nutrient content.
It is not permissible to use excessively light soil in a herbal aquarium. The optimal compositions are made from 3 types of filler: granite, quartz and basalt. In them, plants take root better and absorb nutrients for rapid growth. All other breeds are difficult to siphon.
An important selection criterion is the type of specific ecosystem and type of vegetation. Plants have different substrate requirements. For example, the soil may be intended for ground cover plants (hemianthus, eliocharis, glossostima) and be unsuitable for large species (echinodorus, cryptocarines).
Is Soil always needed in a herbalist?
Nutrient soil is a tool with which you can correctly or incorrectly organize the maintenance of a herbal aquarium. The cost of soyl is quite high, and its use is not always 100% justified.
Let's try to understand the features of using this type of soil:
- Soil is necessary if you plan a dense herbal garden with a predominance of plants planted in the ground. If you plan to create moss grass, mountain cascades from hemianthus, Monte Carla, Yu Soil is absolutely not needed. In this case, the plants in the water must take nutrition from the water, and the soil will absorb part of the water and buffer it in the soil.
- When choosing a Soil, carefully read the recommendations on the packaging and, most importantly, follow the aquarium startup plan. Nutritious, expensive soil does not always guarantee success. Each aquarium is individual and the water flowing from the tap is different for everyone. Lighting conditions and the selection of plants also differ. Therefore, the soil successfully used by someone does not at all guarantee a successful outcome for everyone. Some parameters of water hardness lead to the disintegration of even high-quality soil from a cool manufacturer into dust. While other substrates work quite well.
- Take into account the charge level of the soil, since substrates differ in this indicator. Do not rely on forum chatter - “this is a weak soil, and this one is strong...”. Read the instructions and ingredients. Choose those that are needed for your project. It doesn't have to be super-concentrated Soyl. It is better to take a composition with a high content of microelements. And add the macro yourself.
