Aquarium Substrates

What is aquarium substrate?

Aquarium substrate is a layer of gravel, sand, or planting soil that is added to the base of your tank. Substrate isn't just for decoration, it hosts beneficial bacteria that filters waste on a molecular level, giving plant roots somewhere to anchor, and lets fish forage the way they would in the wild.

Should I choose gravel, sand, or planting soil?

For a community tank, gravel and sand both work well and the decision depends mostly on the fish you are keeping, as some are better suited to one over the other. For a planted or shrimp tank, a dedicated substrate is worth considering. Aquascaping soil is designed to feed roots without clouding your water, providing the ideal base to support growth.

How much substrate do I need?

Not sure how much to buy? Our aquarium substrate calculator estimates how much sand or gravel you'll need for your tank, so you're not left short. Grain size is important to consider too, as fine sand is perfect for bottom-dwellers like corydoras that sift through soft sand for food, while coarse gravel is easier to keep clean for faster maintenance.

Looking for something else?

If you're interested in basing your tank with decorative stones rather than a full substrate base, our pebbles and cobbles selection provides the perfect selection of products for your tank. This range is ideal for hardscaping, covering the tank floor, or can be used in combination with gravel or sand for the perfect natural look.