Planning the right amount of substrate for your aquarium is key to creating a healthy environment that will support plant growth and provide a safe space for your fish. The amount of substrate you need depends not only on the size of your aquarium, but also on whether you are using sand or gravel.
Sand vs. Gravel – What's the difference?
- Sand is finer, ideal for sensitive fish like armadillos that like to dig around on the bottom. However, it requires more frequent maintenance as it can become clogged and trap organic waste. Using fine sand also requires more material as its denser structure means less volume between the grains.
- Gravel is coarser and allows water to flow better, minimizing debris buildup. Its larger particles allow for better water and oxygen circulation, which helps keep the substrate clean. For plants that need to take root, gravel is a better choice because it provides solid support for the root system.
How much substrate do you need for different aquarium sizes?
Here is a rough guide to how much substrate you will need for different aquarium sizes if you want to create a layer 4-5 cm thick:
| Aquarium size | Sand (kg) | Gravel (kg) |
|---|---|---|
| 10 liters | 2-3 kg | 2-3 kg |
| 20 liters | 4-6 kg | 4-6 kg |
| 30 liters | 6-8 kg | 6-8 kg |
| 60 liters | 15-17 kg | 12-15 kg |
| 100 liters | 20-25 kg | 18-20 kg |
| 180 liters | 35-45 kg | 35-40 kg |
| 200 liters | 40-50 kg | 40-45 kg |
Formula for calculating substrate:
To accurately calculate the amount of substrate, you can use a simple formula:
Aquarium length (cm) x aquarium width (cm) x required substrate thickness (cm) / 1000 = liters of substrate
To convert liters to kilograms, you can calculate that 1 liter of substrate corresponds to approximately 1.4 kg of sand or 1.2 kg of gravel.
Tips for choosing a substrate:
- Plants : A nutrient substrate is important for plants with deep roots. Combined with sand or gravel, it will allow healthy plant growth.
- Fish : Sensitive fish species such as armadillos or fish that like to burrow into the substrate prefer finer sand.
- Maintenance : Sand may need more frequent siphoning due to its fine texture. Gravel, on the other hand, provides better circulation, which can reduce debris buildup.
Conclusion
The right amount of substrate and its type depend on your preferences and aquarium requirements. Sand provides a soft surface suitable for fish that like to burrow, while gravel offers better support for plants. Choosing a substrate that matches the size of your aquarium and the needs of its inhabitants is crucial for the long-term health and beauty of your underwater world. If you need help with selection or calculation, please do not hesitate to contact us.
See our complete range of substrates .