Getting the Right Aquarium Decorations
Having an aquarium means knowing which fish tank type and size is best, which filters to go for, which fish species to take care of, and which aquarium substrates to use. One of the most important decisions you have to make is choosing the right substrate according to the type of fish tank you have. Many hobbyists actually prefer aquarium gravel.
You need to remember that you just can’t carelessly use some kinds of substrates with certain types of aquariums. If you have a planted aquarium, for example, you should use a nutrient-rich layer for the plants to survive. Aquarium gravel is used by many aquarists, especially those who own tropical and fish-only tanks.
Some people prefer having a plain glass bottom for their fish tanks. But if you want a more natural look, adding the right substrate can improve the look of your tank successfully. The substrate also protects your fish from the irritating glare of the aquarium lights, especially when reflected from the glass bottom.
Many aquarium owners prefer using gravel since this is one of most commonly used fish tank substrate nowadays. You can find gravel in most aquarium and pet stores. Also, gravel does not require heavy maintenance, although you will still need to check them regularly for any trapped food or other impurities.
If you only have fish in your aquarium, you can use aquarium gravel since it provides an ideal environment for the growth of beneficial bacteria. You can find coarse options and finer varieties of gravel in pet stores, from 3mm to 4mm in sizes.
One of the most effective ways to lend a more natural look to your tank is to add plants. You can choose among real plants and artificial decorative plants. Artificial plants as aquarium decorations are ideal if you have a fish-only aquarium.
Placing gravel into your fish tank should be done with care. As much as possible, you should aim for a depth of anywhere between 2 inches to 3 inches. If you go any deeper, this may increase the chances of your fish tank developing hydrogen sulfite, or the so-called rotten egg smell, because of trapped food.
Make sure that you go for finer gravel varieties if you have bottom feeders. It is easy for fish food to settle to the glass bottom if you use bigger gravel rocks. For tanks with bottom dwellers such as crustaceans, aquarium gravel may also be used.
Sean Kerring is an aquarium enthusiast and breeder who has been wirking with and raising fish for more than twenty years, when his parents gave him his very first fish tanks. He always tries to use new and unique aquarium lights to change the themes of each of his tanks, including different aquarium substrate materials.