Aquarium Substrate & Fish Tank Soil

Different substrates suit different setups, so think about what you're keeping before you buy. Fine, rounded gravel or sand is kinder to bottom-dwelling fish like corydoras and loaches who like to sift through it, while nutrient-rich aquatic soil is better suited to heavily planted tanks where roots need something to feed from. As a rough guide, aim for a layer around 5-8cm deep to give plant roots room to establish and to allow bacteria colonies to build up properly. If you're unsure how much substrate to order for your setup, our fish tank volume calculator makes it easy to work out the right quantity before you check out, so you avoid ordering short or paying for more than you need.