Aquarium Sand, Substrate & Decor

Products listed under Substrate & Decor, with price, stock and direct links.

Questions before you choose

Sand or gravel for the tank bottom?

Fine sand suits bottom fish that dig, such as corydoras, while gravel is easier to clean and keeps waste from sinking in. If you keep rooted live plants, a dedicated plant substrate beats both of them.

Does volcanic rock change the water?

Volcanic rock is inert by nature and does not raise hardness, which is why it is used so much in aquascaping. What raises hardness and pH are limestone-type rocks, so know what kind of stone you have before you put it in.

Why did natural driftwood tint the water?

Natural wood releases tannins that give the water a tea colour at first. This is normal and harmless, and some fish actually prefer it. Soaking and boiling the wood before use reduces it, and regular water changes clear it gradually.