Rating of the best soils for aquariums in 2024

Such a bright and unusual decorative element, like an aquarium, decorates interiors, bringing aesthetic pleasure from observing the life of its inhabitants. But it is necessary to realize that, despite its decorative purpose, the aquarium is part of the natural world, a copy of a real reservoir, including the natural processes taking place in it. Therefore, every element of the aquarium is so important, in particular the soil.

It is thanks to a well-chosen type of substrate that aquarium plants take root and grow, on the health of which, in turn, the state of underwater inhabitants depends. The quality and composition of the soil affects the fish habitat and also shapes the aquarium's appearance. In addition, the soil plays a biological role, being a repository of beneficial bacteria that purify water from naturally occurring toxic substances. These bacteria are able to neutralize the toxins that appear as a result of the life process of organisms in the reservoir, they are an integral part of the aquarium ecosystem, so it is so important to choose the right substrate.

How do you determine which type of soil is best?

The best soil will be the one that is most suitable for the fish, plants and other living organisms living in the aquarium, so you first need to decide on the inhabitants of the reservoir, and then select the soil mixture that matches their habitat. It is important to remember that the health of the inhabitants of the aquarium will depend on how accurately the soil is selected.

1. Large stones - not suitable for those species of fish that like to dig the bottom or dig into it, and the gaps between the stones can accumulate food residues. This excess, settling between the stones, will eventually rot and poison the water.
2. Fine sand - can only be used for decoration, as it has the ability to cake and sour.
3. Bright soil - usually of unknown origin, has a strong smell of chemicals. It looks beautiful, but in fact it can become a poison for living organisms.
4. Glass balls - give a spectacular look, but are absolutely not suitable for colonization by bacteria, since they have a non-porous, dense, smooth surface. The same goes for sea pebbles and plastic.
5. Coral sand and marble chips are chemically active materials, and can also contain lime and its components, which is undesirable for most fish.

It is also worth considering such types of soil as black, as well as various types of aquarium sand:

Black soil - is more decorative, gives the aquarium an unusual look, emphasizing the natural beauty and brightness of its inhabitants. The most demanded and popular types of black soil are:

1. Basalt - this type of soil forms a strong magnetic field, due to which hydrophyte plants actively grow. Basalt soil is suitable not only for a regular aquarium, but also for a shrimp.
2. Dark quartz - has a high value, being a semi-precious stone. At the same time, it has properties useful for aquatic flora and fauna.
3. Shungite is a natural stone that perfectly copes with water purification.

• naturalness and environmental friendliness;
• unusual, spectacular appearance;
• water filtration.

• gives the water a grayish tint;
• shungite particles have sharp edges;
• the risk of acquiring a fake.

Aquarium sand there are several types:

1. River - requires careful sieving before use;
2. Marine - contains a lot of useful microorganisms;
3. White aragonite - is a particle of coral and shellfish fragments;
4. Black sand - made from magnetite, hematite, ilmenite;
5. Quartz sand is an inexpensive option, suitable for all types of fish, and has streamlined particle edges.

• natural, does not contain toxic substances
• safe for fish with thin scales;
• quartz sand cleans water well.

• aragonite increases water hardness;
• quartz sand requires additional use of a nutrient substrate.

It should be noted that even natural soils can contain a certain amount of chemical active substances, so it is necessary to check its safety. This is done using 70% acetic acid - a chemical reaction that occurs when interacting with it (hissing, gas bubbles) will reveal the presence of unwanted substances.

The soil must be bought in good pet stores, it must be well packed in a tight bag, on which the name of the manufacturer must be indicated (it is advisable to give preference to well-known companies), which will be the environmental friendliness of the composition.

Rating of the best soils and soil mixtures for aquariums

The best neutral aquarium soils

Chemically neutral is a soil of natural origin, which contains no nutrients. These are gravel, pebbles, small stones, volcanic sand. Neutral soil does not contribute to the rapid growth of plants: until the necessary amount of nutrients formed in the process of decomposition of waste products of organisms (siltation) accumulates in the soil. This takes about six months.

In addition to neutral, natural soil that has been treated, for example, expanded clay or specially processed clay, is suitable for a standard aquarium.

In both cases, for better plant growth, you must additionally purchase fertilizers.

Sand and gravel

This soil option is the most budgetary and simplest. At the same time, it is the most popular and optimal mixture, suitable for most types of plants and fish, as well as unpretentious inhabitants of the aquarium. Sand combined with gravel is the best substrate for beneficial bacteria. The size of the particles in the mixture is approximately the same (gravel - 5 mm, sand - 2 mm), which contributes to less caking of the soil. As for gravel, it is better to choose rolled stones - they will not injure the fish, unlike sharp particles.

This type of soil fulfills its biological function well, however, the nutrients necessary for the vigorous growth of plants appear in it as it becomes silted, which usually occurs within several months. The average cost of the mixture (for 1 bag weighing 6 kg) is 300 rubles.

• provides excellent water circulation in the aquarium;
• copes well with the performance of its biological function;
• neutral, and does not affect the chemical composition of water;
• simple and comfortable cleaning and cleaning of the aquarium;
• natural and natural appearance;
• inexpensive.

• the absence of nutrients in the soil makes it necessary to purchase additional fertilizers for plant growth;
• does not apply to fish that burrow into the ground, such as freshwater rays.

JBL Manado Treated Natural Soil

The baked clay soil not only gives the aquarium a natural look, but also ensures safety for bottom inhabitants thanks to its streamlined surface, which prevents fish injury. This is the most neutral and natural type of soil. Its porous structure is ideal for the formation and reproduction of beneficial bacteria that promote plant growth and health. In addition, fired clay - expanded clay - is a natural absorbent, which means it acts as a natural filter for water, clearing it of excess waste, excess fertilizers. Thanks to this, the emergence and reproduction of algae is prevented. In addition, expanded clay does not cake. The average cost for 1 package weighing 5 kg is 850 rubles.

• has a natural, natural appearance;
• performs well a biological function;
• streamlined shape is safe for fish;
• provides excellent water circulation;
• chemical neutral;
• porous structure;
• natural adsorbent that destroys excess organic matter;
• allows you to conveniently clean your aquarium.

• lack of nutrients in the soil that contribute to the rapid growth of plants;
• is too light and therefore not suitable for large, long-stemmed plants that require deep planting.

UDeco Natural White Gravel

This is a natural Russian-made soil designed specifically for decorating an aquarium. It does not contain dyes and other harmful materials in the composition, is of natural origin, and its white color retains its purity and does not darken over time. The particles of such soil are smooth, rounded, without sharp corners, their size is 3-5 mm. Such indicators are suitable for most types of fish, as well as unpretentious plants that easily take root in gravel. This soil is especially good for cichlids, slightly increasing the hardness of the water, which is a plus for these African lake fish. But soft-water fish, on the contrary, will not appreciate such an impact on their habitat. Another feature of white gravel is its low silting capacity. Average price for 1 package weighing 3.2 kg - from 123 rubles.

• absolutely safe for bottom dwellers;
• snow-white color, persistent, does not darken over time;
• river gravel - natural and natural, without dyes and foreign substances.

• slightly increases the hardness of the water.

Barbus "Mix" soil

Designed for freshwater aquariums, it is a natural stone (marble) crumb. Produced by the Russian manufacturer "Barbus" and is varied in color and fractions - there is white soil, black and colored. The particle size is also variable - from 2-5 mm to 5-10 mm, which makes it suitable for aquariums of different sizes.

The stones are smooth and have no sharp edges. The soil does not affect the pH of the water, but slightly increases its hardness. The substrate is excellent for rooting aquatic plants, and also has a pleasant appearance and is able not only to fulfill its biological function, but also to decorate the aquarium. The average price for 1 bag weighing about 1 kg is 65 rubles.

• good value for money;
• availability;
• spectacular appearance;
• natural, natural material.

• not suitable for soft-water fish, as it increases water hardness;
• pebble coloring fades over time.

The best soils for an aquarium with an abundance of plants

This includes a variety of nutrient mixtures, substrates designed for good rooting and growth of aquatic plants without the use of additional fertilizers. Soils of this type are suitable for any kind of aquarium plants, the mixtures can be used not only for the formation of a new aquarium, but also for improving the composition of the soil of an existing reservoir.

This substrate, due to the large amount of nutrients it contains, promotes the active growth of flora, ensuring the health of plants and their good rooting. In addition, the soil has good water permeability and guarantees excellent water circulation.

Nutritional mixtures Power Sand Special M (ADA)

Mixtures of this type contain various mineral fertilizers, peat, nutrients and bacteria, porous material. This mixture is great for aquatic plants, as well as for creating a nano or Dutch aquarium. In addition, Nutrient mixtures Power Sand Special M (ADA) are used in shrimp farms, being a good feed base for shrimps. Perfectly cleans water from toxins and harmful substances, for a long time has a long-term stimulating effect on the growth of aquarium plants. The average cost for 1 package weighing 6 kg is 4,000 rubles.

• provides the necessary conditions for the reproduction of beneficial microorganisms;
• has a long-term stimulation of the growth and development of underwater flora;
• guarantees good water circulation in the aquarium;
• ideal as shrimp soil.

• heavy;
• decomposes over time, forms dust that is difficult to remove;
• high cost in comparison with similar mixtures.

Substrate Deponit Mix (Dennerle)

An excellent nutrient mixture for stimulating the growth of aquarium plants: it contains active organic and mineral substances. This mixture is not used as an independent primer, but only as a substrate, in addition to a neutral primer. The substrate also contains granular, fast-dissolving fertilizers with a long-lasting effect, porous elements and a lot of beneficial microorganisms. It is the most active nutrient mixture available. The kit for the package with the substrate includes an instruction in which the methods of using the mixture are described in detail, the recommended doses and the procedure for use are indicated. In some cases, a thermal cable is additionally used to ensure better water circulation. The price of the substrate Deponit Mix is ​​1 560 rubles. (for 1 package weighing 4.8 kg).

• provides biological activity of organic substances, beneficial bacteria and microorganisms;
• for a long time has a stimulating effect on the growth of benthic plants;
• prevents the appearance and reproduction of algae in the tank.

• the ability to use only in a mixture with a neutral type of soil;
• the weight of the particles causes caking of the soil and acidification of its lower layers.

The best soil for aquariums with cichlids, as well as for pseudo-sea

The habitat of cichlid fish is tropical fresh water bodies, and coral chips are ideal as a substrate for these representatives of the underwater world. Cichlids lay eggs on the surface of pebbles or in holes dug in the ground.

Coral chips are also great for creating a pseudo sea (pseudo marine aquarium) ecosystem. This substrate has a porous structure and is often used as a filter filler. White coral chips are usually used to decorate the aquarium. The main advantage of this product is its safety for living organisms - it is environmentally friendly and does not contain substances harmful to fish and plants. Before use, it is enough to rinse coral chips well under running water to remove dust particles.

Coral crumb Udeco Sea Coral

Soil from the Russian manufacturer Udeco, specially designed for the creation of pseudo-sea and other natural aquariums. It is one of the most beautiful soils: it is white, suitable for any type of underwater landscape and serves as a decorative role. As for the biological function, coral chips have increased chemical activity, significantly increases the hardness of the water, so this soil cannot be used for all types of fish. That is why coral chips are used exclusively in cichlids or pseudo-sea aquariums. The particle sizes of Udeco Sea Coral soil are varied, from 11 to 30 mm. The average cost for 1 package weighing 6 kg is 621 rubles.

• environmental friendliness - no harmful substances in the composition;
• natural, beautiful color;
• is produced fully prepared for use, it does not need to be washed before use;
• rolled soil particles, safe for fish;
• has a porous structure.

• prone to contamination, regular cleaning of the top layer is required;
• increases water hardness.

Tips and tricks for choosing quality aquarium soil

There are quite a few basic criteria for choosing the best and most suitable soil for an aquarium. These parameters include many characteristics of not only the substrate itself and its properties, but also the purpose of the aquarium, the type of its inhabitants.

Flora and fauna. When choosing a soil, it is necessary to take into account the nature and habits of the fish living in the tank. Some lead an active lifestyle, often dig in the ground, while others, on the contrary, like to bury themselves in the ground and spend time in it for a long time. Therefore, in the first case, it is better to choose a substrate with large particles, and in the second - with small ones. In this case, the soil must be suitable for the plants in the aquarium.

Sizes of soil particles. The fine-grained substrate is suitable for small fish and plants with weak, thin roots. Medium sized fractions are suitable for fish that like to spend most of their time digging in the ground. Large particles are necessary for large fish, as well as for plants with strong and developed roots.

Particle shape. The only rule here is that the pieces of soil should be round, streamlined and smooth, without chips or sharp edges so that the fish do not get hurt.

Porosity. Natural soil, which has a porous structure, provides good water circulation, and is also a repository for beneficial microorganisms necessary for plant nutrition.

Impact of soil on water. Natural soil can increase the hardness of the water and change the pH level, which is not suitable for all types of fish. Before buying soil, you should know what kind of habitat is needed for aquatic pets.

Nutritional properties. For vigorous growth and health, plants need to receive nutrients from the substrate. Usually, in addition to the soil, it is required to use an additional substrate containing all the minerals necessary for the plants. Artificial flooring especially needs such a substrate.

Ground color. The white substrate adorns the aquarium, but over time it loses its whiteness and darkens. The red and yellow sandy soil contains iron oxide, which can harm fish. No less harmful are dyes, which are washed out of the soil over time and color the water.

Correct application of the primer

In order not to make mistakes when decorating an aquarium, you should adhere to the following recommendations for using the substrate:

To begin with, the soil must be rinsed well under running water in order to wash out the lime and dust. To thoroughly cleanse the soil, you can boil it, but you should refrain from using chemicals or soap.

The soil can then be placed at the bottom of the aquarium, spreading it out in both an even layer and obliquely to create the desired relief. The best layer height is around 7 mm. A thicker layer increases the pressure on the walls of the aquarium, in addition, its water permeability deteriorates.When laying out coarse soil - pebbles, gravel, the layer thickness can reach 15 cm. This type of substrate preserves the relief well.

In addition, the soil can be laid in a slide, including sand. But in order for the sand not to crumble, losing its given shape, it should be strengthened with large flat stones.

A multilevel landscape is created using plexiglass plates. To give them the required shape, it is enough to heat the plate over the fire. Then place it on a finished glass form, and then put it on the ground.

After the soil is poured, decorative elements are placed (driftwood, houses and others), then the aquarium is filled with water and plants are planted. The water level should leave at least three centimeters to the edge of the aquarium.

Before starting fish, you should wait at least two weeks for the full establishment of the microflora of the water, so that the plants have time to take root and take root well in the soil. At the same time, it is worth taking care of additional nutrition of the plants, using special supplements with nutrients. And only when the small ecosystem is fully formed, you can launch the fish in the aquadom.

When choosing a soil, you should always put in the first place its properties, influence on the aquatic environment, as well as biological functions. The best, high-quality filler will benefit the flora and fauna of the reservoir, fill the environment with beneficial microorganisms, and naturally purify the water. If the soil is selected correctly, the little inhabitants of the underwater world will be in the most natural and comfortable conditions for them, please with their health and beauty.