You cannot treat aquarium soil as a simple bottom covering. Its tasks are more varied: it creates a natural natural landscape, and also helps to form the biological balance in the aquarium. It is advisable to take a closer look at its selection.
It is necessary
- - an aquarium;
- - soil;
- - plants;
- - fish and shrimps.
Instructions
Step 1
Aquarium soils are divided into three groups. They can be natural, artificial, or nutritious. The components of natural soil are pebbles, sand, and other substrate options found in nature. Artificial soil, which is far from the best choice, consists of processed colored glass and pieces of plastic. Nutrient substrate is a substrate that has been specially prepared and saturated with substances that improve the growth of aquarium plants. Use it as a substrate, and lay a layer of natural soil on top.
Step 2
Select the size of the soil. It differs by faction. Too small will poorly pass water, as well as gases that are dissolved in it. In such soil, the roots can rot or develop very poorly, as a result, the plant stops growing or dies. Too coarse soil will let in various dirt and organic matter, and this leads to a deterioration in the quality of the water in the aquarium. Therefore, choose medium in size. At the same time, take into account what kind of population will be in the aquarium, and be guided by this when selecting a faction.
Step 3
Decide on the color of the soil. Wet it and check how it looks - more often than not, wet soil is much brighter than dry. The colors can be completely different, and since they do not carry a functional load, you can choose what you like. In terms of color, the soil at the bottom of the aquarium should first of all meet the aesthetic preferences of the owners. Keep in mind that shrimp and fish will look much brighter against the background of darker soil. When choosing, imagine what kind of lighting will be in the aquarium and how it will affect the color of the soil.
Step 4
The composition of the soil influences the characteristics of the water in the aquarium. This is especially reflected in its bottom layer. Before making a purchase, find out exactly how the soil will affect the water, because some varieties can make it harder than you need, or acidify it. This is neither bad nor good - choose the substrate based on what kind of water is used in the aquarium and how it is tolerated by fish and other inhabitants of the aquarium. Taking into account their preferences and make a choice.
