Gravel in a Discus Tank

Gravel is available in a vast variety of colors, shapes, and designs. It provides both aesthetic and functional benefits to your aquarium. These benefits include:

• Decoration – Gravel makes your tank more aesthetically pleasing.

• Filter media – When using an undergravel filter, the gravel is the surface area where bacteria attach.

• Base for plants – Gravel acts as the dirt and foundation for the plant roots.

When choosing your gravel’s color, be aware that a fish’s colors are highlighted well by dark gravel. You may want to avoid light gravel. Since fish adjust their colors to match their surroundings, light gravel can wash out a fish’s true colors.

You’ll want to make sure your gravel inert. Not all gravel is inert. For example, coral, seashells, dolomite, and limestone will leach carbonates into the tank, raising its pH level. To test whether your gravel is inert, drip an acid-like vinegar onto the gravel. If it foams or bubbles, the gravel will leach carbonates into your water. You can also fill a bucket of gravel with water and measure the pH several times over a period of a week. If the pH level remains stable, you should be able to use it in your tank.

You’ll also want to make sure your gravel is clean. Wash your gravel thoroughly before you use it. To wash the gravel, put it in a bucket, fill it with water, and move the gravel around. Drain the water and repeat the procedure until the water remains clear after contacting the gravel. Additionally, if you did not get your gravel from a fish store, you should boil it for 15 minutes to kill unwanted bacteria.

Aquarium with Gravel

Gold Panda Discus in Aquarium with Gravel

Gravel can also be used as a substrate for plant growth

QUESTIONS

• What are some practical uses of gravel?
• Why is it important that your gravel is inert?
• How can you make sure your gravel is inert?