Gravel vs. sand preference

[Aurora9]

I'm setting up a new 20-gallon tank and can't decide between gravel or sand. What's your preference and why? I've heard sand looks better but gravel is easier to clean.

[riverbass]

Sand is my go-to for most setups. It's more natural for bottom-dwellers like Corydoras, and detritus sits on top instead of sinking in. Just gotta stir it occasionally to prevent dead spots. I use pool filter sand, cheap and works great.

[flashy]

Sand is my go-to for most setups. It's more natural for bottom-dwellers like Corydoras, and detritus sits on top instead of sinking in. Just gotta stir it occasionally to prevent dead spots. I use pool filter sand, cheap and works great.

Agreed. Sand also helps with plant roots if you're going planted. Gravel can compact and choke them out. Just make sure your filter flow isn't too strong or it'll blow sand around.

[Lunacy]

I'm team gravel. Sand is a pain to vacuum without sucking it up. Gravel lets debris settle between the pieces so it's easier to clean. Plus, it comes in more colors if you're into that.

[furryoak]

Depends on your stock. Sand for delicate fish, gravel for tougher species. I've got a mix in my 55-gallon, sand on one side for the loaches, gravel on the other for the barbs. Works like a charm.

[lumen]

Sand all the way. Gravel's too rough for my Kuhli loaches. They love burrowing in the sand, and it's way easier to see waste buildup. Just gotta be careful with the siphon.

[harvestor]

I use gravel because it's what I had lying around. No issues so far, but my tank's pretty basic. Just a few tetras and some Java fern.

[Aurora9]

Thanks for the input, everyone. Leaning toward sand now, especially since I want Corydoras. Any tips for keeping it clean?

[flashy]

Thanks for the input, everyone. Leaning toward sand now, especially since I want Corydoras. Any tips for keeping it clean?

Get a turkey baster for spot-cleaning. It's perfect for blasting waste off the surface without disturbing the sand too much. Also, Malaysian trumpet snails help stir the substrate.

[riverbass]

Yep, snails are a game-changer. Just don't overfeed or you'll have a snail explosion. A gentle wave of your hand during water changes also helps lift debris off the sand.