Aquarium Gravel & Sand

The base of your tank does more than hold your decor in place. It affects how your plants grow, how your fish look and how easy the tank is to look after. This collection brings together the aquarium gravel, sand and substrates we stock, from natural sands to specialist substrates for planted tanks.

Dark sands and gravels make fish and plants stand out and give a tank a polished, natural finish, while porous planted substrates give roots room to spread and hold nutrients for them. We also stock base layers that sit under your main substrate, helping water and nutrients move through to the roots. Check each listing to see whether a product suits freshwater, coldwater, tropical or marine tanks.

6 Products

Need a hand?

Before you order, work out how much you need by multiplying your tank’s length, width and the depth of substrate you want, or use our substrate calculator to do it for you. Rinse gravel and sand before use unless the pack says otherwise, as even clean products can carry dust that clouds the water. If you’re planning a planted aquascape, take a look at our Aquarium Soil & Substrates collection, and if you’re not sure what suits your tank, pop in or give us a call and we’ll help you choose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Multiply your tank’s length by its width and by the depth of substrate you want, then use our substrate calculator to turn that into the right amount. A depth of a few centimetres suits most tanks, with a little extra at the back if you like a sloped finish.

Usually yes. Rinse it until the water runs mostly clear, unless the pack says it’s pre-washed. Always check the instructions on the listing, as some specialist substrates shouldn’t be over-washed.

It depends on what you keep. Sand is gentle on bottom feeders and burrowing fish, while gravel lets water flow through more easily and is simple to clean. Either works in most community tanks.

Dark substrates are very popular because they make fish colours and green plants stand out. They also give many fish a more natural, secure feel, which can help them look their best.

Yes, many planted tanks use sand or gravel, especially with root tabs or fertiliser for plants that feed through their roots. For plants that need more from the base, a planted substrate or an aquarium soil can be a better choice.

Inert gravel and sand don’t, but some natural products can affect pH or hardness slightly, so check the listing for details. Some marine and coldwater sands are made to help keep pH stable.