The Best Cheap Aquarium Substrates for Planted Tanks in 2024

If you’re on a budget and looking to set up an aquarium, don’t overlook the importance of choosing the right substrate. A quality substrate can make all the difference in the health and well-being of your fish and plants, but it can be a challenge to find one that fits within your budget. That’s where we come in.

We’ve compiled a list of the best low-cost aquarium substrates that provide the necessary benefits without breaking the bank.

In this article, we’ll discuss the factors to consider when selecting a substrate, such as the specific needs of your tank and inhabitants, your budget, and aesthetic preferences.

The Best Cheap Aquarium Substrates Compared

Substrate is best for	Substrate name
The Best Cheap Aquarium Substrate Overall	Fluval Plant & Shrimp Stratum
The Best Cheap Aquarium Substrate for Live Planted Aquariums	CaribSea Eco-Complete Planted Aquarium Substrate
The Best Cheap Aquarium Substrate for Nitrification	Aqua Natural Galaxy Sand Bio-Substrate
The Best Cheap Aquarium Substrate on a Budget	GloFish Aquarium Gravel
The Best Cheap Aquarium Substrate for Aquascaping	Seachem Flourite Black Clay Gravel

What is an aquarium substrate?

An aquarium substrate refers to the material—typically made of gravel, sand, soil, or crushed coral—that covers the bottom of the tank. Its composition determines its function and effects on the health and integrity of the aquarium and the living creatures within it. The aquarium substrate is also a significant element in aquascaping, or the art of designing beautiful and harmonious underwater landscapes with the use of live plants, rocks, wood, and other natural or natural-looking objects.

No single type of aquarium substrate is considered superior to all. Each type has distinct advantages and disadvantages that affect the overall health, integrity, and appearance of the tank. Therefore, the right choice for you depends on the needs of the aquarium’s inhabitants, as well as your aesthetic preferences and budget. 

Where to Buy Low-Cost Aquarium Substrates

Pet stores and online retailers are the most common places to find aquarium substrates such as gravel, sand, or clay. Buying substrate online can be a convenient option, especially if you can find a good deal or have trouble finding the substrate you need in a local store. However, it’s important to make sure that the substrate is safe for aquarium use and appropriate for the needs of your tank and inhabitants.

If you prefer to buy in person, local pet stores and fish stores are great places to find a variety of substrate options. Buying in-store also allows you to physically examine the substrate and get expert advice from store employees.

When purchasing aquarium substrate, regardless of whether it’s from a local store or online retailer, it’s important to thoroughly wash it before adding it to your tank. This helps remove any dirt, debris, or other contaminants that may be present in the substrate.

After washing the substrate, it’s recommended to let it sit for a few days before adding it to your aquarium. This is to ensure that the water parameters, such as pH and hardness, are not drastically altered due to any residual substances that may still be present in the substrate.

How to choose a cheap aquarium substrate for your planted tank

Finding the right cheap substrate for planted aquariums can be particularly challenging as there are plenty of factors to consider. For instance, you must take into account the type of plants you’re planning to add to your aquascape because those with deeper roots require a stronger and deeper anchoring substrate. Your choice should also be evaluated based on the optimal water chemistry for the tank’s occupants, how much care and maintenance you can afford to give, and the styling you want for your aquarium.

Therefore, experienced aquarists look for a substrate that contains the essential minerals and nutrients, provides adequate support and stability, and contributes to a clean and nurturing environment for the fish and plants. It might sound like you would have to spend a lot of money to obtain an aquarium substrate that ticks off all these boxes, but, fortunately, there are numerous affordable yet quality options in the market nowadays. In this section, we will share our cheap aquarium substrate ideas, tips, and recommendations to guide you in building your dream planted tank.

Choosing your aquarium substrate

Your choice of aquarium substrate has major and long-term effects on the ecosystem inside the tank. From the health and wellness of the aquatic life to the maintenance work you would have to perform for the tank’s upkeep, the substrate truly has a massive impact on your experience and success as an aquarist. Several types exist in the market, so selecting the right one requires a discerning eye for style and a comprehensive understanding of your fish and plants. To help you choose the ideal aquarium substrate, we are going to describe below the various factors that you must consider.

The best types of cheap aquarium substrate

Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the best low-cost aquarium substrates available, along with their pros and cons. Whether you’re setting up a planted tank or a fish-only aquarium, there’s a substrate that’s right for your needs.

1) Sand substrate

Sand substrate is a natural option that some hobbyists consider superior to gravel. It’s aesthetically pleasing and can be easily cleaned with a gravel vacuum since detritus can’t fall into crevices on a flat surface. Some sand marketed as “live sand” has additional benefits, including beneficial bacteria and other microorganisms that help with water quality and reduce the time needed for a new tank to cycle.

Cost of sand substrate

About $1.50 per pound; use 0.5 to 2 pounds per gallon.

Pros of sand substrate

Aesthetically pleasing, easy to clean, suitable for fish species that bury themselves, some types have additional probiotic benefits.

Cons of sand substrate

Tiny particles can become suspended in the water, clouding it and clogging filter media, can harbor pockets of anoxic bacteria or create brown algae outbreaks, the flat surface presents less surface area for nitrifying bacteria.

2) Gravel substrate

Gravel is one of the most popular choices for aquarium substrate. It provides a lot of surface area for the growth of beneficial nitrifying bacteria, which helps filter the water in your tank. Gravel is also an excellent choice for many fish species, particularly those from rocky environments. It also makes a good substrate for bottom feeders, as they can turn over small rocks in search of food.

Cost of Gravel substrate

About $1.25 per pound; use one pound of gravel per gallon of water.

Pros of Gravel substrate

Provides surface area for beneficial bacteria, is suitable for many fish species, is good for bottom feeders, comes in a range of colors, easy to clean.

Cons of Gravel substrate

Must be rinsed thoroughly prior to use to prevent the suspension of dust in the water, may not be suitable for certain fish species, and may display visible detritus if proper maintenance isn’t performed.

3) Clay substrate

Clay substrates are ideal for both planted and fish-only aquariums. Its porous texture affords plenty of surface area for the growth of beneficial bacteria. Red clay is high in iron, which especially benefits plants. Like gravel, clay can be cleaned with a gravel vacuum or under-gravel filter.

Cost of Clay substrate

$2.00 to $3.35 per pound; can be used alone or mixed with other gravels.

Pros of Clay substrate

Porous texture for beneficial bacteria growth, high in iron, suitable for planted and fish-only aquariums, easy to clean.

Cons of Clay substrate

Most expensive option, some clays must be mixed with other substrate types, and water should be added slowly to avoid excessive cloudiness due to particles.

4) Dirt substrate

Dirt is a substrate that some hobbyists use in heavily planted aquariums, mimicking the rich silts and soil deposits of natural rivers. It can be free when acquired from your backyard, but avoid using store-bought potting soils that may contain fertilizers that cause algal blooms and poison fish.

Cost of Dirt substrate

Free from the ground.

Pros of Dirt substrate

Suitable for heavily planted aquariums, mimics natural environment, free.

Cons of Dirt substrate

Dirt can easily discolor the water, and tiny particles of dirt may never “settle out,” not returning to the bottom after being disturbed. Dirt can also clog filter media.

5) Peat Moss Substrate

Peat moss is an inexpensive plant substrate that provides essential nutrients for aquarium plants. 

Cost of Dirt substrate

About $16.00 for 8 quarts. The amount needed varies according to use; some aquarists use peat moss as the complete substrate, while others add just a few cups to adjust pH.

Pros of Dirt substrate

Peat moss is an affordable substrate that can be purchased at most garden centers. It is ideal for aquarium plants and provides them with essential nutrients.

Cons of Dirt substrate

Peat moss is one of the most difficult substrates to clean and can cause the water to turn brown. It is not recommended for tanks with delicate fish as it may lower pH levels too much.

6) Complete Substrates

This type is designed to contain all the minerals and nutrients required for the healthy growth of aquatic plants. Its ingredients may either be organic or inorganic materials that have the capacity to absorb and release the chemicals from the water or fertilizer. Complete substrates are also used to reduce the pH level of the water to optimize it for fish and plants. 

Cost of complete substrate

The cost varies depending on the brand and added enhancements, but on average, a 4.4-pound bag ranges from $15 to $30. 

Pros of complete substrate

Complete substrates promote the health of the plants and stabilize their roots. They also improve the water quality by making it slightly acidic and converting fish waste to plant fertilizer. If you prefer a natural look for your tank, this type has a dark color that looks wonderful against the other elements and creatures in the aquarium.

Cons of complete substrate

Compared to other substrates, this tends to be more expensive. Some types also require careful preparation and maintenance to prevent problems in the chemical composition and appearance of the water later. Complete substrates can also be incompatible with certain types of fish or plants that thrive better in alkaline or hard water. 

7) Multi-Substrate Substrates

Aquarists are not limited to only one substrate type for a given tank. After all, the aquarium’s occupants have varied needs. Using multi-substrate substrates offers added benefits, but they also come with their unique challenges arising from your chosen combination of substrates. Certain styling can only be achieved by mixing and matching substrates, as you may observe in aquariums with layered bottoms or those with slopes, hills, valleys, or islands. 

Cost of multi-substrate

The exact cost depends on your preferred combination of aquarium substrates. You might spend somewhere between $10 to $50 for a small tank.

Pros of multi-substrate

The multi-substrate will help you create a diverse environment for your fish and plants. It also provides more nutrients and minerals and can be more effective in regulating the water’s pH level and hardness. Aquarists who have distinct tastes and styles may also find it easier to express themselves using this substrate type.

Cons of multi-substrate

Beginners might find it difficult to prevent the multiple types of substrates from mixing due to water flow, fish activity, or maintenance work. This can ruin the appearance you want to achieve and deter the intended function of your chosen substrates. Choosing the wrong combination can also have a significant adverse effect on the fish, plants, and water quality. 

The best cheap substrates for planted aquariums reviewed

Not all substrates are created equal, and some of the good ones can be quite expensive. You don’t have to spend a fortune on your aquarium, though. As a guide for our fellow aquarists in need of a reliable yet budget-friendly product, we will review in this section the top-rated cheap aquarium substrates for plants and aquatic creatures. You will learn about what makes them highly recommended and which of these options will best fulfill your expectations. 

1) The Best Cheap Aquarium Substrate Overall – Fluval Plant & Shrimp Stratum

If you are looking for an affordable substrate that cultivates healthy growth without sacrificing quality, consider grabbing a pack of the Fluval Plant & Shrimp Stratum. Sourced from Mount Aso, the largest active volcano in Japan, this product has an abundance of nutrients that are essential for the wellness of the tank’s inhabitants. We also highly recommend it for those who want a freshwater planted aquarium because this substrate can help you achieve and maintain the ideal water quality.

The Fluval Plant & Shrimp Stratum is an excellent choice for beginners, too. You won’t have to rinse it or undergo extensive preparation before using it for your aquarium. The manufacturer suggests using a 4.4-pound bag for a 5-gallon tank, which should be spacious enough for a few tropical fish or shrimp. However, if you have a bigger unit, the product also comes in bigger and more economical bags of 8.8 lbs or 17.6 lbs. 

Why the Fluval Plant & Shrimp Stratum stands out

• The brand infused this cheap aquarium substrate with micro-nutrients and macro-nutrients for the optimal growth of freshwater plants.
• Its natural dark brown color enhances the aesthetics and vibrancy of the aquarium.
• The light and porous structure of the soil allows the roots of the aquatic plants to take hold and develop quickly. 
• This substate can serve as a safe habitat and hiding place for newborn shrimp in the aquarium.
• It does not cause cloudiness or discoloration of the water.

Fluval Plant & Shrimp Stratum Specifications

Product Dimensions:	3 in x 5 in x 11 in
Weight:	4.4 lbs
Color:	Dark brown
Substrate Type:	Volcanic soil
Product Features:	Porous soil particles, natural-looking appearance, pH level reducing ability, high macro-nutrient and micro-nutrient content

Pros of the Fluval Plant & Shrimp Stratum

• This cheap aquarium substrate does not skimp on the nutrients and soil quality.
• It is ready to use for your freshwater aquarium.
• You won’t have to worry too much about caring for your aquatic plants.
• It cultivates the propagation of beneficial bacteria.
• This soil substrate will not clog the filter.

Cons of the Fluval Plant & Shrimp Stratum

• It is slightly more expensive than other brands of cheap planted aquarium substrate in the market.
• The soil may be crushed if you use mechanical force to arrange your plants.

Concluding thoughts

The Fluval Plant & Shrimp Stratum is the best in our list of cheap aquarium substrate ideas. It is nutrient-dense yet lightly structured—a combination that is perfect for many aquatic plants and baby shrimp. This substrate’s dark color makes it a good choice for those who want a natural-looking tank filled with clear, non-acidic water. You may have to pay a bit more to obtain these benefits, but rest assured that purchasing this product still won’t break the bank.

Buy the Pros of the Fluval Plant & Shrimp Stratum Now!

2) The Best Cheap Aquarium Substrate for Live Planted Aquariums – CaribSea Eco-Complete Planted Aquarium Substrate

Your aquatic plants will thank you if you choose this complete substrate from CaribSea. It has a coarse texture that contains more than 25 minerals, such as calcium, iron, magnesium, and sulfur for the lush propagation of plants inside the tank. Derived from basaltic volcanic soil, each grain also has high porosity, so expect a smooth-flowing release and exchange of chemicals.

The CaribSea eco-complete planted aquarium substrate uses an improved Eco-Complete formula for this cheap aquarium substrate, too. The brand also added live heterotrophic bacteria to transform waste into usable fertilizer for the plants. Since it does not have artificial additives, coating, or coloring, this product won’t cause any harm or discoloration to your aquarium.

Why the CaribSea eco-complete substrate stands out

• The Eco-Complete formula applied to this product hinders the growth of algae. 
• Its rich iron content means that you don’t have to supplement your substrate with laterite.
• The coarse substrate grains provide ample room for plant roots to grow and spread.
• This cheap aquarium substrate does not have an impact on the pH level or water hardness.
• It has a bi-modal structure, wherein the finer grains will naturally be layered on the bottom portion thus preventing clogging of filters.

CaribSea eco-complete substrate specifications

Product Dimensions:	18 in x 12 in x 2 in
Weight:	20 lbs
Color:	Black
Substrate Type:	Volcanic soil
Product Features:	Porous and coarse soil particles, high-nutrient formula, and live bacterial content

Pros of the CaribSea eco-complete substrate

• This product contains several minerals and live bacteria for the plants.
• No rinsing or soaking is required, so preparation tends to be hassle-free.
• Many customers remarked that this substrate is quite easy to spread and arrange inside the aquarium.
• It comes in a large 20-pound bag, which should be more than enough for a medium to large tank. 
• This complete substrate is relatively cheaper than other similar products on the market.

Cons of the CaribSea eco-complete substrate

• Color options are limited.
• It might be too coarse for delicate plants. 

Concluding thoughts

Maintaining a planted aquarium in tiptop shape will be no problem if you choose the CaribSea Eco-Complete Substrate for your tank. It has practically everything the aquatic greeneries will need, and several customers appreciate how it lives up to its promise of helping to balance the water chemistry and being easy to use. We recommend this product for novice aquarists who want to switch from plastic plants to live ones. 

Buy the CaribSea Eco-Complete Planted Aquarium Substrate Today!

3) The Best Cheap Aquarium Substrate for Nitrification – Aqua Natural Galaxy Sand Bio-Substrate

Have you ever encountered problems with ammonia spikes or algae blooms in your tank? That’s a common issue faced by those who pick aquarium substrates that do not contain live nitrifying bacteria. For an effective solution, check out the Aqua Natural Galaxy Sand Bio-Substrate. This product is made of dustless sand infused with active bacteria that will break down and convert ammonia into nitrates. 

Each pack of this cheap planted aquarium substrate can contribute to the health of all the living organisms in your aquatic ecosystem. It is also odorless, tasteless, and will not ruin the water quality. Unlike other substrates, this does not require rinsing as it is ready to use straight from the pack. 

Why the Aqua Natural Galaxy Sand Bio-Substrate stands out

• This sand substrate has been washed three times and kiln-dried to ensure that is clean and safe to use.
• Its composition will allow you to cycle the aquarium right away.
• You can fight off the negative effects of ammonia without breaking a sweat.
• With a similar appearance to black diamond sand, this product can make the colors of the plants and fish pop out more.
• You can safely mix this with a dry substrate for a more interesting and more beneficial aquascape. 

Specifications of the Aqua Natural Galaxy Sand Bio-Substrate

Product Dimensions:	6 in x 4 in x 6 in
Weight:	4.98 lbs
Color:	Black
Substrate Type:	Sand
Product Features:	Natural dark sand particles, live bacterial content, and neutral pH composition

Pros of the Aqua Natural Galaxy Sand Bio-Substrate:

• This natural sand substrate is compatible with most freshwater plants and animals.
• It does not contain harmful chemicals or additives.
• Users noted that it does not affect the taste or smell of fish food and water.
• You won’t have to worry about water cloudiness when it is added to the tank. 
• The brand allows mixing this substrate with other types for aquascaping projects.

Cons of the Aqua Natural Galaxy Sand Bio-Substrate:

• If stored for too long, the sand may clump together over time.
• The sand might be too fine for some plants that require a coarser texture.

Concluding thoughts about the Aqua Natural Galaxy Sand Bio-Substrate:

The Aqua Natural Bio-Substrate can elevate your aquarium with its natural metallic black sand enhanced with active nitrifying bacteria. It is suitable for anyone who requires a quick, affordable, and painless way to cycle their tanks to keep everything in it clean and healthy. If the dark Galaxy Sand variant does not suit your taste, this product also comes in a Sugar White Sand color for a brighter and more spacious look. 

Buy the Aqua Natural Galaxy Sand Bio-Substrate Today!

4) The Best Cheap Aquarium Substrate on a Budget – GloFish Aquarium Gravel

Though this gravel substrate is designed to enhance the already vibrant GloFish, this product can be a good pick for anyone looking for a beautiful yet cheap aquarium substrate. The GloFish Aquarium Grave is both functional and visually appealing. You can choose from a wide range of colors, which you can mix and match to create unique aquascapes. It can also serve as a stable base for your aquatic plants. 

The brand made sure to use only non-toxic materials for this product. It is also relatively easy to use and requires minimal care to maintain. Many users also vouch that this cheap planted aquarium substrate does not alter the water chemistry, and if pre-rinsed properly, it will not cause cloudiness of the water, either. 

Why the GloFish Aquarium Gravel stands out

• The fluorescent gravel creates stunning visual effects when used together with the GloFish blue LED lights, which are sold separately. 
• It comes in various colors and sizes to suit your style and preferences.
• The gravel substrate serves as home to beneficial bacteria.
• This product is compatible with most types of aquarium filters.
• Cleaning and maintaining it requires only periodic vacuuming. 

Specifications of the GloFish Aquarium Gravel

Product Dimensions:	4 in x 5 in x 9 in
Weight:	5 lbs
Color:	Solid black, black with fluorescent highlights, black with white fluorescent, green fluorescent, pink fluorescent, pink/green/blue fluorescent, white frost
Substrate Type:	Gravel
Product Features:	Even-sized gravel, diverse color selection, durable structure, neutral-pH composition

Pros of the GloFish Aquarium Gravel

• The GloFish Aquarium Gravel is more affordable than the other types of substrates.
• A bag of this gravel substrate can be used for a 10-gallon fish tank. 
• It allows you to showcase your personality and style for a fraction of the cost.
• You can combine or layer the different colors of this gravel substrate. 
• This product can last for a long time without losing its form or color due to the high-quality materials used by the brand.

Cons of the GloFish Aquarium Gravel

• You will have to do repeated rinsing with plain water to get rid of dirt and debris before using it in your aquarium.
• This gravel substrate does not provide nutrients or minerals for plants on its own. 

Concluding thoughts about the GloFish Aquarium Gravel

The GloFish Aquarium Gravel is perfect for artistic aquarists who are on a budget. This product will allow you to craft a fun and unique environment for your fish. Note that you will have to layer fertilizer beneath it to nourish your plants, and the fluorescent variants don’t look realistic. But, if neither of those will be an issue for you, this economical substrate is the perfect choice for you. 

Buy the GloFish Aquarium Gravel Today!

5) The Best Cheap Aquarium Substrate for Aquascaping – Seachem Flourite Black Clay Gravel

Aquascaping can become quite a costly endeavor because of all the elements involved. Fortunately, by choosing the Seachem Fluorite Black Clay Gravel, you can better manage your budget and achieve your desired result. This dark-colored cheap planted aquarium substrate is made of fracted clay gravel that offers a stable base and high porosity for the growth of your plants. It also serves well in preventing the accumulation of waste materials on the bed of your tank.

We like how this Seachem substrate can be used alone or layered together with other types of gravel for a more interesting aquascape. Because of its structure and composition, it may be used for any freshwater setting without fear of negatively altering the water’s pH level. It’s also great how you can keep using it for extended periods without needing to replace it entirely.

Why the Seachem Flourite Black Clay Gravel stands out

• This substrate offers high porosity for the effective absorption and release of nutrients for aquatic plants. 
• It is great value for money because one bag can cover a 40-liter fish tank. 
• The dark color of the clay gravel looks striking against the pops of color in your aquascape.
• You won’t have to add laterite or other modifiers to make it functional.
• It works with most types of filters including an under-gravel aquarium filter.

Specifications of the Seachem Flourite Black Clay Gravel

Product Dimensions:	17 in x 11.75 in x 1.75 in
Weight:	15.43 lbs
Color:	Flourite black
Substrate Type:	Gravel
Product Features:	Porous clay gravel particles, durable structure, naturally dark color, and neutral-pH composition

Pros of the Seachem Flourite Black Clay Gravel:

• The Seachem Flourite Black Clay Gravel makes it easier for you to take care of and maintain the plants in the fish tank.
• It helps in keeping the water clean and free from harmful waste materials.
• The black gravel creates a realistic and solid base for your plants.
• You can gain the benefits of live bacteria by using this substrate.
• This product is an affordable material, especially for those who are still learning the art of aquascaping.

Cons of the Seachem Flourite Black Clay Gravel:

• Some water cloudiness may be observed when you first place it in the tank.
• A gravel substrate like this is not recommended for those who want to raise fish species with delicate fins because of the potentially sharp edges.

Concluding thoughts about the Seachem Flourite Black Clay Gravel:

Aquascapers will likely find the Seachem Flourite Black Clay Gravel a valuable addition to their arsenal of attractive and functional elements of fish tanks. Since a pack of this product won’t break the bank, you can use it to create slopes, valleys, and other interesting formations in your aquarium. And with its dark color and porous structure, you can rest assured that your creation will both be visually appealing and suitable for your pets and plants.  

Buy Seachem Flourite Black Clay Gravel Today!

Importance of Choosing the Right Aquarium Substrate: Even on a Budget

Choosing the right aquarium substrate is crucial for creating a healthy and thriving ecosystem in your aquarium. A high-quality substrate provides the necessary support for your fish and plants, and can also promote the growth of beneficial bacteria.

The substrate you choose also affects the overall aesthetic of your aquarium – perhaps more so than any other choice besides the size and shape of the tank itself. By taking the time to consider the specific needs of your tank and inhabitants, you can find a substrate that fits your budget while still providing the necessary benefits.

Cheap Aquarium Substrates Buyers Guide: What To Look For

When choosing a low-cost aquarium substrate, it’s important to consider several factors:

Type of Tank

The type of tank you are setting up will determine the type of substrate you need. Consider whether your tank will mostly house fish or plants. Some affordable substrates are especially useful for planted aquariums. Also, what type of filtration will you be using? Popular under-gravel filters are only compatible with certain types of substrate.

Specific Needs of Fish

Some fish require certain minerals or compounds in their substrate to maintain a desired pH level. Additionally, certain fish interact with substrates in various ways, so having the right substrate is essential to their health.

Budget

When furnishing a large aquarium, the cost can quickly add up. Still, it’s important to choose a quality substrate rather than a cheap, low-quality option not intended for aquarium use, which can lead to long-term problems.

Neutral pH

The water pH level is critical for the health and growth of your plants and fish. Water that is too acidic or too alkaline will be too distressful for these creatures. Unwanted algae will also become out of hand, thus preventing your pets from receiving enough nutrients and light. Over time and with constant exposure, this condition may lead to disease or death. 

That is why neutral pH must be always maintained. To achieve this, you must consider how a particular aquarium substrate can affect the pH level. Many brands highlight how their substrates can help achieve a thriving and balanced tank, so be sure to look for this product feature before purchasing a bag.

Nutrients and Minerals

A cheap aquarium substrate does not mean that is devoid of the essential nutrients and minerals for your plants. Instead, many brands take pride in their respective formulas that aim to provide all the necessary elements for the ecosystem to grow and stay healthy. Without these, expect poor coloration, stunted growth, or even death eventually. 

The nutrients and minerals are categorized into two: macronutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, or calcium, and micronutrients like zinc, copper, or manganese. Read the labels and nutritional information of the substrates carefully. Some do not have enough of these elements while others have them in the wrong ratio. Remember, balance is key for keeping the water quality and health of the aquarium to optimal levels. 

Amount Needed in Tank

How much substrate is needed for an aquarium varies according to different factors. The safest way is to heed the recommendations of the manufacturer. However, it is still important to consider the actual conditions in your tank, the appearance you want to achieve, and your budget for this project.

Let’s say you want to put granite in the fish tank. You must check first the size and weight of the granite pieces and the capacity and strength of the tank. There are online calculators available nowadays where you can input these figures and obtain a recommended amount. As a rule of thumb, however, a gallon of water can safely accommodate around 10 pounds of granite.

Aesthetic Appeal and Substrate Coloring

Consider how you want your aquarium to look. Do you want to create a lifelike ecosystem or match the substrate to your home decor? Substrate comes in many colors and textures.

Common gravel substrate color choice – Generic Blue Gravel

For purely aesthetic reasons, blue aquarium gravel is my top pick for a low-cost substrate. Water is often associated with the color blue, as it absorbs the red portions of the visible light spectrum while reflecting blue and green light for us to see. Therefore, blue aquarium gravel, often a mix of shades, fulfills this expectation of blue water and adds a bit of whimsy to the tank design, even in an otherwise naturalistic environment.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, blue gravel is a practical choice for aquarium enthusiasts. It is a dark enough color that adaptive species, such as shrimp, will maintain their rich colors rather than lightening their shades to blend in with the environment. The surface area of gravel facilitates plenty of nitrifying bacterial growth and it is relatively easy to clean with a gravel vacuum. Even my Labradensis cichlids love to “redecorate” by slurping up a mouthful of gravel and spitting it out elsewhere in the tank.

Blue gravel is also affordable, typically priced at $5.99 for a 5-pound bag, and easy to find at pet stores, department stores, or online retailers. If you wish to use this gravel in a heavily planted tank, you can secure the plants in aquarium pots filled with peat moss and then bury these pots beneath the gravel. Overall, blue gravel is a great choice for aquarium enthusiasts looking for a low-cost substrate that offers both practicality and aesthetics.

Let fish and plants thrive by using the best cheap aquarium substrate for your tank

Figuring out the optimal substrate to use can be challenging, even without having to consider your budget. There are so many factors to consider, and the price tag is not always a good indicator of what is good or bad. The good thing is that you have taken a step in the right direction by reading through our guide on picking a beautiful and functional yet cheap planted aquarium substrate. 

As you have learned, you can narrow down your search by examining your options and analyzing how compatible the substrates are with your tank, fish, and aesthetic preferences. From there, you should assess if your pick can help you keep the water neutral and the plants well nourished. When you’ve got a shortlist, determine how much substrate you will need for the aquascape and balance it out with your budget. We hope that our detailed guide will help you through this process and achieve the fish tank of your dreams.

FAQs about the best cheap aquarium substrate