Substrate Finder
What substrate should I use?
The right substrate depends on what you're keeping and whether a planted tank is your goal. Answer a few questions and we'll match you to a substrate, or browse the table below.
| Result | Best for |
|---|---|
| Sand | For bottom-dwelling fish and a natural look |
| Gravel | For a classic look and the most widely available, versatile substrate |
| Aquasoil | For serious planted tanks |
How this quiz works
The Substrate Finder asks what you are keeping and how your budget factors in. It scores the answers and points you to gravel, sand or aquasoil.
Why these questions
Substrate affects fish, plants and upkeep. Sand suits sifting fish such as corydoras, gravel is versatile and widely available, and aquasoil is a nutrient-rich substrate for serious planted tanks that costs more and can change water chemistry when new. Your livestock and your budget decide between them.
What the quiz cannot see
It cannot see your plants, your water or your light. A substrate does not guarantee plant success without enough light, and some substrates change pH or release ammonia when new. Use the Aquarium Substrate Calculator to work out how much to buy.
Before you decide
Rinse gravel and sand before adding them, choose a fish-safe grade, and ask about the product's effect on pH and hardness. If you choose aquasoil, plan your cycling and fish-adding around the early ammonia release. Think about how you will clean the substrate and whether you may want to replace it later.