Aquarists pay special attention to the temperature of the liquid, the brightness of the lighting , the amount of fertilizer, filtration and saturation of the tank with oxygen. But the composition of the substrate, which is filled up by fans in the aquarium, also has a tremendous impact on the lives of its inhabitants. From him depends the possibility of rapid rooting of plants, the strength of their growth, the development of the entire biological system.
Main types of aquarium soils
There are two types of soils - bare ground and nutrient soil. In the bare ground of plant-feeding substances there are almost no substances, it consists of sand, basalt, quartzite of various fractions (0.8 - 5 mm). To your underwater forest from somewhere to absorb the vital juices, under the main layer should be covered from below with a special substrate with a rich composition, which ensures a normal growth of the flora. Special nutrient soils are a good alternative to bare soils, where all necessary components are available in the required amount.
Do you need nutrient in the aquarium?
You can create nutrients yourself, but you need to have some knowledge, otherwise you can cause an overdose with nitrates or other elements, which will lead to the death of the population of your underwater kingdom. Another thing ready-made nutrient soils for aquarium plants, which are universal, especially for plant aquariums or for various species of fish. For example, the Aquael Aqua Grunt composition is more suitable for thickets, and the aquatic nutrient soil Fluval Shrimp and Plant Stratum is specifically designed for normal life of microorganisms that consume shrimp.
Completely finished compounds do not require additives, substrates, special treatment before filling in the reservoir. When buying such nutrient soils for your aquarium plants should read the instructions. Here, the characteristics of the substrates are always indicated, information on their effect on the stiffness and other parameters of the fluid can be obtained. Producers are sure to tell how much their products are safe for bottom fish, crabs, snails or other aquatic creatures. Even non-professionals are able to quickly understand this material, choose the soil with the most optimal composition and prepare it for use.