Aquarium Substrate

Specialist aquarium substrates give your tank the best possible foundation, especially if you keep live plants or shrimp. Unlike standard gravel, many of these substrates are packed with nutrients that feed plant roots, helping them establish quickly and grow lush and healthy. Top up those nutrients over time with our aquarium plant treatments.

Some substrates also help buffer your water to the soft, slightly acidic conditions that many plants, shrimp and tropical fish prefer, and their porous texture gives beneficial bacteria plenty of space to settle. If you're after a decorative finish or a base for a non-planted tank, browse our aquarium gravel and substrate range. Rinse or prepare your substrate as directed before adding water, and ask our aquatics team if you're not sure which type suits your setup.