How Much Gravel

[tdawg57]

I have read different opinions on how much gravel to have at the bottom of the tank. Anywhere from 1/2 -2 inches. Is this a major problem if I have too much? If I do have to much will the waste get stored up down there causing my amonia levels to rise?

 

[mr_br0kn_drmz]

well i just this rule:

1 lbs of gravel per gal of water.

HTH

 

[gadazobe]

It depends on whether you want plants or not. If you have plants then you need up to 2" of gravel to secure the roots. Without plants 1/2" will do. What size is your tank? It's always a good idea to get some bottom feeders as a "clean up crew" for all the food that falls to the bottom.

 

[tdawg57]

It's a 6 gallon eclipse system 6. Though I don't have live plants yet, I would love to get some. I just wouldn't know where to start on taking care of them. Could you point me in the right direction. I would hate to have to trust petco as they have already upset me with the information I recieved from them.

Back to my inital question, I think i'll keep 2 inches in there. Any suggestion on good bottom feeders?

 

[gadazobe]

It's a small tank so I suggest 3 cories. They make an excellent addition to any tank and don't grow big - also they're great little fish full of charachter and on top of everything they do a great cleaning job.

Post a question about what plants in how does your garden grow and I'm sure Rose will help you - she's a marvel with aquatic plants.

 

[tdawg57]

Sounds good to me...thanks

 

[thecichlidaddict]

Keep in mind that the larger the size of the gravel, the deeper debris will sink into it, and the less likely bottom feeders will be able to clean it up. Generally smaller sized gravel is better, IMO.

 

[bartender_in_ny]

i have q 20 gal long and got 25lbs of med size natural pea gravel, cic addict its right, i wish i went a lil smaller in size of gravel but i would always go at least 5lbs more than the 1lb rule per gallon..25 lbs for a 20 gal long is just about percect it gave me almost 3-3.5 " of coverage nessesary to bury the anchor trays for most artifical plants..i even was able to slope it a little back higher to the back actualy coulda used another 5lbs...my next tank il be doing will be a 30 gal long and plan on geting 40lbs, so i can set up one terrace...but i would recommend 5 lbs more after the calculated 1lb per gal rule, you wont be sorry, trust me...it gets spread out fast!!!!! i rinse mine too in a pasta strainer till water runs clear, then just take it over to empty tank and dump it all in then begin to landscape it.....works for me!!!! lol good luck, your gonna get addicted FOR SURE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[Max]

1 lb of gravel per gal. sounds about right... or 2'' from bottom of tank