My Substrate Choice For New 240L Aquarium, And Bottom Feeder Question.

[Wansui]

I've recently purchased a 240L aquarium, after alot of though I've settled with small (1-3 mm) gravel. I've chosen this because I want the tank to be heavily planted with plants that are mainly root feeders. I didn't go with sand because of how difficult it is to keep the rooted plants in the substrate, it smothers the plant roots and it can develope anaerobic pockets which when disturbed will release hydrogen sulfide into the aquarium which is poisonous to the fish. The only downside I can see to my choice is that I'm not sure if I'll be able to have corys. Corys are probably my favorite bottom feeder, but I know they prefer sand. Since the gravel I have Is very small and rounded, do you think it would be acceptable to have corys? If not, What other peaceful bottom feeders would you suggest that do well in small gravel? Thanks for reading.
 
 

 

[EllieJellyEllie]

I would say that substrate and cories is fine, just keep it clean. Its more of a sand, actually. With coarse bits in it.
 
If you have a planted tank the pockets dont form much, as the plant roots sift through the sand. Just an FYI

 

[sawickib]

They would probably be fine, but not the best, other bottom feeders could be, hoplo catfish, i think most species of synodontis for that size tank, a small species of pleco or pair, hmm all i can think of.