Figuring out the suitable substrate quantity for a 20-gallon aquarium includes contemplating elements reminiscent of the specified depth, the kind of fish being housed, and the general aquascape. A typical suggestion is a depth of 1-2 inches, which generally interprets to 15-20 kilos of gravel for the standard 20-gallon tank. Nonetheless, aquariums with bigger or extra lively fish would possibly profit from a thicker layer. For instance, cichlids typically respect a deeper substrate for digging and foraging.
Ample substrate depth offers a number of advantages. It presents a pure habitat for burrowing fish and invertebrates, creates area for helpful micro organism essential for organic filtration, and permits for the planting of aquatic vegetation. Traditionally, aquarium gravel served primarily as an aesthetic factor. Nonetheless, its function has expanded to embody important organic and ecological capabilities inside a balanced aquarium ecosystem.