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 standard suggestion is a depth of 1-2 inches, which usually interprets to 15-20 kilos of gravel for the standard 20-gallon tank. Nonetheless, aquariums with bigger or extra energetic fish may profit from a thicker layer. For instance, cichlids typically admire a deeper substrate for digging and foraging.
Enough substrate depth gives a number of advantages. It presents a pure habitat for burrowing fish and invertebrates, creates house for useful micro organism essential for organic filtration, and permits for the planting of aquatic vegetation. Traditionally, aquarium gravel served primarily as an aesthetic aspect. Nonetheless, its position has expanded to embody important organic and ecological capabilities inside a balanced aquarium ecosystem.