The substrate in an aquascape is very important; it is the nutrient base that helps plants grow and thrive. Today, we will explore what aquascaping substrate is and what base substrate is.
Aquascaping substrate: It is a type of soil mixed according to a special ratio and formula developed by the manufacturer. The function of the substrate is to create a base environment in the aquascape for plants to absorb nutrients necessary for their growth and development. Additionally, it serves as a medium for the microbial system to thrive – we will explain what microorganisms are in the next videos.
Returning to the function of the substrate, besides providing nutrients and an environment for the microbial system to develop, the substrate also helps various types of stem plants anchor their roots and grow. Currently, there are many types of substrates available on the market with different shapes and characteristics, ranging from nutrient-rich types to those with less nutrients, from granular types to powdered types. If you are an experienced aquarist, you can choose a suitable substrate for yourself.
For those of you trying aquascaping for the first time, we recommend choosing the Smekong II substrate available on the market because it is very popular and can be found in every aquascaping store nationwide, and secondly, its price is quite affordable, around 40-50 thousand VND per bag. We recommend using this substrate because new hobbyists do not necessarily need to choose expensive types – unless you have the means. New hobbyists often rearrange their tanks, so using expensive substrates can lead to waste!
Another product that you often use to create the substrate for the tank is the base substrate: it is a concentrated nutrient-rich soil that helps the substrate in the tank last longer and also provides many essential nutrients for plants to grow and thrive. The downside of this type is that it can easily cause substrate leakage. And for new hobbyists who like to explore, as mentioned, it is not necessary to use this type because when rearranging the tank, this base substrate can easily be lost, leading to waste.
SO WHAT SHOULD WE DO TO HAVE AN EFFECTIVE SUBSTRATE IN AN AQUASCAPE?
- First, at the bottom of the tank before adding the substrate, you should spread a layer of pumice. Its function will help microorganisms have a place to hide and thrive.
- Next, you should add a layer of microbial culture. This layer will help the microorganisms in the tank develop faster.
- The next step is to add a thin layer of substrate, then evenly spread the base substrate on top. Finally, add all the remaining substrate on top of the base substrate that has been spread.
- On the top layer: Depending on each person, you can sprinkle an additional thin layer of construction sand or sprinkle small-grained substrates on top for aesthetic purposes and to make planting easier, while also helping to prevent the base substrate from leaking up.
Thus, we have completely set up the substrate layer for an aquascape. Depending on your individual conditions, you can omit a few non-essential components.
WISH YOU SUCCESS!
Tag: Aqua Plants Hub, Event Decoration, Event Organization Company
Aqua Plants Hub Editorial
