Substrates and Activators
Aquarium substrates and bottom activators are the foundation of a healthy planted aquarium: strong roots, stable growth and more balanced water. Choose between active soils (nutrients, dropping pH/KH) and inert (sands/gravels) to enrich with tabs, laterite and bottom bacteria.
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Types of substrate:
• Active soils (high CEC): release nutrients, lower KH/pH (stable acidic environment), ideal for planted aquariums and sensitive shrimp. Do not wash before use.
• Inert (sand/quartz/gravel): neutral and decorative, perfect with undemanding plants or for community tanks; they should be enriched with tabs or a fertile layer.
Bottom activators: powdered bacteria, laterite (iron), root tabs (N–P–K + micro) to recharge root zones without clouding the water.
Layering & granulometry: for strong roots use granulometry of 1–3 mm; indicative thickness of 4–7 cm. Possible layering: porous base (lapilli/pumice) → soil → front sand for aesthetics.
Maintenance: lightly siphon the surface (never mix layers), replenish tabs every 4–8 weeks depending on consumption. With active soils, check KH/pH and replenish macro/micro in the water column.
Compatibility: for Caridina, prefer active soil with GH+ integration; for Neocaridina/community, inert + tabs also work; with CO₂ you get denser growth and fewer algae.
Tip: if you start with inert, place root tabs under plants with strong root systems (Echinodorus, Cryptocoryne) and renew in zones: fertile substrate tailor-made without disturbing the setup.
— Advice from the Hobby Pesca & Acquari Team
