Best substrate color and type?

[Nate710]

I am setting up a new 75 gallon tank. I was wondering what everyone’s thoughts are on substrate? What color provides the most natural look? I think I am leaning towards a fine gravel over sand. 

[lefty o]

i myself like river run gravel. whites, tans, browns.

[Tanked]

On 7/22/2022 at 10:11 AM, Nate710 said:

I am setting up a new 75 gallon tank. I was wondering what everyone’s thoughts are on substrate? What color provides the most natural look? I think I am leaning towards a fine gravel over sand. 

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder!  I use generic aquarium gravel, or big box pea gravel, mostly browns and tans, nothing too dark. 

The fish are the stars in my 75. The substrate is all white pea gravel with contrasting hardscape.  On the pro side, gravel is easy to maintain and lighter colors reflect light. On the con side, the lighter colors show algae and debris sooner. All pea gravel is not equal.  Different vendors offer gravel from different sources, so it pays to shop around for color, texture and size.

I have one tank with a pool sand substrate.  Sand is easily disturbed, and debris tends to remain on top longer.  If I could find a source of cheap fine gravel, I would be tempted to try it.

[Hannah Parker]

I love Pisces aquarium gravel. They are smooth, small stones with fantastic color schemes. They are my personal favorite 🙂