Can I use this <1/4 inch gravel in aquariums?

[HelplessNewbie]

Can I use this <1/4 inch gravel in aquariums? It came from a landscape supply store. I rinsed it numerous times.

I was going to mix it in with some coarse sand, in a future tank.

Oops, I meant to post in General subforum.

[Seattle_Aquarist]

Hi @HelplessNewbie

If going with a gravel I recommend Cemex Lapus Lustre Monterey Sand which is size #2/12 sand / small gravel. Peagravel is size #8 and substantially larger.

[nabokovfan87]

On 7/11/2023 at 6:34 PM, Seattle_Aquarist said:

Lapus Lustre Monterey Sand

It's no longer available due to a lawsuit about environmental damage.  Just a heads up.
 

On 7/11/2023 at 5:54 PM, HelplessNewbie said:

I was going to mix it in with some coarse sand, in a future tank.

This stuff looks really similar to detail aquascaping stone.  As long as you don't have fish trying to eat off the bottom and hurting themselves constantly, there shouldn't be any issue using this at all.

Edited July 12, 2023 by nabokovfan87
Added link

[Seattle_Aquarist]

Hi All,

The reason I like smaller grain sizes like the #2/12 that Cemex Lapis Lustre is there is less likelyhood that food will drop down between the grains of substrate, start rotting, and cause health issues for my fish.  The #2/12 size allows for good root growth.  -Roy

Edited July 12, 2023 by Seattle_Aquarist

[HelplessNewbie]

@Seattle_Aquarist, oh yes, that is the specific sand we have. Was thinking of mixing in the small gravel for variety. The small gravel will comprise 10% of the substrate.

[HelplessNewbie]

On 7/11/2023 at 10:28 PM, nabokovfan87 said:

This stuff looks really similar to detail aquascaping stone.  As long as you don't have fish trying to eat off the bottom and hurting themselves constantly, there shouldn't be any issue using this at all.

Ah, yes, I don't think this will be the case. If I understand correctly, the gravel will eventually sink under the sand at some point.

[madmark285]

On 7/11/2023 at 10:28 PM, nabokovfan87 said:

It's no longer available due to a lawsuit about environmental damage.  Just a heads up.

There is a global shortage of construction grade sand ie: sand which has not been exposed to erosion. Rounded sand found in a desert or the beach does not work well for concrete and there is plenty of sources for this type of sand. Mining it off a beach seems excessive, I agree with shutting this down.