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Substrate Calculator

Aquascaperoom's Substrate Calculator

Aquascaperoom's Substrate Calculator Image Substrate Calculator


Aquascaperoom's Substrate Calculator

Using the Substrate Calculator

How to Determine the Amount of Soil Needed for Your Aquarium

To utilize the substrate calculator effectively, begin by measuring the length, width, and desired depth of your aquarium in inches. Input these measurements into the corresponding fields provided in the calculator interface. Once you've entered the values, click the "Calculate" button. The calculator will process the information and provide an estimate of the volume of substrate required, measured in liters. This estimate enables you to accurately determine the amount of soil necessary for your aquarium setup, ensuring you purchase the appropriate quantity to achieve your desired substrate depth. By adjusting the input values, you can customize the calculation based on the specific dimensions of your aquarium, thereby ensuring precision in estimating substrate quantity.

Choosing the Right Aqua Soil for Your Aquarium

Aquarium substrate plays a vital role in the health and vitality of your aquatic environment. Aqua soil, also known as planted tank substrate or aquarium soil, provides essential nutrients for plant growth, aids in water filtration, and contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal of your aquarium. Selecting the right aqua soil is crucial for creating a thriving aquatic ecosystem. Here's a guide to help you choose the perfect aqua soil for your aquarium:

Factors to Consider When Choosing Aqua Soil:

  1. Nutrient Content: Look for aqua soil that is rich in essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrients are crucial for promoting healthy plant growth and maintaining water quality.
  2. pH and Buffering Capacity: Consider the pH requirements of your aquarium inhabitants and select aqua soil with a buffering capacity that aligns with your desired pH levels. Some aqua soils may lower or raise pH levels, so it's essential to choose one that suits your specific needs.
  3. Granule Size: Aqua soil comes in various granule sizes, ranging from fine to coarse. Choose a granule size that suits the size of your aquarium and the needs of your plants. Fine-grained aqua soil is ideal for carpeting plants, while larger granules are suitable for larger aquariums or plants with extensive root systems.
  4. Water Filtration: Select aqua soil that promotes water filtration and maintains water clarity. Some aqua soils contain porous materials that trap debris and promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, contributing to a healthy aquatic environment.
  5. Aesthetic Appeal: Consider the color and texture of the aqua soil to ensure it complements the overall design of your aquarium. Aqua soils come in various colors, from natural earth tones to vibrant shades, allowing you to create visually stunning aquascapes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Aqua Soil:

Q: How much aqua soil or substrate do I need for my aquarium?
A: The amount of aqua soil needed depends on the size and depth of your aquarium. As a general rule of thumb, aim for a substrate depth of 1-3 inches. Use an aquarium substrate calculator or follow manufacturer recommendations to determine the amount of aqua soil required for your specific setup.

Q: How often should I replace aqua soil in my aquarium?
A: Aqua soil typically lasts for several years before requiring replacement. However, you may need to replenish nutrients over time by adding fertilizer or supplementing with root tabs.

Q: Will aqua soil cloud my aquarium water?
A: Some aqua soils may initially release particles into the water, causing temporary cloudiness. Rinse the aqua soil thoroughly before adding it to your aquarium to minimize clouding. Over time, the cloudiness should dissipate as the substrate settles.

Q: Can I mix different types of aqua soil together?
A: While it's possible to mix different types of aqua soil, it's essential to consider the nutrient requirements and buffering capacity of each substrate. Mixing incompatible aqua soils may result in nutrient imbalances or fluctuations in pH levels.

Q: How deep should I layer aqua soil in my aquarium?
A: The depth of the aqua soil layer depends on the type of plants you intend to grow and the size of your aquarium. In general, aim for a depth of 1-3 inches for most planted aquarium setups. 
 
Q: Can I add aquasoil to my aquarium?
A: Yes, adding aquasoil to your aquarium can be beneficial, especially if you're aiming for a planted tank setup. Aquasoil is a substrate specifically designed to promote healthy plant growth by providing essential nutrients and maintaining water parameters ideal for aquatic plants.
 
Q: How do I add aquasoil to my aquarium safely?

A: Follow these steps for safe and effective addition of aquasoil to your aquarium:

  1. Plan Ahead: Before adding aquasoil, thoroughly plan your aquascape design and the type of plants you intend to keep. This will help you determine the quantity of aquasoil required.

  2. Prepare Aquarium: Remove any existing substrate or debris from the aquarium. Perform a water change if needed to ensure good water quality.

  3. Rinse Aquasoil (Optional): Some aquarists prefer to rinse aquasoil to reduce cloudiness when adding it to the tank. However, rinsing may also remove some of the beneficial nutrients. Decide based on your preference and the specific brand of aquasoil.

  4. Layering: Add a layer of aquasoil to the bottom of the aquarium. The depth of the substrate layer depends on the size of your tank and the plants you plan to grow. Typically, aim for a depth of 1.5 to 3 inches (3.8 to 7.6 cm).

  5. Fill with Water: Slowly fill the aquarium with water, either by pouring water over a plate or by using a hose to gently fill the tank. Pouring water over a plate can help minimize disruption to the substrate.

  6. Planting: Once the aquarium is filled, you can start planting your aquatic plants directly into the aquasoil. Use aquascaping tools to create desired arrangements.

  7. Cycling: After planting, it's essential to cycle your aquarium to establish beneficial bacteria. Monitor water parameters regularly and perform water changes as necessary to maintain water quality.

  8. Monitor and Maintain: Keep an eye on the aquarium for any signs of ammonia spikes or other issues during the initial stages. Regular maintenance, such as pruning plants and vacuuming substrate, will help keep the aquarium healthy in the long run.

By following these steps, you can safely add aquasoil to your aquarium and create a thriving aquatic environment for your plants and fish.


Walter Murray (Facebook)

Keep up the great work Aquascaperoom!

just placed my third order I'm sure I'll be as happy as I was with last 2 orders can't wait for my new plants thanks in advance aquascape room

Walter Murray (Facebook)

Meghan Davidson (Google)

Only the best!

Amazing quality plants and amazingly packed! I don't think I will buy my aquatic plants from anywhere else! Also, amazing customer service! My LONGWEEKEND code didn't work so they refunded me the difference the next day! Highly highly recommend!!! Thank you so much aquascaperoom!!!

Meghan Davidson (Google)

John Burrows  (Google Review)

Willing To Help!

100% satisfied with the service I received. I am new to the hobby and Leo took the time to answer any questions I had and even suggested a few products to help my plants thrive in their new home without harming any live stock.

John Burrows (Google Review)

Vincent Leroux  @drinksandscapes

Great Local Business

I have been in contact with the store since January in order to get the right selection of plants. Even with the pandemic and lack of supplies they were able to get my full selection which was pretty big. The quality of Tropica plants are impeccable. They answered all my questions and help me out with many tips regarding how to best plant my selection. If you wish to support a local business and get the best selection of plants 100% recommend using Aquascaperoom Canada.

Vincent Leroux @drinksandscapes

Andrew Wilson  (Google Review)

Amazing Service

Great service. On time Toronto pick-up. Received a follow-up email from Leo the next day asking about my satisfaction with their products and service. That doesn't happen everyday and it was very much appreciated. I will buy from Aquascaperoom again soon.

Andrew Wilson (Google Review)

Juan Miguel C. Jara (Facebook)

Best Customer Service!

Such an amazing customer service. I ordered a few plants and some didnt look too good. I contacted them and they responded quickly. They took time to help me and walked me through what to do with the plants. They are very kind and understanding. I will be purchasing more from them in the future.

Juan Miguel C. Jara (Facebook)

Brittany Osmond (Facebook)

Only the best!

I’ve been using live plants in my aquariums for a little over two years. I get a lot of them from the aquascaperoom website. I have never had any problems, all the plants arrive very healthy and I bought their fertilizer tablets and liquid fertilizer and both are amazing for helping keep my plants healthy. They got so much variety on the website and the shipping is amazing. I can’t recommend them enough, you won’t be sorry you bought plants from this amazing business.

Brittany Osmond (Facebook)

Jenna Phinney  (Facebook)

⭐10 out of 10

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 10 stars would be a far more accurate rating

Jenna Phinney (Facebook)

Jonathan Podzyhun @greatascape

Aquascaperoom Is Excellent !

Excellent customer service , great products!

Jonathan Podzyhun @greatascape

Josh Payne (Facebook)

A+++ 5/5 Stars!

Great quality plants! Arrived super healthy and look forward to doing business in the future! A+++ 5/5 stars highly recommend!

Josh Payne (Facebook)

Michael Pace (Facebook)

10 out of 10!

I place a very rushed order and contacted them to see if i can pickup in person .. they worked with me 100% and i was able to meet and pickup .. that shows that they really care about customers and their needs .. i was so happy and grateful i will for sure be ordering from them again in the future

Michael Pace (Facebook)

Isobel Springett (Facebook)

FAST SHIPPING!

My plant order came fast and was in excellent condition. They're all thriving and were obviously well cared for before shipping. Great service and I'll be ordering again.

Isobel Springett (Facebook)

Amanda MacKinnon (Facebook)

Express Shipping with DOA!

The customer service here was absolutely above and beyond! I had 2 items arrive in not so good health but that probably happened during shipping and not because of the company, regardless I was refunded the 110% store credit for the items. Everything was well packed upon my next order and even came with a 72hr heat pack for the plants! I will do a lot more shopping here and will recommend it to anyone! Thank you Aquascaperoom!

Amanda MacKinnon (Facebook)