Redtech

We're probably going to be using gravel, but how much do I need to buy for a 16 Gallon tank? Does it have to be a certain depth?

pinkfloydpuffer

I think they usually say 2 lbs. per gallon.

Redtech

Thank you once again!!! :-)

Shawnie

I had wondered this too when I began..and I have some long tanks and short tanks etc...so some arent the normal 20 gal or 10 gal...so my buddy told me multiple length by width then divide by 10 ...thats always worked for me LOL

mathas

That's close to how much I used, as long as the units of measurement are inches and pounds OP has an American flag, so I'm guessing he'll (or she'll) be fine.

My issue with the "x pounds per gallon" guidelines is what Shawnie mentioned... that they don't take tank dimensions into consideration. A standard 75g tank and 90g tank would have the same 48"x18" base size, one is just taller. Why should it get an extra 15-30lbs of substrate?

Shawnie

I agree!! My 20 gal long takes way more than my reg 20 gal...it looked nekid in the long with the same amount I put in the standard 20 gal...so that way works for me

pinkfloydpuffer

I think 1" should be sufficient, right? Unless it's planted.

sirdarksol

Any amount is fine for non-planted tanks.

Shawnie

I go with 2inches...but its to each their own preference ...in my betta tanks, I have big marbles and they are way more than 2 inches in some areas

angelfish220

In planted tanks 2-4 inches is what I like, depending on the type of plant. in a non planted is is just preference

Redtech

Thanks everybody. I don't plan to plant. I'm a newbie so that's just one more thing to worry about.

Its a 16 gallon bow-front tank. I'll have to check the dimensions before I go shopping. I want to have everything we need before Christmas morning so we can get the tank set up and start cycling it asap! I might be able to get some good fish from another person's tank but I haven't asked them yet.

PS - Yes, I'm She. I need to work on my profile/avatar thingy.

Jess

If you don't plan to plant. I wouldn't put much in. Enough to cover the bottom. That way you won't have trouble cleaning it. 1/2" to an 1".

thanson

Would you ever put a layer of Eco Complete and then a layer of Pool Filter Sand for a planted tank to help with the cost and from what I have read an easier time cleaning?

Butterfly

figure out how deep you want the substrate then use this calculator to figure out how much
http://www.plantedtank.net/substratecalculator.html
Carol

sirdarksol

That might work, though I'm not positive.

agabr123

that's exactly what i've done with my 10 gallon tank and so far it's going pretty well. the only complaint i have is just a personal thing, but the eco complete and the sand mix together a bit in some areas, and the eco complete has worked it's way to the top. it's a pain if you're trying to add water without displacing anything

Tavel

oh most excellent find!

I never could figure out why they sell the gravel by the pound when they KNOW we're using it in a volumetric application. they should sell it by the cubic foot!

Butterfly

Glad you like it I have it bookmarked. Thought it would be handy here
Carol