ScottPHX

How deep should the gravel be? I'm guessing a couple of inches maybe? Does it matter? Also, I plan on getting a canister type filter, but I want to introduce some bubbles to the tank as well. Are there fish that don't react well to bubbles? I envision a few streams of bubbles at the back of my tank. Thanks for all the help so far, it's much appreciated

Isabella

If your tank will not be planted, you don't have to have gravel at all if you don't want. Gravel in a non-planted tank is purely decorational. So it's up to you how much of it you want to have. One inch should be fine without plants - of course you could have more if you want. But remember that if you do not perform regular gravel vacs, and if you'll have a lot of gravel, there will be a lot of debris trapped in there which will cause your nitrate to increase. So it's always important to vacuum your gravel regularly (with regular water changes). I don't think any fish would react negatively to bubbles, unless it's some extremely powerful bubble wand or airstone (lol ) that makes it difficult for the fish to swim and move around.

ScottPHX

Thanks Isabella!!

Jmarcus

I understand that a rule of thumb for gravel for planted tanks is at least two pounds gravel / substrate per gallon of water.

ScottPHX

I'll see if i can keep fish alive before I try to keep plants alive HAHAHAHA!!!