Is Gravel Needed On Top Of Substrate In Planted Tank?

HI experts,

This is the first time I am setting up a planted tank. I want to know if any type of gravel or pebbles are needed on top of the sand substrate.

I heard that gravel settles down the sand so that sand does not get absorbed in the filter and gravel will give good appearance.
But fish waste will be present on top of gravel with less chance of reaching the sand beneath.

So please present with your views and advice on how to proceed. Thanks

 

HI experts,

This is the first time I am setting up a planted tank. I want to know if any type of gravel or pebbles are needed on top of the sand substrate.

I heard that gravel settles down the sand so that sand does not get absorbed in the filter and gravel will give good appearance.
But fish waste will be present on top of gravel with less chance of reaching the sand beneath.

So please present with your views and advice on how to proceed. Thanks

Gravel isn't needed on top of the sand, it usually is just for appearance. What type of filter are you using? Most filters shouldn't suck up any sand unless the intake is incredibly strong so there's no real worry there. What size tank?
The only thing you need to do well with sand is vacuum it well, so no air pockets are underneath with waste, that causes anaerobic conditions and is dangerous.

Side note: Sand isn't needed for a planted tank, gravel works too but it's whatever you like best. A mix of both works as well

 

Gravel isn't needed on top of the sand, it usually is just for appearance. What type of filter are you using? Most filters shouldn't suck up any sand unless the intake is incredibly strong so there's no real worry there. What size tank?
The only thing you need to do well with sand is vacuum it well, so no air pockets are underneath with waste, that causes anaerobic conditions and is dangerous.

Side note: Sand isn't needed for a planted tank, gravel works too but it's whatever you like best. A mix of both works as well

Thank you very much for your response. I have a 15 gallon molded tank with top filter. I will proceed without gravel

 

You'll want a gravel cap if you use soil (releases ammonia), but for sand you don't need it.

 

If you want a planted usually inert substrates aren't very good. Have you considered using aqusoil