THIS is an inexpensive item and you have your choice of various colors. A 10-gallon standard size tank would need about 20 pounds, figuring 2 pounds to a gallon. This may seem like a lot, but you must have enough to enable your plants to take root and also to do your aquascaping.
Have it slope towards the front of the tank, as this enables you to keep it clean with very little effort, as the debris gathers in front and can be siphoned easily. Never use beach sand. It is impractical, as it must be cured and treated before it can be used in the aquarium. In view of the low cost of purchasable aquarium sand, it is not worth the trouble.(continued below)
Rinse gravel thoroughly before using, because it picks up dust en route. Although unwashed gravel is not harmful, it may cause the tank to become cloudy for awhile. The best way to do this is to place gravel in a pot or can. I-Told container under the faucet and permit water to flow into it. Keep stirring gravel with your hand until the water is absolutely clear. This will take a little extra energy on your part, but we feel sure you will be delighted with the crystal-clear aquarium you will have as a result.
