Is Gravel Bad for Cory Catfish: What’s The Best Substrate to Use?

Aquarium gravel is an essential addition to any fish tank. Gravel helps keep the water clean and clear and provides a place for fish to hide and feel secure. It’s also important to note that gravel should never be used in place of plant ornaments, as it can smother them and reduce their growth. However, the effect is the other way around for cory catfish.

Gravel is not native to the environment in which cory catfish live, which can lead to many health problems. For example, these fish often have difficulty adapting to new surroundings and may experience genetic abnormalities. Additionally, gravel can cause cuts in your fish’s skin, leading to infections. If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of your substrate choice, it’s recommended that you consider using sand or another type of non-porous substrate.

Why Is Gravel Bad for Cory Catfish?

One potential issue with using gravel as a substrate for cory catfish is that gravel can be abrasive and rough on their skin. This can cause irritation and cuts in your fish’s skin, leading to health problems. Additionally, small pieces of gravel can get stuck in your fish’s teeth and gills, causing additional pain and suffering. For example, suppose you’re concerned about the potential harms of using gravel as a substrate for your cory catfish. In that case, it’s recommended that you use a more porous substrate such as sand or ceramic.

Major Health Risk

One final consideration to consider when it comes to gravel for cory catfish is the potential health risks associated with using this substrate. Gravel can contain tiny particles of sharp objects that can easily cut your fish’s skin and gills, causing severe harm. For example, suppose you’re concerned about the safety of gravel for your cory catfish. In that case, it’s recommended that you use a different substrate altogether or invest in a quality filter system that will remove rock and other hazardous materials from the water.

Unfamiliar

Another potential downside to using gravel as a substrate for cory catfish is that this material is not native to their environment. This can lead to health problems such as difficulty adapting to new surroundings and genetic abnormalities. For example, suppose you’re concerned about the environmental impact of your gravel substrate choice. In that case, it’s recommended that you consider using another type of substrate or upgrading to a more natural option like sand or ceramic.

Small Stones Aren’t Good, Either.

If you’re considering using gravel as a substrate for your cory catfish, it’s also important to avoid small stones and other similar materials. These items can quickly become trapped in the gravel and cause blockages that can restrict your fish’s swimming abilities. For example, if you choose to use small stones or pieces of gravel as part of your tank setup, keep them well-filtered, so they don’t get into the water column. In addition, you should also be on the lookout for small rocks, pebbles, and gravel that you may accidentally drop into your tank. This can lead to severe damage, which will require professional fish husbandry service.

What Substrate to Use Instead?

Ultimately, the best substrate for your cory catfish depends on several factors, including the fish’s natural environment and size. If you’re not sure what to use as a substrate for your cory catfish, it’s recommended that you start with sand or ceramic before moving onto the gravel. In addition, it’s essential to let your fish adapt to a new environment before adding unnatural items like sand or ceramic into their tank.

Sand Is the Best Substrate for Cory Catfish

Ultimately, the best substrate option for cory catfish is sand. This material is both natural and porous, meaning it will not cause cuts in your fish’s skin or trap tiny bits of gravel that can cause pain and suffering. Therefore, if you’re looking to provide your cory catfish with a healthy environment and easy adjustment to new surroundings, choose sand as their substrate of choice.

What Is the Best Sand to Use?

If you’re unsure what type of sand to use, starting with natural material is the safest option. Some good choices include beach sand or river gravel. If you want to go further, consider using volcanic rock or perlite instead. These materials are high in minerals which can be beneficial for your fish.

Why Do Cory Catfish Prefer Fine Sand?

Cory catfish are native to the Amazon River and its tributaries. This area is home to fast-flowing water with plenty of sand and gravel deposits. Because these fish live in areas with many particles, their natural diet includes a high concentration of them. Consequently, fine sand that’s similar to what they’re used to living in is the best substrate for corys.

How to Obtain Fine Sand for Your Aquarium?

The easiest way to obtain safe sand is through your local aquarium store or online retailer. Many online shops will mainly order fine materials that are the right size and shape for fish tanks, while others offer packages of river gravel, including tiny pebbles. If you’re planning on purchasing a whole package at once, you may better divide it into small portions and add it to your tank one at a time.

What Sand Should You Avoid?

Sharp Sand

Another common substrate mistake is using sharp sand. While this material may look appealing to fishkeepers, it can easily cause cuts and other injuries to your fish’s skin. In addition, sharp sand can crowd fish and reduce the swimming area you have available. If your goal is to keep corys healthy, it’s best to avoid strong stone products such as river gravel or beach sand.

Black Sand

Lastly, black sand is another lousy option for cory catfish. This type of substrate comprises fine particles that can easily clog your fish’s pores and cause poor visibility and health problems. In addition, this surface can smell pretty bad.