Application guide
Pebbles for Aquariums and Aquascaping
Aquarium stone has to satisfy three tests: it must be smooth enough not to injure fish, inert enough not to swing water chemistry, and graded so that waste does not accumulate in deep voids.
That rules out a good deal of decorative stone. Tell us the tank type and species when you enquire so we can point you at the appropriate material rather than the best-looking one.
Suitable pebble types
- Aquarium pebbles
- Quartz pebbles
- Polished pebbles
- Coloured pebbles
Recommended sizes
5–10 mm for planted tanks; 10–30 mm for display layers and bowls.
Recommended finish
Smooth natural or polished. Avoid crushed, sharp-edged material.
Colour selection
Darker substrate makes fish colours stand out; pale substrate brightens the whole tank.
Quantity considerations
25–50 mm substrate depth. Tank base area × depth gives the volume required.
Estimate your requirement
Installation tips
- 1Rinse thoroughly in plain water until it runs clear.
- 2Never use soap or detergent on aquarium stone.
- 3Add stone before filling, and pour water onto a plate to avoid disturbing the layer.
Maintenance
- Siphon the substrate during routine water changes.
- Watch pH and hardness after adding any new stone.
Recommended products for aquariums and aquascaping
- Aquarium PebblesSmooth, rounded stone selected for tanks, bowls and aquascaping layouts.
- Quartz PebblesHard, chemically inert stone with a bright crystalline appearance.
- Polished PebblesTumbled and polished stones with a deeper colour and a subtle sheen — the choice for display areas and interiors.
- Coloured PebblesA broad palette of decorative stone for interiors, retail display, gifting and craft work.
Topic hub
Part of our water feature, aquarium and drainage pebbles guide
Stone selection where water is involved — features, tanks, drainage and filter beds.
Read the water feature, aquarium and drainage pebbles hub →Products in this topic
Where it is used
Aquariums and aquascaping — frequently asked questions
Planning a aquariums and aquascaping project?
Send the area, depth and delivery city and we will confirm suitable products, quantities and freight.