Editor's Choice - Our Favorite SubstrateSource Aquarium Gravel
1. SubstrateSource Natural Lava Gravel - 2 Pounds
User Ratings: 68 3
SubstrateSource NR0120-2 First Impressions
"It's what I needed."The color of the gravel makes the blue in my Tetra's and Gourami's pop. I baught a 5 gallon tank and i had to buy 2 packs. Wonderful mixture of color with the black stone. I just wanted to post a picture so you can see how much comes in a pack. Plenty of rock for my 5 gal aquarium. I used this for a small aquarium with 2 goldfish and it worked great! The pebbles are a perfect size for 30+ gallon tanks.
- SubstrateSource Natural Lava Gravel - 2 Pounds
- All natural lava substrate.
- Plants love it.
- Screened, washed, and kiln dried.
- Highly porous.
- Manufacture: SubstrateSource
- Item Weight: 2.49 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The SubstrateSource NR0120-2
- Quality [star rating='4.7']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.3']
- Affordability [star rating='4.1']
SubstrateSource NR0120-2 Final Thoughts
"There is a simple remedy."It has lovely colors and I will be using ONLY this gravel in the future. The pebbles are a perfect size for 30+ gallon tanks. I opened the bag, dumped it in a bowl and filled it with water. I would buy again if the price didn't double from last time. Really like the coloring of them as well. I really love this natural gravel, really makes my 20g High look natural! I'd recommend but just be wary of debris.
Overall Score
4.3
(47 Points)

Here Are Some Other Related Aquarium Gravel
2. Caribsea Super Naturals Essentials Aquarium Sand
User Ratings: 64 8
CaribSea Aquatics 008479008480 First Impressions
"Ideal for my tank."I decided on this particular brand of gravel because of Amazon's add-on program. These colors combine to give an overall color of light brown. Love the vibrant neon colors mixed in with the black gravel. It gives a very natural riverbed look to the aquarium. For my purpose, they work perfectly, for an aquarium, they might need a quick rinse. They served their purpose, but had to be the dirtiest rocks I have ordered. Some of the bad feedback says it clouds the water.
- Caribsea Super Naturals Essentials Aquarium Sand
- Create a supernatural experience by re-creating the natural world in your home
- Enjoy a piece of the Rio Negro as it winds its way through dark and brooding jungles
- Dramatic black sand rivers and beaches grace the flanks of verdant tropical islands capped by smoldering volcanoes
- Manufacture: Deepwater Aquatics Distribution
- Product Dimensions: 20 x 2 x 13 inches; 20 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The CaribSea Aquatics 008479008480
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.5']
- Affordability [star rating='4.2']
CaribSea Aquatics 008479008480 Final Thoughts
"I do not own fish."I've been using it now for a couple of months and nothing has happened to them. Although I had to rinse it about 5 times to fully get ALL of the dust out. I decided on this particular brand of gravel because of Amazon's add-on program. All substraight needs to be thoroughly rinsed before use. Color is good contrast to the Beta. It does need a good washing, and I used a 5 gallon bucket method. Plenty of rock for my 5 gal aquarium.
Overall Score
4.1
(47 Points)

3. OUPENG Pebbles Polished Gravel, Natural Polished White Stones 3/8" Gravel Size, Small Decorative Riv...
User Ratings: 77 3
OUPENG First Impressions
"Be careful!"Stir periodically and then your good to go! I planned on spending 24-48 hours removing all the dust in washes and soaks. Don't even hesitate on purchasing this stuff. Overall I am happy with the gravel. The color mixture with the darker colors in it does that very well. Don't own a blacklight so can't tell if it glows or not. Not sure why there is so much bad feedback for this.
- OUPENG Pebbles Polished Gravel, Natural Polished White Stones 3/8" Gravel Size, Small Decorative River Rock Stones 2-lb Bag (32-Oz)
- Natural Stone Rocks: Each bag contains different shapes of decorative white river pebbles, which are lightly polished and coated with pure paraffin waxes to improve color and gloss. (As stone rocks are natural substances, some may be broken or out of shape. Generally, the shapes of pebbles are oval or round, with uneven thickness)
- Versatility: Perfect for home decor projects, such as floral arrangements, vases, bowls, display glass jars, glass hurricane candle holders, cactus, glass containers, bamboo plants, aquariums, rock gardens, potted plants and more.
- ECO FRIENDLY SMALL GRAVEL SIZE: 3/8" average size is perfect for small applications.Only natural stones and wax, no additional fillers, dyes, or oils.
- Best Mulch Alternatives: These decorative river pebble rocks are great for interior or exterior garden beds, which can provide both moisture retention and better drainage to keep areas clean and beautiful.
- Decoration: You don't have to spend too much money decorating your houseplants, pebble rocks can meet your needs. The natural decorative polished white pebbles can refresh and beautify indoors.
- Manufacture: OUPENG
- Item Weight: 2 pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The OUPENG
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.1']
- Affordability [star rating='4.2']
OUPENG Final Thoughts
"Just my thoughts."Don't use any soaps or anything else. The pebbles are a perfect size for 30+ gallon tanks. For smaller plants, these rocks are a little on the big side. I planned on spending 24-48 hours removing all the dust in washes and soaks. I use a hybrid of the Walstad Method, and this stuff is perfect. Love the vibrant neon colors mixed in with the black gravel. Fast delivery and item true to description.
Overall Score
4.6
(376 Points)

4. Imagitarium Purple Aquarium Gravel, 1 lb.
User Ratings: 47 33
Imagitarium First Impressions
"No more gnats."I envisioned the bag being bigger since I ordered a 50lbs. It will take you a while to properly clean. I used these to put on top of soil if my pot plants. I wanted white rocks that were vibrant. 5 inches of gravel, so you could use more or less depending on tank size. I have blue lights and white lights in my tanks. It really makes the tank look sharp and I believe the goldfish likes it, too.
- Imagitarium Purple Aquarium Gravel, 1 lb.
- Made of non-toxic fish safe materials and colors
- Safe for use in freshwater and marine environments
- For optimum results, use 2 lbs. of gravel per every one gallon of water
- Manufacture: Imagitarium
- Item Weight: 1 pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The Imagitarium
- Quality [star rating='3']
- Value For Money [star rating='2.1']
- Affordability [star rating='4']
Imagitarium Final Thoughts
"Be prepared!"One bag was open and had emptied into the box. Like everyone else says wash it before putting it in your tank. It's a gemstone quality gravel, not the topfin crap from petsmart. Really like the coloring of them as well. Works great in my daughter aquarium. All substraight needs to be thoroughly rinsed before use. Like everyone else says wash it before putting it in your tank.
Overall Score
3.1
(6 Points)

5. Pure Water Pebbles Nature's Ocean Aquarium Gravel Neon Cherryberry Aquarium Gravel 5-lb
User Ratings: 52 23
Pure Water Pebbles First Impressions
"I split the 15."I rinsed it before I put it in the tank. I absolutely love how the rocks glow in my tank! The rocks are REALLY dirty, and contain random debris. Just do a proper rinse, and you will be fine. I opened the bag, dumped it in a bowl and filled it with water. Wash gravel well before use, and its pretty good. Fast delivery and item true to description.
- Pure Water Pebbles Nature's Ocean Aquarium Gravel Neon Cherryberry Aquarium Gravel 5-lb
- Natural Aquarium Gravel
- 100% Acrylic Coating
- Will not alter the chemistry of your aquarium water
- Non-toxic
- Colorfast
- Manufacture: Nature's Ocean
- Editor's Impressions Of The Pure Water Pebbles
- Quality [star rating='4']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.6']
- Affordability [star rating='4']
Pure Water Pebbles Final Thoughts
"The color is very pretty."I was scared to buy it after the reviews I read about it killing their fish. I have a 90 gallon aquarium with a footprint of 18 by 48 inches. This is perfect for a 2 gallon tank that also has some acrylic gems. I wanted white rocks that were vibrant. I've been using it now for a couple of months and nothing has happened to them. I filled with filter water ad let sit for a day before relocate fish. This is not the colored synthetic aquarium medium.
Overall Score
3.8
(5 Points)

6. Spectrastone Special Black Aquarium Gravel for Freshwater Aquariums
User Ratings: 74 6
Spectrastone 40506 First Impressions
"That's all I can say."I did rinse it off before putting it in the aquarium. I think the pink makes my aquarium stand out and gives it a cute little look. The rocks are REALLY dirty, and contain random debris. I rinsed it before I put it in the tank. Fast delivery and item true to description. Don't use any soaps or anything else. Originally I bought the black with colored stones for my 5 gallon tank.
- Spectrastone Special Black Aquarium Gravel for Freshwater Aquariums
- Will not affect PH
- Safe for use in freshwater aquariums
- Non-Toxic coating
- Manufacture: Estes Gravel Products
- Product Dimensions: 10 x 7.25 x 1.5 inches; 5 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The Spectrastone 40506
- Quality [star rating='4.8']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.6']
- Affordability [star rating='4.8']
Spectrastone 40506 Final Thoughts
"Would purchase again."The glow is pretty minimal but it still looks nice. I rinsed it about 3-4 times and felt satisfied it was good. One bag was open and had emptied into the box. I planned on spending 24-48 hours removing all the dust in washes and soaks. It really makes the tank look sharp and I believe the goldfish likes it, too. I WOULD recommend buying this item! I have bought 2 bags of this gravel.
Overall Score
4.5
(172 Points)

7. Glow in The Dark Pebbles for Garden Décor, Glow in The Dark Gravel Rocks Pebbles Marbles for Fairy ...
User Ratings: 55 12
Alan Stone First Impressions
"Great product."We bought this for a glo fish tank. A little bigger than what I wanted but I still used it. I did rinse it off before putting it in the aquarium. This is the real deal mother earth approx. The color looks beautiful and natural in the tank. Although I had to rinse it about 5 times to fully get ALL of the dust out. I would buy again if the price didn't double from last time.
- Glow in The Dark Pebbles for Garden Décor, Glow in The Dark Gravel Rocks Pebbles Marbles for Fairy Garden, Glowing Stones Aquarium Gravel DIY Garden Gifts (Flake Shape, 44pcs,315g/0.69lbs) (Rose)
- Size: 3-4cm(1 1/2''-1 4/7'') Package:315g/0.69lbs approximately 44pcs in a brown box.
- Multi-colored Glowing Pebbles for Choice. Please choose the color that you want carefully before purchasing. The original color and glowing color would be different.
- Light Charged Glowing Pebbles. Glow lasts approximately 3-4 hours in the dark after direct sunlight or UV light exposure for 20 minutes. The glow will be faded out gradually. If you want it to glow all the time in the dark indoor or outdoor, please install a LED UV black light above them. They can charge and glow repeatedly.
- Eco-Friendly Material. These pebbles are made from the highest quality of photoluminescent pigment and have a very high concentration per pebble.It's EN71 approved. non-toxic, non-radioactive and completely harmless to decorate.
- Variety Use. It can be applied to indoor and outdoor flooring, to make the terrazzo, to decorate pool, bar, vase,patio lawn, fish tank and aquarium, It also can be used to decorate the garden flower pots, to mark paths and walk way or as a border for plant beds or ponds. ideal decor for waterscapes, landscape decoration, potted plants, edge a flower bed, lighting a walkway or driveway, gardens, crafts,vase filler,.etc.
- Manufacture: Xiamen Alan Stone Trade Co., Ltd.
- Item Weight: 10.6 ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The Alan Stone
- Quality [star rating='3.6']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.6']
- Affordability [star rating='3.5']
Alan Stone Final Thoughts
"Works great!"Bigger than normal aquarium gravel, nice colors, good quality, no smell. I wanted white rocks that were vibrant. The rocks are REALLY dirty, and contain random debris. Color is good contrast to the Beta. I have blue lights and white lights in my tanks. I've been using that for a few months now with my betta. It looks great and didn't change anything about the water.
Overall Score
3.9
(10 Points)

8. Carib Sea ACS00110 Crushed Coral for Aquarium, 10-Pound
User Ratings: 80 1
Carib Sea 008479001108 First Impressions
"These rocks are perfect!"I have bought 2 bags of this gravel. So far, really happy with how it looks in my small tank. Purchased 9 bags of this for a new 180 gallon aquarium. Really just rinsed a little and ready to go. I wanted white rocks that were vibrant. I was scared to buy it after the reviews I read about it killing their fish. For my purpose, they work perfectly, for an aquarium, they might need a quick rinse.
- Carib Sea ACS00110 Crushed Coral for Aquarium, 10-Pound
- Caribe crushed coral 10lb per case
- A solid and economical performer
- Economical Performer
- Manufacture: TopDawg Pet Supply
- Product Dimensions: 1 x 1 x 1 inches; 1 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The Carib Sea 008479001108
- Quality [star rating='4.5']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.7']
- Affordability [star rating='4']
Carib Sea 008479001108 Final Thoughts
"Exactly as pictured."Fast delivery and item true to description. I'm accenting with multicolored glass rocks to accent. So will just see if color stays-God willing! Not sure why there is so much bad feedback for this. I WOULD recommend buying this item! I decided on this particular brand of gravel because of Amazon's add-on program. I am disappointed that there seems to be nothing special about this gravel.
Overall Score
4.7
(467 Points)

9. WGV Mini Crushed Rock Gravel, 2 lbs, Decorative Ornamental Pebbles Stone, Accent Vase Filler for Lan...
User Ratings: 66
WGVI 03011WT_2.2 First Impressions
"That's all I can say."Not sure why there is so much bad feedback for this. Removed pebbles and refilled for the 3rd time. It looks great and didn't change anything about the water. Really just rinsed a little and ready to go. I didn't even need the water clarifier, and I found it in the bag. Bigger than normal aquarium gravel, nice colors, good quality, no smell. Bigger than normal aquarium gravel, nice colors, good quality, no smell.
- WGV Mini Crushed Rock Gravel, 2 lbs, Decorative Ornamental Pebbles Stone, Accent Vase Filler for Landscaping, Succlents, Aquarium and Terrarium, Crafting for Home Decor, 2 Plastic Bags, Snow White
- Include: 1/8"-1/4" snow white crushed rocks, 2 bags, 2 lbs, plastic bag
- Feature: non-toxic and eco-friendly, natural lightly polished for smooth effect, easy on the feet as there are no sharp edges
- Use: aquariums, rock gardens, succulent tillandsia plants, cactus pot, terrarium, bamboo plants and bonsai trees
- Popularity: floral arrangements, centerpieces, vases, bowls, apothecary jars, wedding buffet, display canisters, pillar candle in hurricane glass
- Satisfaction: Customer experience is our top priority, contact us for any issue
- Manufacture: WGV International
- Item Weight: 2.22 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 6 x 4 x 2 inches
- Editor's Impressions Of The WGVI 03011WT_2.2
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.6']
- Affordability [star rating='4.2']
WGVI 03011WT_2.2 Final Thoughts
"It's what I needed."Don't own a blacklight so can't tell if it glows or not. It will take you a while to properly clean. Don't use any soaps or anything else. This was the cheapest DIY project with a big wow factor. It has lovely colors and I will be using ONLY this gravel in the future. The 50 pound bag was jus barely enough for my 55 gallon tank! The rock arrived quickly and several days before projected.
Overall Score
4.5
(15 Points)

10. LQKYWNA 100g,0.22 Pounds Black Pebbles Aquarium Gravel River Rock Natural Polished Decorative Gravel...
LQKYWNA First Impressions
"Nicely polished."It's my new, absolute favorite substrate. I envisioned the bag being bigger since I ordered a 50lbs. The little package of clarifier included is not nearly enough. I half rinse it and put it in my tank. Overall I am very pleased with my purchase and would suggest this product to others. It was easy to clean and looks great in my bamboo glass vases! I would buy again if the price didn't double from last time.
- LQKYWNA 100g,0.22 Pounds Black Pebbles Aquarium Gravel River Rock Natural Polished Decorative Gravel Natural Polished Decorative Stones Decor Gravel for Landscaping
- ✅【PEBBLES SPECIFICATION】: Natural polished pebbles, color: black; weight: about 0.22 pounds/1.1 pounds/2.2 pounds; size: 5-7mm/7-9mm/9-12mm. Three models are available.
- ✅【FOOT MASSAGE】: The black pebbles are smooth and have no sharp edges. These pebbles are easy to step on your feet. It can be used for foot massage, it will be very comfortable and it can be a healthy way to keep in good health.
- ✅【DIY DESIGN】: You can DIY necklaces or bracelets or rings by polishing these gems. It can also be used for indoor walls, stage panels, outdoor walls, outdoor floors, etc. Paving the pebbles on the garden path can effectively prevent slippage and prevent water on the ground in rainy days.
- ✅【CULTIVATED PLANTS】: The garden is decorated with pebbles, and the crystal crushed stones are placed in potted plants, which will make the plants grow healthy, lush and vibrant plants. Very suitable for rock gardens, flower arrangements, succulent chicory plants, cactus pots, terrariums, bamboo plants and bonsai trees.
- ✅【WIDE APPLICATION】: Aquarium black pebble gravel river rocks can be used for mineral fish tank decoration or fish tank decoration. Putting the crystal crushed stone in the fish tank is not only pleasant, but also keeps the water magnetization clean, allowing the fish to grow healthily.
- Manufacture: LQKYWNA
- Item Weight: 3.98 ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The LQKYWNA
- Quality [star rating='3.2']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.2']
- Affordability [star rating='2.4']
LQKYWNA Final Thoughts
"So it really is natural."All n all, very happy with the purchase. Obviously required a lot of rinsing. I did rinse it off before putting it in the aquarium. I didn't even need the water clarifier, and I found it in the bag. Stir periodically and then your good to go! 5 inches of gravel, so you could use more or less depending on tank size. It will take you a while to properly clean.
Overall Score
3.2
(2 Points)
