Byron Amazonas
AC Members
I had corys for many years over gravel, the small "natural" sort, with no discernable issues. I have since learned (by research and experience) that sand is better by far, and I now have common play sand in all but one tank. I've no idea what your gravel may be like, but if it is rough to the touch it is probably an issue for corys. The grain size might be an issue too, but the roughness is the more important.
My purpose in commenting on threads is to help others become more successful. I made many mistakes along the way, and lost many fish. Over time we all learn more and more, and thus become better aquarists and more successful.
Research in advance is very important in this hobby. I understand that most of us, myself certainly included, entered this hobby with a too-small fish tank and inappropriate fish. Advice from store staff is not always reliable, unfortunately, and sometimes non-existent. But there is no shame in learning. We are placing living creatures into a closed system which in itself is a very artifical environment. But natural biological processes are on-going, regardless, and we can't change them. Understanding what they are and how they work and then working with rather than against them is the key.
Success is more likely with selecting fish that are suited to what one can provide. I have very soft water, and I believe in significant water changes, so I maintain tanks of soft water fish. I provide an environment that I hope is close to what nature intended for them, since I know they will be healthier this way. There are compromises of course. But every species of fish has inherent needs, and we must recognize these.
I remember something I read in PFK, written by Nathan Hill. "The fish you've acquired was quite happy not being owned by you, minding its own business. If you’re going to take it under your wing then you’re responsible for it. Every aspect of its life is under your control, from water quality and temperature to swimming space."
