How much substrate?

[shimek182]

Hello everyone,
I'm trying to figure out how much substrate I need for my new tank.
The tank dimensions are 36" L x 13" W x 24" H
I have already purchased three 15 pound bags and want my substrate to be at least 3" deep
How many more bags should I get to accomplish this?
Thanks!

 

[TL1000RSquid]

Usually about 1.5lbs per gallon, depending on the substrate type, try the calculator below.
http://www.plantedtank.net/substratecalculator.html

 

[tanker]

Why do you want 3" ?? Are you going to have plants??

 

[shimek182]

Why do you want 3" ?? Are you going to have plants??

Yes, It's going to be a planted tank.
I have already bought three 15lb bags of flourite,, I'm thinking a layer of gravel to top it off will be good.

 

[iheartbettas]

The calculation is 13x36=468. Divide that by 10 to get 2 inches. So 46.8 lbs will give you 2 inches. 46.8 x 1.5 = 70. So 70 lbs will get you to 3 inches. You need 25 more lbs.


Sent from my iPhone using MonsterAquariaNetwork app

 

[jpappy789]

3" still seems like a lot, even for a planted tank. I aim for maybe 2-2.5" myself.

 

[Kashta]

Agree you don't need 3 inches for a planted tank. It's better to keep closer to 2 inches. If you need to anchor new plants temporarily until their roots burrow in, use a few (clean) stones or ornaments.

 

[shimek182]

Agree you don't need 3 inches for a planted tank. It's better to keep closer to 2 inches. If you need to anchor new plants temporarily until their roots burrow in, use a few (clean) stones or ornaments.

Okay,, thanks so much for the advice!