• Owning a fish as a pet can be a rewarding experience. You want the fish to have a great home while it is in your care. One of the aspects to fish aquariums that fish owners must consider is the gravel that lines the bottom of the tank. Aquarium tank gravel is beneficial for the aquarium because it provides decoration, a way to anchor plants or other decorations and also serves as a biological filtration system.
  
  

Decoration

• Gravel serves as a decorative item to the fish tank. A bare tank with no gravel may look drab and prove to be an eyesore for the surrounding room. Because gravel comes in multiple colors and textures, it is easy to find gravel that will match the vibe you want from the fish tank. A fish tank with gravel is pleasing aesthetically and gives the aquarium a more natural feel.
  
  

Anchor for Plants and Decorations

• If you plan to grow plants, you will need something to anchor them down in. A 1-inch layer of gravel along the bottom of the aquarium will allow for enough gravel to support the weight of any plants. Also, some decorations need to be anchored down to prevent floating or being turned over easily. Gravel works to anchor plants and decorations so that the tank can hold the items you want it to hold.
  
  

Biological Filtration

• Perhaps the most crucial benefit of gravel is that it provides a biological filtration system. Live rock contains air pockets that contain gases such as nitrogen that are released and stored to regulate the aquarium environment. Also, live rock can contain beneficial microbes that help keep the tank clean and sustain a rich oxygen environment for the fish.