Substrate for Native tank

[OutbackJack]

So right now, I have a Longear Sunfish and a few Golden Shiners in a 30G with Quikrete sand. It's been no issue at all and I swear by the stuff.

I'm talking to a fella about buying his 75G set up and he's including his Fluval Stratum substrate. I don't have much experience with planted tank soil and how native species would react to it. If it's all good then I'd love to grow some plants out for them. I've seen lots of native species planted aquarium set ups and I absolutely love the look.

But also, I want to add a Madtom and maybe some darters... but I'm not sure about how they would like the Fluval. Tbh, I've only used sand and BDBS as substrates before in my other tanks. Anyways, just seeing if anyone has any experience with this lol or if this is even something to worry about.

 

[fishtankmastery]

I’d be careful with that swap. I've used Fluval Stratum plenty, but honestly, it’s not the right fit for Madtoms or darters. That substrate is designed to be lightweight, nutrient-rich, and acidic...it's great for shrimp or specific soft-water plants, but it’s a nightmare for bottom-dwellers.
Madtoms and darters are classic sand-sifters and burrowers. They love to dig and hang out on the bottom. Stratum is too light; every time they move, they’re going to kick that stuff up, and it’ll turn your tank into a cloudy mess. Plus, native fish usually prefer stable, neutral water parameters, and Stratum is going to keep pushing your pH down, which you don't really need for them.
If you really want a planted look, maybe do a small designated area with the Stratum and keep the rest of the 75G as a sand bed. But if you fill the whole thing with Stratum, you're going to regret it the moment those fish start doing their thing.