Which substrate is best?

[Oplr]

Hey guys
I got a 27 gallon tank and wanted to use it as a tank for my dwarf cichlid. I am completely new to planted tanks etc and was wondering what the best substrate to use is? I heard of UP Aqua sand but its an absolute fortune in the UK.

Can you guys help me out

 

[dr exum]

Ttt

Seachem has some stuff that’s $40 a bag....

 

[dr exum]

Had same question

 

[mrrobxc]

If you want heavily planted high tech with challenging stem plants, stock with soil based substrates with ADA Aquasoil being the best.

If you want good CEC and low cost, go with Saf-t-sorb clay based substrate. It’s wayyy better than flourite or eco complete.

If you are keeping easy plants, low tech, and don’t mind using root tabs, use inert sand. It’ll look most natural with the fish theme of dwarf SA cichlids.