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5 Best Substrates of 2026

Last Updated - 2026/04/01

1
Best Choice

✖
Our rankings are cleverly generated from the algorithmic analysis of thousands of customer reviews about products, brands, merchant’s customer service level, popularity, trends and more. The rankings reflect our opinion and should be a good starting point for shopping.

Fluval

Fluval Bio-Stratum - 4 kg (8.8 lb)

Fluval

CA$44.99

More Details
Main highlights
- Softens water naturally, reducing carbonate hardness - Will not stain water and helps control organic discoloration
- Size: 4 kg (8.8 lb)
- Promotes healthy plant development, vigorous growth and vibrant color
- Made from 100% natural, mineral-rich volcanic soil from Mount Aso in Japan and infused with beneficial nitrifying bacteria
- Helps support a neutral to slightly acidic pH – ideal for live plants as well as tropical fish and shrimp commonly kept in planted aquariums
CA$44.99
2
Best Value
15% Off

✖
Our rankings are cleverly generated from the algorithmic analysis of thousands of customer reviews about products, brands, merchant’s customer service level, popularity, trends and more. The rankings reflect our opinion and should be a good starting point for shopping.

Zoo Med
15% Off

Zoo Med Laboratories CM24 Forest Floor Bedding, 24 Quarts

Zoo Med

CA$36.54

CA$42.99
(15% Off)

More Details
Main highlights
- Recommended terrarium substrate for many species of snakes, lizards, land turtles, tortoises, frogs, toads, salamanders, tarantulas
- Package Weight: 5.76 kilograms
- All natural and #34;green and #34; product
- 100-Percent natural cypress mulch
CA$36.54
CA$42.99 (15% Off)
3

✖
Our rankings are cleverly generated from the algorithmic analysis of thousands of customer reviews about products, brands, merchant’s customer service level, popularity, trends and more. The rankings reflect our opinion and should be a good starting point for shopping.

Fluval

Fluval 12693 Plant and Shrimp Stratum, 4.4-Pound, Black, 2 kg (Pack of 1)

Fluval

CA$25.99

More Details
Main highlights
- Suitable for live plants or shrimp
- Stimulates strong aquarium plant growth
- Promotes neutral to mildly acidic pH
- Fluval Stratum is made of mineral rich volcanic soil
- 4.4 lb bag
CA$25.99
4

✖
Our rankings are cleverly generated from the algorithmic analysis of thousands of customer reviews about products, brands, merchant’s customer service level, popularity, trends and more. The rankings reflect our opinion and should be a good starting point for shopping.

Fluval

Fluval 12693 Plant and Shrimp Stratum, 4.4-Pound, Black, 2 kg (Pack of 1)

Fluval

CA$25.99

More Details
Main highlights
- Suitable for live plants or shrimp
- Stimulates strong aquarium plant growth
- Promotes neutral to mildly acidic pH
- Fluval Stratum is made of mineral rich volcanic soil
- 4.4 lb bag
CA$25.99
5
11% Off

✖
Our rankings are cleverly generated from the algorithmic analysis of thousands of customer reviews about products, brands, merchant’s customer service level, popularity, trends and more. The rankings reflect our opinion and should be a good starting point for shopping.

Aqua Natural
11% Off

Aqua Natural Diamond Black 10lb, Premium Gravel and Substrate for Aquariums, Fish Tanks and terrariums, 1-2mm

Aqua Natural

CA$22.62

CA$25.39
(11% Off)

More Details
Main highlights
- Promotes good bacteria growth because of its large surface area
- Great for Aquatic Plants
- Contrasts well with a planted tank
- Aquarium Safe - 100% natural
CA$22.62
CA$25.39 (11% Off)

5 Best Substrates of 2026

Fluval Bio-Stratum - 4 kg (8.8 lb)

Zoo Med Laboratories CM24 Forest Floor Bedding, 24 Quarts

Fluval 12693 Plant and Shrimp Stratum, 4.4-Pound, Black, 2 kg (Pack of 1)

Fluval 12693 Plant and Shrimp Stratum, 4.4-Pound, Black, 2 kg (Pack of 1)

Aqua Natural Diamond Black 10lb, Premium Gravel and Substrate for Aquariums, Fish Tanks and terrariums, 1-2mm

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