Gravel substrate Ilford Black Pebble II 30–50 mm for aquarium and terrarium, 10 kg pack

Ilford Black Pebble II 30–50 mm is a natural-looking gravel substrate designed for use in aquariums and terrariums. Supplied in a 10 kg pack, these smooth black pebbles form a stable layer for decorative hardscape, habitat flooring and drainage. The 30–50 mm fraction creates clear visual contrast with plants, water and animal colors while offering mechanical stability for rockwork and hideouts.

Advantages

The large 30–50 mm pebble size provides excellent stability for aquascape structures and prevents easy displacement by larger fish or burrowing reptiles. The natural black color enhances visual contrast and highlights plant foliage and animal coloration without altering water chemistry. Smooth, rounded surfaces reduce the risk of injury to fish and amphibians and make the substrate easier to clean mechanically. Supplied in a 10 kg pack, the material is convenient for creating drainage layers or decorative top layers.

Suitable for

• Aquarium hardscape and decorative gravel layers
• Terrarium flooring and hideout bases for reptiles and amphibians
• Drainage layers beneath finer substrates in planted or paludarium setups
• Rockwork stabilisation and separation layers in vivaria

Key specifications

• Grain size: 30–50 mm
• Color: natural black
• Pack weight: 10 kg
• Shape: rounded / pebbles
• Intended use: aquariums and terrariums

How to use

Rinse the pebbles thoroughly with clean water before placement to remove dust and loose fines. Spread an even layer according to the desired effect: use a thin decorative top layer for visual contrast, or a thicker bedding for rockwork stability and drainage. When used under finer substrate, place a separation layer of pebbles to improve water flow and prevent compaction. Avoid rapid temperature changes during installation and ensure that pebbles do not trap excessive air near plant roots or animal burrows.

Usage recommendations

For planted aquariums, use the pebbles primarily as a bottom drainage layer beneath nutrient-rich substrate; add suitable plant anchors or root tabs as needed. In terrariums, combine with a moisture-retaining layer and a top layer of soil or moss to create appropriate humidity gradients. Clean pebbles periodically by removing and rinsing to maintain water quality and appearance.