We visited the aquarist Láďa Chramosta and his gem – a beautiful aquarium with a school of Pterophyllum scalare. With Luďek Zicháček, we delved into the controversial topic: aquarium substrate. What grain size of sand is ideal, is the expensive Japanese substrate worth it, and what dangers do novice aquarists face? Experienced breeders answer candidly.
We are visiting an aquarist who has a beautiful aquarium at home, which is more of a gem than anything else. The entire visit is closely monitored by a local British cat, and you can tell that Mr. Láník Chramosta genuinely loves animals by the way he allows the previous crew of fish to live on. The new crew, in the form of a stunning school of Pterophyllum scalare "Rio nanay" in truly beautiful natural colors, is actually taking in the last Melanotaenia bosemani among them. The whole scene offers an incredibly calming view.
But we are here with Luňek Zicháček not just because of our admiration for his perfect aquarium, but mainly to discuss common aquaristic topics.
We are looking at the beautiful aquarium and starting with the first topic: aquarium substrate.
Both gentlemen are seasoned aquarists. That is why we decided not to visit any of the renowned breeders in the Czech Republic, but rather to visit this excellent aquarist at his home.
Aquarium substrate is a subject of frequent discussions. So let’s talk about it openly:
Sand
- Grain size of the sand – what grain size and why? Coarse sand is easier to clean, but what grain size is best for the fish that make up the stock of this aquarium?
- Impact on plant roots: What grain size is ideal for root penetration of plants and preventing root rot?
- Type of sand that has proven itself: Is it better to use river sand (rounded edges) or quartz sand (cheap, chemically inert)?
Japanese substrate
- Is it worth acquiring Japanese substrate?
Siphoning
- What is the proven method of siphoning aquarium substrate - just on the surface or thoroughly to depth?
Tips for beginners
- What threats do novice aquarists face who do not have sufficient knowledge or whom to consult?
- Why is it good for aquarists to overcome their first failures?
The next topic will come out on Thursday, November 27, 2025.
