Here are a few reasons why:
- Impurities: Garden soil can contain undesirable substances like chemicals, pesticides, and fertilizers that could harm the delicate ecosystem of your aquarium.
- Organisms: Garden soil may contain a variety of organisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and even small invertebrates, which can be harmful to aquarium inhabitants.
- Cloudiness: Garden soil particles are typically larger and heavier than aquarium substrate, causing the water to become cloudy and murky.
- Filtration: The soil particles can clog and damage your aquarium filter, reducing its efficiency.
Instead of garden soil, it's better to choose substrates specifically designed for aquariums, such as sand, gravel, or specialized substrates like AquaSoil. These substrates are inert, meaning they won't introduce harmful substances into the water, and they are designed to provide a suitable environment for aquarium plants and beneficial bacteria.