Peat

Spongy or fibrous material resulting from the anaerobic decomposition of plants. Brown to black, the peat gives water an amber color at the same time as it acidifies it. The humic substances it contains seem beneficial for fish from the "brown waters" of forest watercourses.

Peat is a type of substrate used in aquariums to provide a solid and stable base to aquatic plants, while helping to maintain the chemical balance of water. It is generally made from sphagnum, a floating plant that naturally grows in marshes and ponds.

The peat is very popular in the aquariophilia because it is very permeable and retains humidity well, which makes it ideal for aquatic plants which need a lot of water and nutrients. It is also quite light, which makes it easy to handle and set up in the aquarium.

There are different types of peat on the market, such as black sphagnum peat, red sphagnum peat and white sphagnum peat. Each of these types of peat has its own characteristics and can be used in different ways in the aquarium.

Black sphagnum peat is most commonly used in the aquarophilia because it is very permeable and retains humidity well. It is also very easy to find and affordable. However, it tends to decompose more quickly than other types of peat and can therefore require a more frequent replacement.

Red sphagnum peat is a little denser and heavier than black sphagnum peat, which makes it ideal for aquatic plants with deep roots. It is also more resistant to decomposition and can therefore last longer in the aquarium. However, it is generally more expensive than black sphagnum peat.

The white sphagnum peat is the lightest and most permeable of all peat. It is ideal for aquatic plants that need a lot of water and nutrients, but it is also very fragile and can easily disintegrate. It is generally used as a substrate for floating plants and is not recommended for deep root plants.

In general, peat is an excellent choice of substrate for freshwater aquariums, because it provides a solid and stable base for aquatic plants while helping to maintain the chemical balance of water. However, it is important to choose the type of peat that best suits your plants and your aquarium. Also make sure to carefully rinse the peat before using it to eliminate all impurities and decaying materials that could affect water quality. It is also recommended to regularly change peat to maintain a healthy environment conducive to the growth of aquatic plants.