Sloping gravel/substrate

[Lady Cougrrr]

In every book that I have read about setting up an aquarium, it recommends sloping the gravel/substrate up higher on the sides and rear of the tank than in the front to better support the plant roots at the back, and also to all the waste to fall to the front for easier siphoning.

I have artificial plants, so I don't need to worry about supporting them, but does sloping the gravel really make cleaning easier? If it does, I'll definately want to redecorate when I do the large water change at the end of my fishless cycle.

What is everyone's experience with this?

 

[missileman]

I tried to slope but after a few water changes and vacuums it really doesn't stay that way.

 

[Roberz00]

mine didnt stay sloped either. 3 cleanings and all was level again between me and the pleco moving the rocks.

 

[Lady Cougrrr]

LOL I wondered about how the gravel could stay sloped with siphoning and bottom critters. I'll stick to leaving it flat. Thanks, guys!