aquarium substrate

[biocalluna]

I have two betta fish, each with their own 5.5 gallon tank. Currently I'm using gravel as the substrate. However, I don't have the best back and cleaning gravel is difficult, especially with the algae the tanks as they near cleaning time.
I'm looking for a substrate that's easier to clean but still looks natural and provides the biofiltration and habitat for good bacteria that the tank needs.

Does anyone have any suggestions?

 

[Toad]

Algae usually means too much light/food. Sand is pretty easy to clean ime, a lot of stuff just lays on the top on it, so easy to suck up.

 

[flitabout]

Either sand or if you want you could go really easy and just go bare bottom.