What is the best substrate for a planted aquarium?
It's usually best to use nutrient-rich planted substrates, also called aquasoils. They feed rooted plants and hold nutrients well. Plan to have a layer of small grains two to three inches thick to let water circulate. If you choose inert sand or gravel, use root tabs or fertilizer to support growth.
What can make an aquarium substrate unsafe for fish?
Substrates that are unsafe include those with sharp or rough edges that can damage fish, those not labeled "aquarium safe" that may have harmful chemicals, or those that can change pH and hardness too much. There are also risks from very small grains that could be swallowed or deeply packed beds that can hold toxic gas. Pick smooth, aquarium-safe materials that support your target water chemistry, rinse them thoroughly before adding them, and maintain the bed to keep it from getting too packed down.