- Sku: FNBCL125
- Vendor: Brightwell Aquatics
Brightwell FlorinBacter Clean
Brightwell FlorinBacter Clean is a concentrated blend of beneficial bacteria built specifically for planted freshwater aquariums. The strains target organic waste at the source: uneaten food, fish waste, and decaying plant matter that builds up in the substrate and clouds the water. Use it weekly to keep a tank clear, low-nutrient, and resistant to algae blooms. Browse all aquarium additives or stock up on live aquarium plants to pair with it.
Why Plant Keepers Use It
- Breaks down detritus. Heterotrophic bacteria attack fish waste, uneaten food, and rotting plant matter directly, rather than just buffering the symptoms.
- Cuts substrate sludge. Less gunk under the gravel and root tabs means cleaner water and healthier plant roots.
- Reduces water cloudiness. Tanks that haze up after feedings or rescapes clear faster with regular dosing.
- Plant- and shrimp-safe. No copper, antibiotics, or anything that would harm Caridina, Neocaridina, or sensitive stem plants.
- Pairs with your biofilter. Complements existing nitrifying bacteria, does not replace them.
How to Dose
- Shake well before each use, the bacteria settle in the bottle.
- Routine maintenance: 5 mL per 50 gallons twice per week, dosed into a high-flow area.
- Heavily stocked or planted tanks: 5 mL per 25 gallons twice per week.
- New tank or after a deep clean: 10 mL per 50 gallons daily for the first week to seed the substrate.
- Skip carbon and UV during the first 24 hours after dosing so the bacteria have a chance to establish.
Choose Your Size
| Size | Treats | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 125 mL | ~25 routine doses for a 50 gal tank | Nano and mid-size planted tanks, or testing the product |
| 250 mL | ~50 routine doses for a 50 gal tank | Larger displays, multi-tank rooms, and long-term value |
Specifications
| Brand | Brightwell Aquatics |
| Product line | Florin (freshwater) bacterial supplement |
| What it does | Breaks down organics, reduces substrate sludge, improves clarity |
| Tank type | Freshwater (planted and community) |
| Shrimp safe | Yes, including Neocaridina and Caridina |
| Frequency | Twice per week, or daily for new tanks |
| Pickup | In-store pickup only |
Recommended Pairings
- Aquaforest Water Conditioner — detoxify tap water before your weekly change
- Live aquarium plants — nature's nutrient export
- All freshwater additives
- All freshwater supplies
FAQ
Will it crash my cycle?
No. FlorinBacter Clean adds heterotrophic bacteria that break down organic waste, working alongside the nitrifying bacteria in your biofilter. It does not displace them.
Is it safe with shrimp and snails?
Yes. It contains no copper, no antibiotics, and no other ingredients that harm freshwater inverts. Safe for Neocaridina, Caridina, mystery snail alternatives (nerite, ramshorn), and other invertebrates.
Will it clear cloudy water?
It helps with bacterial bloom clarity over a few doses and steadily reduces the organic load that causes haze in the first place. For instant clarity, pair with mechanical filter media; for long-term clarity, let the bacteria do their work.
Can I overdose?
It is hard to overdose this product because the bacteria self-limit to available food. The biggest risk of heavy dosing is a temporary oxygen dip, so add an airstone if you go above label rates.
Does it work in saltwater?
No, this is the freshwater (Florin) line. Use Brightwell MicroBacter Clean for reef and saltwater tanks.
Have a question?
Brightwell FlorinBacter Clean
