- Sku: 12693
- Vendor: Fluval
Fluval Plant & Shrimp Stratum
Fluval Plant & Shrimp Stratum is a natural volcanic soil collected from the mineral-rich foothills of the Mount Aso volcano in Japan, made for planted and shrimp aquariums. Its porous granules let plant roots spread and feed easily, host colonies of beneficial nitrifying bacteria, and hold a neutral to slightly acidic pH that most tropical plants, fish, and shrimp prefer. Pair it with our live plants and freshwater shrimp to build a thriving aquascape.
Features
- Japanese volcanic soil encourages strong plant growth, with roots that penetrate and spread to reach key nutrients
- Porous structure allows rapid colonization of beneficial nitrifying bacteria
- Supports a neutral to slightly acidic pH, ideal for planted tanks, tropical fish, and shrimp
- Gives newborn shrimp a refuge from predators until they are large enough to emerge
- Will not discolor water and helps control organic discoloration when driftwood is present
- For use in freshwater aquariums
Choose Your Size
| Size | Weight | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.4 lb | 2 kg | Nano and small planted or shrimp tanks | $14.99 |
| 8.8 lb | 4 kg | Small to mid-size aquascapes | $27.99 |
| 17.6 lb | 8 kg | Larger display planted tanks | $50.99 |
How to Use
Rinse gently to reduce initial cloudiness, then add a bed of about 2 to 3 inches and fill the tank slowly over a plate or bag to keep the water clear. Give the tank time to settle and cycle before adding sensitive shrimp or fish. Fluval suggests estimating how much you need by multiplying tank length x width x desired depth (in cm) and dividing by 1000 to get the weight in kilograms.
Specifications
| Brand | Fluval |
|---|---|
| Product | Plant & Shrimp Stratum |
| Type | Volcanic soil planted substrate |
| Source | Mount Aso volcano, Japan |
| pH influence | Neutral to slightly acidic |
| Sizes | 4.4 lb (2 kg), 8.8 lb (4 kg), 17.6 lb (8 kg) |
| Best for | Freshwater planted and shrimp aquariums |
Recommended Pairings
- Live aquarium plants to root into the stratum
- Freshwater shrimp that shelter and breed in the granules
- Freshwater supplies like CO2, plant lighting, and ferts
FAQ
Which size do I need? As a rough guide, multiply your tank length x width x the substrate depth you want (all in cm) and divide by 1000 for the kilograms needed. Nano tanks usually take the 4.4 lb bag, while larger display tanks may need the 17.6 lb bag or more.
Should I rinse it first? A gentle rinse reduces the light cloudiness that can appear at first. Fill the tank slowly and any haze clears within a day or two as the substrate settles.
Is it safe for shrimp? Yes. It is designed for shrimp and even shelters newborn shrimp. Let the tank settle and cycle before adding sensitive species.
Will it change my pH? It helps hold a neutral to slightly acidic range that suits most planted-tank plants, tropical fish, and shrimp.
Have a question?
Fluval Plant & Shrimp Stratum
