UNS Controbase 2L

A nutrient rich base layer that goes under your aquasoil, not on top of it. UNS Controbase is pumice stone infused with slow releasing nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus and trace elements. It feeds heavy root feeders from below and helps regulate excess nutrients, while the large 6 to 8 mm granules keep water moving through the bed so beneficial bacteria have somewhere to live.

It arrives already portioned into mesh filter bags, so you are not shovelling loose pumice. The 2L contains four 0.5L mesh bags and UNS rates it for aquariums up to 20 gallons (75 L), their 60U size.

Features

• Pre-bagged in mesh filter bags, so it lifts out again cleanly and can be reused
• Stack the bags to build slopes and terraces
• 6 to 8 mm granules improve flow and oxygenation through the substrate bed
• Slow release N, P, K and trace elements for heavy root feeders
• UNS states the nutrients last approximately three months

How to Use It

UNS's own sequence:

1. Place the bags into the aquarium away from the glass panels, so they stay hidden
2. Stack the remaining bags where you want elevation
3. Top with a planted aquarium substrate. UNS recommends Controsoil
4. Plant

• Do not wash it. It goes in as it comes
• Spread it evenly beneath your soil, sand or gravel
• Cover it with at least 2 inches (5 cm) of soil, sand or gravel. UNS warns the water will go cloudy if Controbase is left uncovered
• Leave the mesh bags on. They are the point

Specifications

Pair It With

• UNS Controsoil on top, which is what UNS recommends for heavily planted tanks with stem plants or heavy root feeders such as Echinodorus and Cryptocoryne
• Browse all freshwater and our live plants

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this replace my aquasoil?
No. Controbase is a base layer that sits underneath. You still need a planted substrate on top, at least 2 inches of it.

Do I take it out of the mesh bags?
No. Leave them bagged. That is what lets you lift the base layer out later without tearing the whole scape apart.

How many bags do I need?
The 2L covers aquariums up to about 20 gallons. Larger tanks take more, and UNS also makes an 8L with sixteen mesh bags.

Can I use it in a saltwater or brackish tank?
No. UNS states Controbase is not compatible with brackish or marine aquariums.

What happens after the nutrients run out?
UNS puts the nutrient life at roughly three months. The pumice itself keeps working as a porous, well oxygenated base and a home for bacteria after that, and you can switch to root tabs or a liquid fertilizer.