CaribSea Super Naturals Aquascapes Crystal River – 40 lb
CaribSea Super Naturals Aquascapes Crystal River 40 lb is a fine, natural-looking aquarium substrate designed to create a bright, clean freshwater aquascape.
Its smooth, light-colored grains provide a natural riverbed appearance that works especially well in community aquariums, planted tanks, shrimp setups, and aquariums featuring bottom-dwelling fish.
Key Features
- 40 lb bag
- Fine, light-colored natural aquarium substrate
- Part of the CaribSea Super Naturals Aquascapes line
- Typical grain size approximately 0.5–1.0 mm
- Average density approximately 95 lb per cubic foot
- All-natural material
- No paints, dyes, or artificial coatings
- Smooth, fish-friendly grains
- Ideal for freshwater aquariums and aquascapes
- Includes a premeasured beneficial-bacteria dose to help begin the cycling process
Product Information
- Brand: CaribSea
- Product Line: Super Naturals Aquascapes
- Style: Crystal River
- Weight: 40 lb
- Item Number: 00870
- UPC: 008479008701
- Typical Grain Size: 0.5–1.0 mm
- Average Density: Approximately 95 lb/ft³
- Primary Use: Freshwater aquarium substrate
Natural Light-Colored Appearance
Crystal River provides a soft, bright substrate color that creates a clean and natural-looking aquarium floor.
The lighter tone works especially well with:
- Colorful tropical fish
- Dark driftwood
- Green and red live plants
- Natural stone
- Shrimp displays
- River-style and natural aquascapes
Fine, Smooth Grains
Crystal River has a typical grain size of approximately 0.5–1.0 mm, giving it a fine sand-like appearance.
CaribSea describes the Super Naturals Aquascapes line as having smooth, fish-friendly grains, making Crystal River especially attractive for aquariums with fish that spend time near or on the substrate.
Great for Bottom-Dwelling Fish
The smooth, fine substrate can work well for many bottom-oriented freshwater species when their other care requirements are met.
Potential inhabitants include:
- Corydoras catfish
- Kuhli loaches
- Small freshwater gobies
- Freshwater shrimp
- Other peaceful bottom-dwelling fish
Beneficial Bacteria Included
CaribSea Super Naturals Aquascapes includes a premeasured beneficial-bacteria dose intended to help start the aquarium cycling process.
This can help begin the establishment of biological filtration, but the aquarium should still be properly cycled and monitored for ammonia and nitrite before being considered fully established.
Ideal for Freshwater Aquascaping
Crystal River is a versatile choice for many freshwater setups, including:
- Community aquariums
- Planted aquariums
- Shrimp tanks
- Betta aquariums
- Corydoras displays
- Natural river-style aquascapes
- Driftwood and rock-based layouts
- Showpiece freshwater aquariums
Use With Live Plants
Crystal River can be used successfully in planted aquariums and provides an attractive base for rooted aquarium plants.
Because it is primarily a decorative substrate rather than a nutrient-rich aquasoil, heavy root-feeding plants may benefit from supplemental root tabs or other appropriate aquarium plant fertilizers.
How Much Substrate Do I Need?
The amount of substrate required depends on the aquarium footprint and desired depth.
A shallower layer may be sufficient for a decorative setup, while planted tanks and heavily aquascaped systems may require a deeper substrate bed.
Multiple 40 lb bags may be needed for larger aquariums.
Setup and Use
- Follow the preparation instructions provided on the package.
- Spread the substrate evenly across the aquarium bottom.
- Create slopes or contours as desired for the aquascape.
- Add driftwood, rocks, plants, and décor before filling when practical.
- Fill the aquarium slowly to minimize disturbing the fine substrate.
- Add the included beneficial-bacteria treatment according to package directions.
- Monitor ammonia and nitrite while the aquarium cycles.
Natural, Uncoated Aquarium Substrate
CaribSea states that Super Naturals Aquascapes substrates contain no paints, dyes, or coatings.
The naturally colored grains provide a more realistic appearance compared with artificially colored aquarium gravel.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much substrate is in the bag?
This package contains 40 pounds of CaribSea Super Naturals Crystal River substrate.
What size are the grains?
CaribSea lists Crystal River at approximately 0.5–1.0 mm.
Is Crystal River painted or dyed?
No. CaribSea states that Super Naturals Aquascapes substrates contain no paints, dyes, or artificial coatings.
Does it include beneficial bacteria?
Yes. Each bag includes a premeasured beneficial-bacteria dose to help begin the aquarium cycling process.
Can Crystal River be used in a planted aquarium?
Yes. It can be used in planted aquariums. Root-feeding plants may benefit from root tabs or other plant fertilizers.
Is it suitable for Corydoras?
Its smooth, fine grain size makes it a good substrate choice for many Corydoras setups when the aquarium is otherwise appropriately maintained.
Can it be used in shrimp tanks?
Yes. Crystal River can be used in freshwater shrimp aquariums when water parameters are appropriate for the shrimp species.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
CaribSea Super Naturals Aquascapes Crystal River 40 lb is available from Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, when in stock.
Eligible dry goods are available for shipping.
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