Fluval Bio-Stratum 4.4 lb – Plant & Shrimp Substrate
Fluval Bio-Stratum 4.4 lb is an active volcanic soil substrate made for freshwater planted aquariums, shrimp tanks, nano aquariums, and aquascaping layouts. Its dark, porous granules provide a natural-looking base while offering surface area for beneficial bacteria.
This smaller 4.4 lb bag is useful for nano tanks, shrimp aquariums, small planted setups, and compact aquascapes. Fluval Bio-Stratum can help buffer water toward a slightly acidic pH depending on source water, aquarium setup, and maintenance routine.
Key Features
- Active Volcanic Soil: Soil-style substrate for planted freshwater aquariums and shrimp tanks
- 4.4 lb Bag: Useful size for nano aquariums, shrimp tanks, and small planted layouts
- Dark Natural Appearance: Dark brown to black granules help highlight plants, shrimp, and fish
- Porous Granules: Provides surface area for beneficial bacteria in the aquarium
- Good for Rooted Plants: Useful for many common aquarium plants and aquascaping layouts
- Freshwater Use Only: Intended for freshwater planted aquariums, shrimp tanks, and soft-water setups
Product Information
- Brand: Fluval
- Product: Bio-Stratum Plant & Shrimp Substrate
- Weight: 4.4 lb / 2 kg
- Substrate Type: Active volcanic soil
- Color: Dark brown to black
- Aquarium Type: Freshwater
- Best For: Nano planted aquariums, shrimp tanks, aquascapes, and soft-water freshwater setups
Best Uses
- Nano planted aquariums
- Freshwater shrimp tanks
- Small aquascaping layouts
- Soft-water community aquariums
- Crypts, stem plants, mosses, and carpeting plants
- Small tanks where a dark planted substrate is desired
How to Use
Add Fluval Bio-Stratum directly to the aquarium according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Do not rinse before use unless the product label states otherwise, as rinsing may break down the granules and remove fine material intended for the substrate.
A common planted aquarium substrate depth is around 1.5–2.5 inches for smaller tanks, depending on the aquarium footprint, plant choices, and aquascape layout. Heavy root-feeding plants may still benefit from root tabs or additional plant nutrition over time.
Aquascaping Tips
- Slope the substrate from front to back to create depth
- Use deeper areas for rooted plants
- Plant gently to avoid crushing the granules
- Fill the aquarium slowly to reduce cloudiness
- Use a plate, plastic bag, or diffuser when adding water
- Test water parameters regularly, especially in shrimp tanks
- Follow manufacturer guidance for setup, cycling, and maintenance
Important Aquarium Notes
- Use in freshwater aquariums only
- Do not use with fish or shrimp that require hard, high-pH water without confirming compatibility
- Water parameter effects can vary based on source water, KH, tank setup, and maintenance routine
- Cycle the aquarium before adding sensitive livestock
- Monitor pH, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, GH, and KH as needed
- Substrate nutrient performance can vary based on plant load, maintenance, and aquarium conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fluval Bio-Stratum used for?
Fluval Bio-Stratum is used as a soil-style substrate for planted freshwater aquariums, shrimp tanks, nano aquariums, and aquascaping layouts.
How is Fluval Bio-Stratum different from regular Fluval Stratum?
Bio-Stratum is designed with a focus on supporting beneficial bacteria growth in addition to planted aquarium and shrimp tank use. Follow the product label for exact manufacturer details.
Is Fluval Bio-Stratum good for shrimp tanks?
Yes, it is commonly used in freshwater shrimp aquariums. Always confirm the water parameters match the shrimp species you plan to keep and monitor the tank during cycling.
Does Fluval Bio-Stratum affect pH?
Yes. Active soil substrates like Bio-Stratum can help buffer water toward a slightly acidic pH. The exact effect can vary depending on source water, KH, aquarium setup, and maintenance routine.
Should I rinse Fluval Bio-Stratum before use?
No. Do not rinse unless the manufacturer’s instructions say otherwise. Add it carefully and fill the aquarium slowly to help reduce cloudiness.
How much area does a 4.4 lb bag cover?
Coverage depends on aquarium footprint and desired substrate depth. A 4.4 lb bag is commonly used for nano tanks or small planted aquariums, often around 5–10 gallons depending on substrate depth and layout.
How long does Fluval Bio-Stratum last?
Substrate performance can vary depending on plant load, water source, maintenance routine, and aquarium setup. Over time, additional plant nutrition such as root tabs or liquid fertilizer may be needed.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Fluval Bio-Stratum 4.4 lb is an active volcanic soil substrate for nano planted aquariums, shrimp tanks, aquascapes, and soft-water freshwater setups. Visit Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to shop Fluval substrates, planted aquarium supplies, shrimp tank products, aquascaping tools, live plants, fertilizers, filters, and aquarium care essentials.
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