Fluval Bio-Stratum 8.8 lb – Plant & Shrimp Substrate
Fluval Bio-Stratum 8.8 lb is an active volcanic soil substrate made for planted freshwater aquariums, shrimp tanks, and aquascaping layouts. Its porous granules provide surface area for beneficial bacteria while helping create a natural-looking dark substrate base.
This substrate is commonly used in planted tanks and freshwater shrimp setups where aquarists want a soil-style substrate that can support rooted plants and help buffer water toward a slightly acidic pH. Fluval Bio-Stratum is intended for freshwater aquariums only.
Key Features
- Active Volcanic Soil: Soil-style substrate for planted freshwater aquariums and shrimp tanks
- 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
- Supports Slightly Acidic Water: Can help buffer water toward a lower pH depending on aquarium conditions
- 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: 8.8 lb / 4 kg
- Substrate Type: Active volcanic soil
- Color: Dark brown to black
- Use: Freshwater aquariums only
- Best For: Planted aquariums, shrimp tanks, aquascapes, and soft-water freshwater setups
Best Uses
- Planted freshwater aquariums
- Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp tanks
- Aquascaping layouts
- Soft-water community aquariums
- Stem plant aquariums
- Crypts, swords, mosses, and carpeting plants
- Small to medium aquarium setups depending on substrate depth
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 1.5–3 inches, depending on the aquarium size, plant choices, and aquascape layout. Heavier 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 in the aquascape
- Use deeper areas for root-feeding 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 and aquarium setup
- Cycle the aquarium before adding sensitive livestock
- Monitor pH, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, GH, and KH as needed
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, aquascapes, and soft-water setups.
What is the difference between Fluval Bio-Stratum and 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, tank 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 an 8.8 lb bag cover?
Coverage depends on aquarium footprint and desired depth. An 8.8 lb bag is commonly used for smaller planted tanks or shrimp setups, often around 10–20 gallons depending on substrate depth.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Fluval Bio-Stratum 8.8 lb is an active volcanic soil substrate for planted freshwater aquariums, shrimp tanks, aquascapes, and soft-water 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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