Fluval Stratum 4.4 lb – Plant & Shrimp Substrate

Fluval Stratum 4.4 lb is an active volcanic soil substrate made for freshwater planted aquariums, shrimp tanks, nano tanks, and aquascaping layouts. Its dark, porous granules provide a natural-looking base for plants, shrimp, and small freshwater fish.

This substrate is commonly used in planted aquariums where aquarists want a soil-style base that can support rooted plants and help buffer water toward a slightly acidic pH. Fluval 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, nano tanks, and soft-water setups

Product Information

• Brand: Fluval
• Product: Stratum Plant & Shrimp Substrate
• Weight: 4.4 lb / 2 kg
• Substrate Type: Active volcanic soil
• Color: Dark brown to black
• Use: Freshwater aquariums only
• Best For: Planted aquariums, shrimp tanks, nano aquariums, and aquascaping setups

Best Uses

• Freshwater planted aquariums
• Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp tanks
• Nano aquariums
• Small aquascaping layouts
• Soft-water community aquariums
• Crypts, swords, mosses, stem plants, and carpeting plants
• Small tanks where a dark planted substrate is desired

How to Use

Add Fluval 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. 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 and aquarium setup
• 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 Stratum used for?
Fluval Stratum is used as a soil-style substrate for planted freshwater aquariums, shrimp tanks, nano aquariums, and aquascaping layouts.

Does Fluval Stratum affect water parameters?
Yes. Active soil substrates like Fluval 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.

Is Fluval 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.

Can Fluval Stratum be used in community aquariums?
Yes, it can be used in freshwater community aquariums with fish that are compatible with the water parameters created by the substrate.

Should I rinse Fluval 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 the aquarium footprint and desired substrate depth. A 4.4 lb bag is commonly used for nano tanks, shrimp tanks, or small planted aquariums.

How long does Fluval 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 Stratum 4.4 lb is an active volcanic soil substrate for planted freshwater aquariums, shrimp tanks, nano aquariums, and aquascaping 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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