Seachem Catappa Leaves Medium 12 Pack
Seachem Catappa Leaves Medium 12 Pack, also known as Indian Almond Leaves, are natural aquarium botanicals used to create a healthier, more natural environment for freshwater fish and shrimp. As the leaves slowly break down, they release natural tannins and humic substances that help create blackwater-style conditions and support natural behavior.
Catappa leaves are especially popular in betta tanks, shrimp aquariums, breeding setups, hospital tanks, quarantine tanks, and natural aquascapes. They can gently tint the water amber and may slightly lower pH depending on your aquarium’s water hardness, buffering capacity, and dosage.
Key Features
- Natural Indian Almond Leaves: 100% natural aquarium botanical for freshwater setups.
- Releases Tannins & Humic Substances: Helps create a natural blackwater-style aquarium environment.
- Great for Betta Tanks: Commonly used to help create a calm, tannin-rich environment for bettas.
- Shrimp Tank Friendly: Popular with Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp keepers.
- Supports Natural Behavior: Helps recreate leaf-litter habitats for many tropical fish and shrimp.
- Useful for Breeding & Hospital Tanks: A gentle botanical addition for conditioning, recovery, and fry setups.
- Freshwater Safe: Works well in planted tanks, nano tanks, blackwater aquariums, and natural aquascapes.
Product Details
- Product Name: Catappa Leaves
- Also Known As: Indian Almond Leaves
- Size: Medium
- Quantity: 12 leaves
- Type: Natural aquarium botanical
- Aquarium Type: Freshwater
- Best For: Bettas, shrimp tanks, breeding tanks, hospital tanks, quarantine tanks, blackwater aquariums, and planted aquariums
Note: Leaf size, color, and shape may vary slightly because this is a natural product.
Best For
- Betta fish tanks
- Neocaridina shrimp aquariums
- Caridina shrimp aquariums
- Nano freshwater tanks
- Breeding setups
- Hospital and quarantine tanks
- Blackwater aquariums
- Natural planted aquascapes
Directions for Use
- Rinse the leaf briefly before adding it to the aquarium.
- Use approximately 1 leaf per 5–10 gallons, depending on desired tannin level.
- Leaves may float at first and usually sink after soaking.
- Replace leaves as they break down, usually every 2–4 weeks.
- Remove excess leaf material if it begins to create too much debris.
- Monitor water parameters if your tank has low buffering capacity.
Note: Amber water coloration is normal when using Catappa leaves and comes from natural tannins released into the aquarium.
Why Use Catappa Leaves?
Catappa leaves help recreate the leaf-litter environments found in many natural freshwater habitats. Bettas, shrimp, nano fish, and many soft-water species often benefit from a calmer, more natural aquarium with tannins, botanicals, and hiding surfaces.
As the leaves soften, shrimp and small fish may also graze on biofilm that develops on the leaf surface.
Usage Tips
- Start with fewer leaves and add more gradually if you want darker tannin color.
- Use with sponge filters or gentle filtration in shrimp and betta tanks.
- Pair with botanicals, driftwood, moss, and live plants for a natural aquarium look.
- Test pH and hardness when using in sensitive setups.
- Replace leaves once they are mostly decomposed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Catappa leaves safe for shrimp?
Yes. Catappa leaves are widely used in shrimp tanks and are popular for Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp aquariums.
Will Catappa leaves lower my pH?
They may slightly lower pH depending on tank size, water hardness, and buffering capacity. Test water regularly if you keep sensitive livestock.
How often should I replace Catappa leaves?
Replace leaves once they have mostly decomposed, usually every 2–4 weeks depending on aquarium conditions.
Can I use Catappa leaves in planted tanks?
Yes. Catappa leaves are compatible with planted freshwater aquariums and natural aquascapes.
Why did my aquarium water turn amber?
Amber water is normal and comes from natural tannins released by the leaves. Many hobbyists use Catappa leaves specifically for this blackwater-style effect.
Do I need to remove the leaf after it sinks?
No. It can remain in the aquarium as it breaks down, but remove it if it creates more debris than you want or once it has mostly decomposed.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Shop Catappa Leaves Medium 12 Pack online or in-store at Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming. These natural Indian Almond Leaves are a great choice for betta tanks, shrimp aquariums, breeding setups, hospital tanks, quarantine tanks, blackwater aquariums, and natural planted freshwater displays.
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