Transform Your Aquarium with Fluval Plant & Shrimp Stratum

Fluval Plant & Shrimp Stratum is a high-performance, mineral-rich aquarium substrate crafted from natural volcanic soil collected from the hills of Mount Aso in Japan. This premium substrate is engineered specifically for beginners and experienced aquarists who want thriving aquatic plants and healthy shrimp colonies without complex maintenance.

Why Choose Fluval Stratum?

🌱 Explosive Plant Growth

Fluval Stratum is packed with essential nutrients, minerals, and trace elements that fuel vigorous plant development. Its high CEC (Cation Exchange Capacity) allows it to absorb and store nutrients, releasing them gradually directly at the plant roots for consistent, lush growth—even without CO₂ injection or liquid fertilizers.

🦐 Perfect for Shrimp Colonies

The lightweight, porous granules create hidden spaces that protect newborn shrimp from predation, making it the ideal substrate for establishing a thriving shrimp colony.

🔬 Supports Beneficial Bacteria

Stratum’s non-compacting, highly porous structure provides an expansive surface area for nitrifying bacteria to colonize. This accelerates aquarium cycling and improves biological water quality by reducing toxic ammonia levels.

⚖️ Natural pH Regulation

The substrate naturally promotes a neutral to mildly acidic pH (around 6.5–7.0), creating optimal conditions for most freshwater plants, dwarf cichlids, tetras, and shrimp species.

💧 Crystal-Clear Water

Unlike many soil substrates, Fluval Stratum will not discolor your water. It even helps control organic discoloration caused by natural driftwood, keeping your aquarium visually stunning.

🚫 Non-Compacting Formula

The light, airy granules prevent soil compaction, allowing oxygen to reach plant roots and facilitating strong root development—critical for long-term plant health.

Ideal For Beginners

New to the aquarium hobby? Fluval Stratum makes starting your planted tank easier:

• No extra fertilizers needed for many plant species in the first year

• Simplifies cycling by hosting beneficial bacteria from day one

• Forgiving pH buffer reduces stress on sensitive fish and shrimp

• Ready to use – just rinse lightly and add to your tank

Available Sizes

Choose the size that fits your tank:

All sizes deliver the same premium quality volcanic soil.

How to Use

1. Rinse lightly until water runs mostly clear (avoid over-rinsing to preserve nutrients).

2. Add 2–3 inches of substrate to your aquarium bottom.

3. Plant your aquatic plants directly into the Stratum.

4. Fill gently with water using a plate to prevent disturbing the substrate.

5. Cycle your tank as normal—beneficial bacteria will colonize rapidly.

Specifications