Aquatic Arts Aquarium Botanicals & Leaf Litter

A thriving aquarium depends on more than equipment — it depends on balance. Our collection of aquarium-safe botanicals is curated to support natural behavior, stable water chemistry, and long-term health for shrimp, snails, fish, and aquatic plants. These are not decorations. They are tools for building habitat.

The Role of Botanicals in a Balanced Tank

Botanicals release tannins and humic substances that help build a more natural environment. Used correctly, they support water stability, promote grazing, and encourage the kind of behavior that only appears in thriving tanks.

Benefits at a glance:

• Provides cover and comfort for shy species

• Supports beneficial bacteria and biofilm

• Encourages foraging and natural behavior

• Enhances breeding conditions and coloration

• Helps create a calmer, more balanced setup

Who Benefits Most From Botanicals

This collection is ideal for aquarists who value natural systems and purposeful aquarium design:

• Shrimp keepers focused on biofilm and microfauna

• Soft-water species such as rasboras and gouramis

• Blackwater and rainforest-style aquascapes

• Breeding setups and fry grow-outs

• Tanks built around habitat enrichment and balance

Choosing the Right Botanical

Biofilm Support for Shrimp
Start with: Indian Almond Leaves or Alder Cones

Soft-Water & Rainforest-Style Tanks
Bark and wood varieties

Blackwater / Tannin-Rich Environments
Catappa Leaves or tea-style blends

Natural Hiding Zones
Seed pods and husks

Tip: Pair botanicals with Aquatic Arts Root Tabs for planted tanks to support a thriving substrate and long-term plant health.

Starting Slowly – Let the Habitat Build

Botanicals work gradually and naturally. Most aquarists begin with:

• 1 leaf per gallon

• 2–5 alder cones per 10 gallons

• 1 botanical pod per small aquarium

Allow botanicals to soften and sink naturally. A healthy reaction typically begins within 24–72 hours.

Curated Botanical Packs

Each blend mirrors common freshwater environments and is built with balance, biofilm, and simplicity in mind:

• Leaf Starter Packs – biofilm and tannins

• Habitat Blends – substrate enrichment and shelter

• Shelter Packs – ideal for shrimp and dwarf fish

• Botanical Breeder Combo Pack – a favorite among shrimp breeders

These packs are designed to remove guesswork and reflect real freshwater ecosystems.

Explore Related Collections

• Aquatic Arts Live Aquarium Plants

• Aquatic Arts Shrimp & Invertebrates

• Aquatic Arts Root Tabs & Plant Support
  

Common Questions

Q: Are botanicals safe for shrimp and snails?
Yes. Many shrimp and snails thrive on the biofilm that forms on each surface.

Q: Do botanicals change water color?
A light tea tint is normal and often preferred by soft-water species.

Q: Should they be boiled first?
Boiling speeds up sinking but shortens lifespan. Rinsing preserves longevity and works well.

Q: Can they be used in hard water?
Yes. Start small and let the aquarium adjust; balance develops over time.

Where Balance Becomes Habitat

When aquariums are designed with purpose, behavior changes naturally. Botanicals help establish that balance—creating an environment where life doesn’t just exist, but thrives.

Best fishes, Aquatic Arts.