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Fluval 12696 Natural Mineral-Rich Volcanic Soil Bio Stratum for Planted Tanks, 4.4 lbs. - Promotes Healthy Plant Development, Growth, and Color

  • Based on 292 reviews
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Availability: In Stock.
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Arrives Monday, Jun 3
Order within 17 hours and 50 minutes
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Color: Bio-Stratum


Size: 4.4 Pound (Pack of 1)


Style: Substrate


Features

  • Acting as an additional source of filtration, Bio-Stratums porous structure promotes biological activity for improved water quality
  • Rapidly reduces ammonia levels to help stabilize water conditions in new aquariums
  • Promotes healthy plant development, vigorous growth and vibrant colors; contains a powerful mix of nutrients, minerals and trace elements exclusively available to plants
  • Lightweight powder granules are non-compacting, allowing the finest and more delicate roots to easily penetrate and spread throughout the porous substrate
  • Supports a neutral to slightly acidic pH ideal for live plants as well as fish and shrimp; suitable for use in smaller freshwater aquariums or as a top layer in larger tanks

Product Dimensions: 16.93 x 12.6 x 0.2 inches


Item Weight: 4.4 pounds


Manufacturer: Rolf C. Hagen (USA) Corp.


Item model number: 12696


Specific instructions for use: Indoor


Assembly required: No


Batteries required: No


Included Components: All items listed in description.


Frequently asked questions

If you place your order now, the estimated arrival date for this product is: Monday, Jun 3

Yes, absolutely! You may return this product for a full refund within 30 days of receiving it.

To initiate a return, please visit our Returns Center.

View our full returns policy here.

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Top Amazon Reviews


  • Aqua Paradise with Fluval Bio Stratum - Nurturing Aquatic Plant Growth
Color: Bio-Stratum Size: 4.4 Pound (Pack of 1) Style: Substrate
I recently introduced Fluval Bio Stratum Aquarium Gravel Substrate into my underwater world, and the transformation it brought to my aquarium has been nothing short of remarkable. Here's why I believe this substrate is a game-changer for any aquatic plant enthusiast: **1. Optimal Plant Growth:** The Fluval Bio Stratum is specifically designed to promote aquatic plant growth. Its unique composition provides essential nutrients that encourage lush, vibrant plants, turning your aquarium into a thriving underwater garden. **2. Natural Appearance:** This substrate mimics the look and texture of natural riverbeds, creating a visually stunning and authentic aquatic environment. It enhances the aesthetics of the aquarium, making it a true centerpiece in any room. **3. pH Buffering:** Fluval Bio Stratum acts as a pH buffer, helping to maintain stable and ideal water conditions for your aquatic plants and fish. It prevents rapid fluctuations in pH levels, which can stress your aquatic inhabitants. **4. Nutrient-Rich:** The substrate is nutrient-rich, ensuring that your plants receive the essential minerals they need for healthy growth. It significantly reduces the need for additional fertilizers, simplifying your maintenance routine. **5. Ideal Granule Size:** The granule size is perfect for promoting strong root development in aquatic plants. It allows roots to penetrate easily, anchoring the plants securely and facilitating nutrient uptake. **6. Easy to Use:** Setting up the Fluval Bio Stratum is straightforward. It doesn't require any special skills or equipment. Just rinse it thoroughly before adding it to your aquarium, and you're all set. **7. Long-Lasting:** This substrate is built to last, ensuring that your investment pays off over time. It doesn't break down or disintegrate, maintaining its structural integrity for the long haul. **8. Ideal Weight:** The 4.4 lb bag is an ideal size for smaller to medium-sized aquariums. It provides enough substrate to cover the bottom evenly and create a lush underwater landscape. In conclusion, Fluval Bio Stratum Aquarium Gravel Substrate is a true gem for aquarists passionate about aquatic plant growth and maintaining a beautiful, balanced aquarium. Its ability to nurture plant health, create a stunning aquatic environment, and simplify water maintenance makes it a must-have substrate for any planted aquarium. Whether you're a seasoned hobbyist or just starting, this substrate can help you create a thriving and visually appealing aquatic world that you and your aquatic inhabitants will enjoy. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on August 31, 2023 by Morgan

  • “Boost for Freshwater Aquariums”
Color: Bio-Stratum Size: 4.4 Pound (Pack of 1) Style: Substrate
The Fluval 12696 Natural Mineral-Rich Volcanic Soil has proven to be an excellent substrate choice for my freshwater aquariums, particularly those housing aquatic plants and shrimp. This substrate has consistently yielded impressive results, with my plants thriving and growing at an accelerated rate. One of the key advantages of this volcanic soil is its versatility. It can be either buried in the substrate or left exposed, and it continues to deliver positive benefits either way. This flexibility is especially convenient for aquarists with varying preferences in aquascape design. Furthermore, the rich mineral content of this substrate is a notable advantage. It provides essential nutrients that promote robust plant growth, ensuring that aquatic flora remains healthy and vibrant. In my experience, this has led to lush and flourishing underwater landscapes. For shrimp enthusiasts, it’s crucial to note that the Fluval 12696 substrate is suitable for shrimp aquariums, particularly for caridina shrimp. However, a prudent practice is to replace this substrate after approximately one year of use. Doing so can contribute significantly to the overall health and well-being of your shrimp population. In summary, Fluval 12696 Natural Mineral-Rich Volcanic Soil has proven itself as an outstanding choice for freshwater aquariums, especially those featuring aquatic plants and shrimp. Its adaptability, mineral-rich composition, and the positive impact on plant growth make it a valuable addition to any aquarist’s toolkit. Just remember to schedule substrate replacement every year for the best results in your shrimp tanks. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on October 1, 2023 by Jorge Jorge

  • Greatest products
Color: Bio-Stratum Size: 4.4 Pound (Pack of 1) Style: Substrate
Works great for my 2 tanks guppies and betta, is does reducing ammonia, nitrate and nitrites, no bad smells from the tank keep my water always fresh, my fishs are really happy, I don't have to do water changes or clean the tank, plants in the tank do all these works, all I have to do is filling water for the tank. Now I'm planning use these for my next 20 gallons tank, I love this bio stratum ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on September 9, 2023 by Christina Christina

  • My Plants Love It
Color: Bio-Stratum Size: 4.4 Pound (Pack of 1) Style: Substrate
It's pricey but I can't complain about the results. My plants are growing well. The 4.4lb bag is perfect for a five gallon tank. I would double this for a ten gallon. It's very lightweight and loose. You will want weights when you plant in it. I forgot to get some and it was a very frustrating experience. Didn't cloud the water or need any sort of rinse. Tank cycled quickly without fish or adding ammonia. Got an algae bloom about a week in, but it only lasted a few days and went away on its own. I'm docking it 1 star for price. After all, it's just clay dirt pellets, not spice melange from Arakkis. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on August 23, 2023 by Jesus Built My Hotrod

  • Excellent for propagating my monsteras and other plants
Color: Bio-Stratum Size: 4.4 Pound (Pack of 1) Style: Substrate
Makes propagation a breeze and I can be confident that the nodes have been provided every possible chance to grow.
Reviewed in the United States on October 5, 2023 by LRD342 LRD342

  • Aquatic Plants are Flourishing!
Color: Bio-Stratum Size: 4.4 Pound (Pack of 1) Style: Substrate
Planted my Fluval aquarium plants in a couple inches of this and they grew so fast and healthy i had to thin them out in just a couple of months. I had two types of Val and some Red Ludwigia that were so thick i used trimmings to plant a second 15 gallon Fluval Flex!
Reviewed in the United States on August 8, 2023 by Susan

  • Fluval Bio Stratum
Color: Bio-Stratum Size: 4.4 Pound (Pack of 1) Style: Substrate
I am using this to propagate plants.
Reviewed in the United States on August 13, 2023 by Kristi S.

  • Love this product
Color: Bio-Stratum Size: 4.4 Pound (Pack of 1) Style: Substrate
The media could not be loaded. I use both formulas the red for my shrimp tank and blue for my betta. What I have found to work best to prevent the dust cloud is using a shifter and shifting small portions dry. Rinsing with water does not eliminate the dust. You can see I have no haze and the water is crystal clear right after filling my tank. I lay the stratum than set my tank up while it’s dry so I can see how I want the landscape. Than I take a ziplock bag blow just a little air in it and close it up like a balloon. I lay the bag in the tank than start filling it up. This keeps ensures the stratum and plants don’t go flying everywhere. Even with a few adjustments after fill up there is no dust kick up. Shifting dry also saves your filter from having to filter black sut. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on April 22, 2023 by Charlotte Jones Charlotte Jones

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