Fluval Stratum's inherent properties will help support a neutral to slightly acidic pH,
ideal for most plant species and species of tropical fish or shrimp normally kept in planted aquariums
.
How do I put fluval stratum in my aquarium?
Is fluval stratum an active substrate?
What do you put under fluval stratum?
It doesn't contain much in terms of nutrients for plants and when you're planting or replanting, it's going to end up messy. Because, as others have stated,
sand will sink beneath the Stratum
.
Can I put fluval stratum over gravel?
If your goal is to be able to deep vacuum the tank, then
put the plants in containers of good soil (The Fluval stratum) and surround them with gravel
. Gravel on top of the containers can hide the finer material so fish do not dig it out, and hide it from sight.
Does fluval stratum cause ammonia spike?
I was wondering if fluval stratum can cause a ammonia spike?
Yes
. Nutrient-rich substrates like this release ammonia. Fluval's product has been changed/improved through the years to include more nutrients for plants.
How thick should Fluval Stratum be?
A depth of
at least 2-inches
is recommended for both plants and baby shrimp to stay well. An 8.8 lb. or 17.6 lb.
How long is Fluval Stratum good for?
Fluval Stratum lasts between
2 to 3 years
in planted tanks and shrimps aquariums with careful handling. Although the pellets do breakdown, it happens slowly over its entire lifespan, especially with minimal disturbances. Bottom sifting fish like cory can accelerate the substrate's deterioration.
Do I need root tabs with Fluval Stratum?
All of them – even using Fluval Stratum – will require the addition of root tabs if you aren't dosing your tank with ferts
.
Does Fluval Stratum have ammonia?
There is no ammonia in the substrate
. Cycling will not be helped with old tank water no matter what substrate you use.
How long does it take for Fluval Stratum to settle?
It takes a good
24+ hours
for the water to compleatly clear up and settle.
Can Fluval Stratum be reused?
Super Moderator
It's great for reuse
– as are most planted tank substrates. I even go a step further and use it for non-aquatic plants (mixing it with my standard potting mix and such) once it begins to break down after a few years.
Can you mix Fluval Stratum with fluorite?
Registered.
They will mix eventually, especially if you are planting deep into the base layer of fluorite
. The Stratum will break down into much in 1-2 years, and will mix into the fluorite pretty bad.
Does fluval stratum Leach?
Yes, it will
.
Does fluval stratum cause algae?
As far as the Fluval product is concerned, I've used it in a couple of tanks now with
no algae problems
and good growth. I like it. My water was high in nitrate as well the first few weeks, that is because the aqua soil releases huge amounts of ammonia and your filter converts it to nitrate (if you are lucky).
What does Fluval Stratum do?
Fluval Stratum is the substrate for
stimulating the growth of aquatic plants in freshwater aquariums
. Plant roots easily penetrate and spread throughout the substrate, allowing plants to obtain a variety of key, readily available nutrients that will make them flourish.
Does Fluval Stratum raise TDS?
Stratum is clay-based so
it might not increase TDS
, but since it's supposed to buffer the pH, it makes sense it would release H ions if the pH is too low?
Is Fluval Stratum buffering?
Registered.
Nope, you're good
. Low kH + Stratum + Wood will = low pH. high 5's is fine, eventually it might stable out around low 6's, just monitor TDS and pH with some amazon pens and you should be good.
Can I mix eco complete and Fluval Stratum?
A good combination is Eco-Complete on top with Fluval Stratum on the bottom
. The Eco-Complete is heavy enough to help hold rooting plants, while the Stratum nourishes them.
