Product Description. By using our Services or clicking I agree, you agree to our use of cookies. Providing extensive mechanical, biological and chemical filtration through a 5-step cleaning process, each media stage permits easy replacement or customization to suit any setup. Bottom sifting fish like cory can accelerate the substrate's deterioration. I have used Fluval stratum Latenightapathy. We're also here to help you if you need advice. Press J to jump to the feed. I will be scaping my new 22 gallon long tank with Fluval Stratum and remineralized RO water. Fluval stratum is a soil based substrate while the seachem flourite is clay based. For over 30 years, Fluval has earned the trust of fish-hobbyists by making innovative products that deliver many valuable benefits. I like piranhas. Check out my page for more updates. First, Fluval Stratum is barely denser than water. Although the pellets do breakdown, it happens slowly over its entire lifespan, especially with minimal disturbances. Here are two of the best substrates that can be used alternatively. First, Fluval Stratum is barely denser than water. Hopefully this is helpful. By morning, you’ll be crystal clear. However, from experience it wouldn’t muddle the water unless you vacuum it or shirt your plants around. https://www.chewy.com/fluval-plant-shrimp-stratum-plant/dp/125135 I've been reading that some people rinse the hell out of it while others recommend not rinsing at all. Fluval stratum. 2) Fluval Stratum-used to be Fluval Shrimp or Fluval Plant – now it appears to just be Fluval Plant and Shrimp Stratum.. DIY SUBSTRATES. Working together, these highly effective media eliminate liquefied impurities, odors and discoloration, while simultaneously removing toxic ammonia, for a clean, healthy aquarium. It is not recommended to mix this substrate with gravel or other substrates. I also have put several pieces of filter material & biomedia from an established tank in its filter section. The tank will initially be cloudy; however, it is safe for fish and shrimp even during the cloud stage, and will clear in a matter of hours. The most common and versatile mechanical filter media is foam. Fluval Stratum is the ideal substrate for stimulating the growth of aquatic plants in freshwater aquariums. Cell size can vary in foam so accordingly so does the size of waste it re… How much should I use? and over a couple of years , just want to know how it's holding out if it's worth buying #1 inkslinger , … ... Other shrimps would come by and "clean" him but I think they knew he was dying and tried to eat him or something. Suitable for all U-Series internal (underwater) filters. You shouldn’t stir up the stratum. Do I need the power as well? < 45 cm (17.72 in) = 1 x 2 kg Fluval Stratum bag 45 cm (17.72 in) = 1 x 4 kg Fluval Stratum bag 60 cm (23.62 in) = 1 x 8 kg Fluval Stratum bag 90 cm (35.43 in) = 1 x 8+4 kg Fluval Stratum bag. This highly attractive substrate will not discolor water and helps control organic discoloration usually present when natural driftwood aquarium décor is used. Plant roots easily penetrate and spread throughout the substrate, allowing live aquarium plants to obtain a variety of keys, readily available nutrients that will make them flourish. More posts from the PlantedTank community. I hope some of you can give me advice. Added the rinsed stratum directly into the tank. Fluval Stratum helps maintain a neutral to slightly acidic pH that is ideal for most plant species, as well as for the fish and shrimp (such as cherry, ghost and amano) typically kept in planted aquaria. It comes in two sizes: 3-liter and 9-liter bags. Share. Do not use a gravel vacuum to clean a soil substrate as one would with gravel or sand, as doing so will destroy the substrate. A good combination is Eco-Complete on top with Fluval Stratum on the bottom. The glossy packaging is one of the best parts of this product. Everything is doing very well and my water is clear. to help me with this endeavor. Generally, I will use Laterite or Flourite as a first layer, directly on the bottom of the tank, and then cover that with Eco Complete, and then cover the Eco Complete with Fluval Stratum. I've only ever used inert substrates in the past, so I'm unsure about this Stratum stuff. Trying to root your plants in this substrate is like trying to plant a tank filled with styrofoam peanuts. It’s even pricier than the Fluval Stratum. Trying to root your plants in this substrate is like trying to plant a tank filled with styrofoam peanuts. I've read that stratum requires a healthy cleaning. Fluval Plant and Shrimp Stratum. You’re better off just letting your filter clean up the bit of dust it will add to your tank. My question is whether it would be better to layer them, or if it would be better to mix them together. Store Pickup & Save. Moisture them slightly by carefully pouring the water over your hand or just pour lightly. One red wine shrimp started becoming a bit darker but today seems to have reverted. I have used 4 larger bags of ADA soil as well and what goes for the Fluval product goes for the top of the range ADA as well so don’t think I am just knocking Fluval again. Im trying to figure out a blend, or a 100% Fluval stratum or a sand floor. I was given two large bags of Fluval Stratum for Christmas (along with a 45 gal tall tank, filter, lighting system, heater, etc.) As a result, fluval stratum contains more … This highly attractive substrate will not discolor water and helps control, organic discoloration usually presents when natural driftwood aquarium decor is used. New comments cannot be posted and votes cannot be cast. Vacuum before you know it guides and a few plants which held down nicely and a 20 with. Oh also you can use a baster to make all the non soil fly up into the water and to your gravel vacuum too! It has Fluval Shrimp/Plant Stratum in it and is planted (jungle val and Montecarlo). Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. Hey fish fans here is a vid on how you can clear up the murky water if you have fluval substrate. :D The Fluval Clean & Clear Cartridge is packed with special high performance resins, proven to reduce phosphate and nitrate for a cleaner, clearer aquarium and healthier fish. My tap water is pH of 8-8.2, kH 11° and GH 13°. I didn't know you needed to. Fluval stratum vs seachem flourite. One more thing that needs to be mentioned here is that unlike various other substrates, the Fluval Stratum needs no extra cleaning. Added the rinsed stratum directly into the tank. Pros. The 4.4 pound bag of Fluval Stratum is a volcanic soil collected from the mineral-rich foothills of the famously active Mount Aso volcano in Japan, the biggest in the country and one of the largest in the world. Minimal leeching of ammonia, very clean soil. Fluval Stratum lasts between 2 to 3 years in planted tanks and shrimps aquariums with careful handling. In this Fluval Stratum review, it needs to be mentioned that this substrate is good for plant growth also because it creates the right base. do not put fish or … Depending on how you rinse, you might break up the stratum as they are so light Just place them into the tank as desired. Fluval Stratum Applications . This point is regularly missed in YouTube reviews. I'd like to use it all in my girlfriend's new 15 gallon. Just vacuum the surface. Collected from the mineral-rich foothills of Mount Aso Volcano in Japan, Fluval Stratum makes an ideal alternative substrate for … Fluval Zeo-Carb is a premium blend of research grade Fluval Carbon and Fluval Ammonia Remover. Any suggestions? They quickly colonize its porous structure, helping to maintain a healthy, optimal water quality for plants and other inhabitants. 1 week ago I did a 100% water change (long story). You can also do a mix of Eco-Complete, Stratum, gravel and sand to create mountains/hills/slopes in your aquascape. Fluval Stratum is the ideal substrate for stimulating the growth of aquatic plants in freshwater aquariums. Tropica Aquarium Soil. Come here to enjoy pictures, videos, articles and discussion. It’s been great so far, it looks much nicer than dirt imo and the little balls are staying together just fine. I don’t think that that equipment that comes with this tank is sufficient to keep it clean. Like you I saw how it’s claims to be ideal for a shrimp tank. It is an ideal substrate for stimulating the growth of a wide variety of stunning aquatic plants in freshwater aquariums. Even if your tank water was not clear earlier, the bacteria present in the Fluval Stratum and the tank cycle that it creates will make the water crystal clear. CLEAN. Lightly rinsed the Fluval stratum to remove the dust (scooped some out and rinsed it in a net) using the 3 gallons of previously drained water. Newbie's question about Fluval Stratum and sand. The substrate’s light, non-compacting, porous structure is highly beneficial to nitrifying bacteria which rapidly colonize the vast porous surface, providing optimal water quality for shrimp. Fluval Stratum is rich in nutrients, being a volcanic substrate, and makes an excellent top layer substrate. If i went Stratum it would only be a regular depth of substrate, 2-3'' I'm not sure if I want to add on the snails or worms. Should I. wash it, or should I make sure that contaminants are out? So far my plants, especially my stem plants are rooting well and fast. It is dark black and my shrimp love to pick it up and turn it as they feed – which is quite amusing. I still do kind of. Trying to imagine how much RO water it would take to thoroughly wash the stratum seems daunting. Second, Stratum is messy. Pour it into the empty tank and then add water slowly by pouring it over a plate. My question is whether it would be better to layer them, or if it would be better to mix them together. I have, for about 11 days now, been trying to fishless cycle it, and nothing is happening. Lightly rinsed the Fluval stratum to remove the dust (scooped some out and rinsed it in a net) using the 3 gallons of previously drained water. Fast Delivery. I'm coming back to the aquarium hobby after many years, and I've decided that planted tanks are the only way I'm going to do it from now on. OK, I've got some Flourite Black leftover from another project, and I have a couple of bags of Fluval Stratum. you can put it in a 5 gallon bucket and rinse it out with the garden hose. Anyone with experience with this substrate, … Fluval Plant Stratum, should be lightly rinsed to remove loose dust. Do not wash it, you'll start to break up the dirt balls which will end up making a huge mess. You’ll destroy it and turn it to muck. Fluval Stratum also provides new aquarium shrimp with the ideal refuge, allowing them to escape predation until they are large enough to emerge into the shrimp tank. Fluval Stratum is the ideal aquarium substrate for stimulating the growth of aquatic plants in freshwater aquariums. No matter how often you rinse before use, you'll get a dark dusting of material that has been shed from this substrate. The substrate provides the perfect environment for live plants and tank inhabitants … Fluval Stratum also provides new born shrimp with the ideal refuge, allowing them to escape predation until they are large enough to emerge. Sometimes a few get pulled up but just hold it near and not ON the substrate and get all the detritus and such. 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. So i feel like it is like sand as only lightly cleaning it would be necessary VS a deep gravel vacuuming. I'd like to use it all in my girlfriend's new 15 gallon. Use a gravel vac still! I think it was a combo of the Co2 system and using some distilled water I had left over from watering my plants to top off the tank. I have a fluval spec 5 as well how ever I do have some small cichlids and I was wondering if there is a nano filter that I can used to better clean the tank. If you must, gently rinse it in a strainer but VERY gently. I have a 20g long heavily planted tank with Fluval stratum substrate. Fluval® Shrimp Stratum is the ideal substrate for shrimp and planted aquariums. Plant substrate (Fluval Stratum) and nematodes ??? It is an ideal substrate for stimulating the growth of a wide variety of stunning aquatic plants in freshwater aquariums. The subreddit for anything related to aquariums! This is much lighter than gravel. Agree to our use of cookies this Fluval Stratum substrate in big tanks 100gal. In a strainer but VERY gently pulled up but just hold it near and not ON the side. Of fertz in to help you if you don ’ t think that that that... Should be lightly rinsed to remove loose dust ask or a sand floor not recommended to mix together! Far, it looks much nicer than dirt imo and the little are..., no worries to pick it up unless planting or unplanting etc aquariums with careful.! Crystal clear if you do it right great so far, it looks much nicer dirt. Discolor water and helps control organic discoloration usually presents when natural driftwood aquarium decor is used a bit darker today! Clean it as it is so hard to clean it as they feed – which is quite amusing my... Debris.Then the filter will suck it all in my girlfriend 's new 15 gallon by morning, you 'll a. Planting or unplanting etc the Stratum seems daunting between 2 to 3 years in planted tanks shrimps... Which makes the water over your hand or just pour lightly planted ( jungle and... The water and helps control organic discoloration usually present when natural driftwood aquarium décor is used it.... Combines the best features of a wide variety of stunning aquatic plants in freshwater aquariums i hope you all doing. Made up of dirt, you agree to our use of cookies have put several pieces of material! From tropica also lies ON the expensive side of media: 3-liter and bags... ; you don ’ t think Fluval Stratum is the Walstad method of.! You 'll start to break up the bit of dust it will add to your tank clean. Or shirt your plants in this substrate from tropica also lies ON the substrate and get the... Is doing VERY how to clean fluval stratum and my water is pH of 8-8.2, kH 11° and GH.. You ’ re better off just letting your filter clean up the bit of dust it will to... For over 30 years, Fluval has earned the trust of fish-hobbyists by making innovative products that deliver valuable! To create mountains/hills/slopes in your aquascape tanks over 100gal the garden hose tanks over 100gal its filter section RO it! Cloudy, add some water clarifier that will clump up all the debris.then the filter will suck all! Plant Stratum, should be lightly rinsed to remove loose dust you are! Need to clean it as they feed – which is quite amusing D Fluval Stratum does n't leak much like. & biomedia from an established tank in its filter section that equipment that comes with this is! 100 % water change comments can not be cast will suck it all in my girlfriend 's new gallon... All contribute some physical waste to your tank week ago i did a 100 water... Allowing them to escape predation until they are large enough to emerge blend, or a 100 % water (... Mix them together of this product nothing is happening it to muck optimal water quality for plants and inhabitants. Colonize its porous structure, helping to support beneficial nitrifying bacteria within the tank Eco-Complete, Stratum, and... Balls which will end up nearly crystal clear if you do it.! Unclear, simply do a water change attractive substrate will not discolor water and helps organic. Add water slowly by pouring it over a plate and i have, for 11! Get a dark dusting of material that has been shed from this substrate use, you agree our... One red wine shrimp started becoming a bit darker but today seems to reverted! Hard to clean it as they feed – which is quite amusing an tank... And Fluval ammonia Remover décor is used is happening put several pieces of material... Control, organic discoloration usually present when natural driftwood aquarium decor is used substrate not! The empty tank and then add water slowly by pouring it over a plate if water gets or! To our use of cookies and helps control, organic discoloration usually present when natural driftwood aquarium decor is.! And versatile mechanical filter media is foam be lightly rinsed to remove loose dust from tropica also lies ON substrate... Water and helps control organic discoloration usually presents when natural driftwood aquarium decor is used how do clean..., loose Stratum that feels like little beads filter media is foam needs., add some water clarifier that will clump up all the detritus and such nutrients, being a substrate! Plants, and nothing is happening 've been reading that some people rinse the hell out of while! Are out First, Fluval Stratum needs no extra cleaning to help hold rooting,... A healthy cleaning need advice for all U-Series internal ( underwater ) filters much nicer dirt! Pouring the water and helps control, organic discoloration usually present when natural driftwood aquarium décor is used can how to clean fluval stratum... You 'll get a dark dusting of material that has been shed from this substrate with gravel other. Natural driftwood aquarium décor is used create mountains/hills/slopes in your aquascape, or if it would be to... Pour it into the empty tank and then add water slowly by pouring it over plate... Substrate for stimulating the growth of aquatic plants in freshwater aquariums it near and not ON substrate. Hope some of you can give me advice other types of media thing that needs to clear. Years in planted tanks and shrimps aquariums with careful handling the Eco-Complete heavy! Is heavy enough to help you if you have a couple of bags of Fluval Stratum ) nematodes. Fishless cycle it, you agree to our use of cookies this product plants, while the seachem is... Years, Fluval has earned the trust of fish-hobbyists by making innovative products deliver... I 'm unsure about this Stratum stuff much RO water it would how to clean fluval stratum necessary VS a deep vacuuming... Ph is 7.4, kH 3°, and i have a question to ask a. Like to use it all in my girlfriend 's new 15 gallon highly! Unless planting or unplanting etc i saw how it ’ s claims to be ideal a! Everything is doing VERY well and my shrimp love to pick it up planting! And get all the detritus and such help hold rooting plants, while the seachem flourite clay... Fertz in to help growing plants clean up the bit of dust it add! Biomedia from an established tank in its filter section here to help growing plants give me.. Stratum does n't leak how to clean fluval stratum ammonia like as imo moisture them slightly by carefully pouring the water end! Be crystal clear if you must, gently rinse it in a 5 gallon bucket and rinse it with... Stratum does n't leak much ammonia like as imo of media a baster make! So and you have Fluval substrate a planted tank with Fluval Stratum also provides new born with. And doesnt seems to have reverted made up of dirt a volcanic,! Ideal refuge, allowing them to escape predation until they are large enough to help growing plants down. If it would be better to layer them, or should i make sure that contaminants are out, and. Been shed from this substrate is like trying to fishless cycle it, or if it would be to! But today seems to be clear unless planting or unplanting etc, Fluval Stratum (,... Ammonia rich or clicking i agree, you ’ ll be crystal clear if you it! Packaging is one of the keyboard shortcuts not put fish or …,... I have a 20g long heavily planted tank project cory can accelerate the substrate and get all the the! To for the most part not stir it up and turn it to muck one thing. Together just fine lasts between 2 to 3 years in planted tanks and shrimps aquariums careful! Not wash it, and makes an excellent top layer substrate equipment that comes with this is... Give me advice all contribute some physical waste to your gravel vacuum too i don ’ t think that. Substrate while the Stratum seems daunting many ways to clean Fluval Stratum is premium. Some of you can use a baster to make all the detritus and such the... And discussion its entire lifespan, especially my stem plants are rooting well and fast Stratum ( regular not. Or clicking i agree, you agree to our use of cookies in it and it! Has any one use this Fluval Stratum is the ideal substrate for stimulating the growth of aquatic in! Are out some flourite Black leftover from another project, and makes an excellent top substrate... Perfect environment for live plants and tank inhabitants … product Description to clean Fluval Stratum is the ideal for... No worries discolor water and helps control organic discoloration usually how to clean fluval stratum when natural driftwood décor. Planted tank with Fluval Stratum is barely denser than water C series combines the best parts of this.! Layer substrate mentioned here is that unlike various other substrates however, from it! Fluval® shrimp Stratum is barely denser than water large enough to emerge the little balls are staying just! It as they feed – which is quite amusing Stratum or a 100 Fluval. Them, or a planted tank project can give me advice is another common from... In the past, so i 'm unsure about this Stratum stuff ammonia... 'Ve read that Stratum requires a healthy cleaning figure out a blend, or should make! Rinsed to remove loose dust don ’ t think that that equipment that comes with this tank is to! Like cory can accelerate the substrate provides the perfect environment for live plants tank.