{"title":"Botanicals","description":"\u003cspan\u003eCatappa leaves have been widely used in aquariums in Asian countries for a long time already. Owners and breeders of various fish and animals such as fighting fish, discus, shrimp, crawfish and pecostomus use the leaves for the treatment of bacterial ailments, and also to heal injuries of fish, such as bites or transportation wounds\u003c\/span\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"hobby-alder-cones-x50","title":"Hobby Alder Cones (x50)","description":"\u003cspan\u003eOur Alder Cones are harvested from black alders (Alnus glutinosa). This product is made by nature and collected only at places where nature has been left intact and men hasn't taken harmful influence. What makes Alder Cones so special? Alder Cones are extraordinary suppliers of important humins and tanning agents. Humins in the aquarium provide for plant growth (they release nitrogen, phosphor and sulphur to the water), for a gentle decrease of the pH value and the water becoming of a natural yet crystal clear colouring, just as many of our aquarium inhabitants prefer it in their natural environment. Even for animals not originating from such regions, the Alder Cones offer additional benefits. The tanning agents provide the benefit of naturally inhibiting germs harmful to your animals such as bacteria and fungi spores. Therefore, the use of Alder Cones is ideal also if you wish to promote the reproduction of your fish. It is only thanks to the 'blackwater effect' that animals become ready to spawn. The tanning agents will help greatly in avoiding fungal infestation of the spawn. Once the breed has hatched once an watch them develop and grow better and look for food particles on the Alder Cones. Shrimp and various other animals will frequent the small cones too in order to graze on them, grate at them or hide out.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003epromote the vitality and well-being of your animals\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003enatural coloring of the water - indispensable for many species\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eslight decreasing and stabilization of the pH value\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003egentle repression of unwanted bacterial growth\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eblocks fungi to prevent fungal infections and infestation of spawn\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ewillingly accepted as additional feed and hide out by shrimps, crabs and plecostomus\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e__Use:__Put the Alder Cones directly into the aquarium water. 1 cone is sufficient for approx. 10 - 20 liters. The cones will sink to the aquarium bottom within a few minutes and start releasing their active agents soon. The Alder Cones should be replaced every 2 - 3 weeks. The used cones may stay in the aquarium as additional fee for crabs and shrimps or may be discarded. Our Alder Cones can be kept almost infinitely if stored at a dry place. As they are a pure natural product, they may vary in form, color and size.","brand":"Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40200405090439,"sku":"125565","price":4.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0563\/6387\/6487\/products\/hobby-alder-cones-x50-867398.jpg?v=1731256528"},{"product_id":"hobby-catappa-bark-x12","title":"Hobby Catappa Bark (x12)","description":"The leaves and bark of catappa have been widely used in aquariums in Asian countries for a long time already. Owners and breeders of various fish and animals such as fighting fish, discus, shrimp, crawfish and pecostomus use the leaves and bark for the treatment of bacterial ailments, and also to heal injuries of fish, such as bites or transportation wounds. The risk of wound infections is tremendously decreased when our catappa leaves and catappa bark pieces are being used. The effect of catappa bark is similar to that of catappa leaves (Catappa Leaves), but considerably stronger. The comprised humic acid and tanning agents strengthen the mucous membranes of the fish and make it difficult for bacterial pathogens to permeate this protection. Likewise, the bark pieces are conducive to the reproduction and breeding of your fish. On the one hand, they promote the mating disposition of your fish, on the other they reduce fungi spawn. Even the growth of blue algae (cyanobacteria) will be inhibited by the compounds. It is remarkable, too, that the bacteria useful to the aquarium are verifiably not impaired. When transporting fish, it is strongly recommended to a add a small piece of catappa bark or catappa leaves to the water used. This decreases the susceptibility and stress significantly which the animals experience from the high concentrations of bacteria. You may as well condition your fresh water with our catappa bark pieces before you conduct a water change. This helps reduce stress for you fish. By releasing humic acids and tanning agents, catappa bark creates a natural surrounding and increases the vitality and well-being of your aquarium inhabitants. It is good to know that the retrieval of the bark, no tree is being harmed nor perished.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003epromotes the vitality and well-being of your animals\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eoriginates from the natural environment of your shrimps and fish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003esupports your shrimps' moult\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eindispensable for many species\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ehave astringent properties\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003econtain numerous natural substances that have a positive effect on the water and the fish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003estrengthen the creatures' endogenous defence systems and reduce their stress\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003eUsage: Put a piece of bark directly into the aquarium. One piece of catappa bark is sufficient for approx. 100 l of water. The bark will sink to the bottom of the aquarium in a little while. Should you need a fast disposal of the active ingredients, infuse the catappa bark quickly in hot water. Usually, the active agents in our catappa bark are released to the water during a period of approx. 3 weeks. After that, you may introduce a fresh piece to the aquarium. The used catappa bark piece can remain in the aquarium as additional feed or hide-out for crustaceans and shrimps, or may be discarded. If you use catappa bark in addition to catappa leaves, please consider this when determining the dosage. Catappa bark can be kept for an indefinite period of time if stored at a dry place. Since it is a purely natural product, changes in form, color and size may occur.","brand":"Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40200405123207,"sku":"125560","price":8.45,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0563\/6387\/6487\/products\/hobby-catappa-bark-x12-940299.jpg?v=1731256529"},{"product_id":"hobby-catappa-leaves-x12","title":"Hobby Catappa Leaves (x12)","description":"Catappa leaves have been widely used in aquariums in Asian countries for a long time already. Owners and breeders of various fish and animals such as fighting fish, discus, shrimp, crawfish and pecostomus use the leaves for the treatment of bacterial ailments, and also to heal injuries of fish, such as bites or transportation wounds. The risk of wound infections is tremendously decreased when our catappa leaves are being used. The mucous membranes are strengthened. It is remarkable that bacteria useful to the aquarium are verifiably not impaired when catappa leaves are being used. When transporting fish, it is strongly recommended to add catappa leaves or a small piece of catappa bark\u003cspan\u003e to the water used. This decreases the susceptibility and stress significantly which the animals experience from high concentrations of bacteria. When it comes to breeding, catappa leaves help promote the mating disposition of your fish, and reduce spawn fungi. By releasing humic acids and tanning agents, catappa leaves create a natural surrounding and increase the vitality and well-being of your aquarium occupants.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003epromotes the vitality and well-being of your animals\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eoriginates from the natural environment of your shrimps and fish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003esupports your shrimps' moult\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eindispensable for many species\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ehave astringent properties\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003econtain numerous natural substances that have a positive effect on the water and the fish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003estrengthen the creatures' endogenous defence systems and reduce their stress\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003eUsage: Put the leaf directly into the aquarium. One leaf is sufficient for approx. 30 - 50 l of water. The leaf will sink to the bottom of the aquarium within 24 - 48 h. There, it will release its active agents to the water within a period of approx. 14 days. After that, you may introduce a fresh leaf to the aquarium. The used catappa leaf can remain in the aquarium as additional feed or hide-out for crustaceans and shrimps, or may be discarded. Catappa leaves can be kept for an indefinite period of time if stored at a dry place. Since it is a purely natural product, changes in form, color and size may occur.","brand":"Hobby","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40200405155975,"sku":"125562","price":6.26,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0563\/6387\/6487\/products\/hobby-catappa-leaves-x12-850253.jpg?v=1731256531"},{"product_id":"wio-cyca-leaves-10-20cm-3-pack","title":"WIO Cyca Leaves 10-20cm - 3 Pack","description":"\u003cp\u003eCyca Leaves are sourced from various species within the Cycas genus, known for their stiff, feather-like fronds and prehistoric allure. Native to tropical and subtropical regions around the world, these leaves bring a unique and exotic touch to any habitat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTypically measuring 20-100 cm in length, that have been cut down to less than 20 cms, Cyca Leaves create a visually striking backdrop that enhances the natural aesthetics of your setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCyca Leaves sink inmediately and provide excellent hiding spots and foraging opportunities for fish, shrimp, and other aquatic and terrestrial inhabitants. As they decompose, they release beneficial compounds into the water, enhancing water quality and mimicking the natural conditions of many species' native environments. The robust structure of these leaves ensures they last longer, creating durable microhabitats and promoting a dynamic ecosystem.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese botanicals gradually release tannins, which can lower the pH of the water and add a subtle, natural tint. This process helps replicate the soft, acidic conditions found in many natural habitats, benefiting species that thrive in such environments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you are looking to create a new setup or enhance an existing one, Cyca Leaves from the Cycas genus provide a perfect blend of beauty and functionality, fostering a dynamic and thriving ecosystem.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"WIO","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53481324740987,"sku":"MC021","price":8.69,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0563\/6387\/6487\/files\/CycaLeaves.jpg?v=1731258112"},{"product_id":"seachem-catappa-leaves-small-7g","title":"Seachem Catappa Leaves Small 7g","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCatappa leaves coming from Indian Almond Trees(\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eTerminalia catappa\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e) help to replicate natural environments for Bettas, shrimp and other aquarium inhabitants. When added to an aquarium, they release tannins and other organic compounds which aid in maintaining lower pH and gently tinting water. These conditions mimic habitats with acidic water and abundant leaf litter. As catappa leaves decay, beneficial micro-organisms grow on the leaf surface, creating a natural source of food for shrimp, snails, and newly-hatched fish.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"panel-heading\"\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"panel-title\"\u003eDirections\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"collapse8Two\" class=\"accordion-body collapse in\" aria-expanded=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"panel-body m-md\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdd 1-2 leaves per 20 liters (5 US gallons). Remove and replace every month or as desired. Catappa leaves may float initially but will sink after 2 - 3 days. To make an extract, boil three grams (approx. two-and-a-half leaves) in 1 liter (1 US quart) of water for ten minutes or until desired color is attained. Let extract cool to aquarium temperature and pour directly into the tank or mix with prepared water for water changes. When first using extract, add gradually over a 2 to 3 days and monitor to ensure pH stays within suitable range for tank inhabitants. Chemical filtration media such as\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.seachem.com\/matrixcarbon.php\"\u003eactivated carbon\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecan remove compounds provided by Catappa leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"list list-icons list-icons-style-3 list-icons\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNatural botanicals for shrimp \u0026amp; Betta fish\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHelps to replicate natural environments for Bettas, shrimp and other aquarium inhabitants\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSmall Size: 4-5 inches\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Seachem","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55163024441723,"sku":"02053823","price":8.39,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0563\/6387\/6487\/files\/CatappaLeavesSmall.jpg?v=1741949508"},{"product_id":"seachem-catappa-leaves-medium-11g","title":"Seachem Catappa Leaves Medium 11g","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCatappa leaves coming from Indian Almond Trees(\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eTerminalia catappa\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e) help to replicate natural environments for Bettas, shrimp and other aquarium inhabitants. When added to an aquarium, they release tannins and other organic compounds which aid in maintaining lower pH and gently tinting water. These conditions mimic habitats with acidic water and abundant leaf litter. As catappa leaves decay, beneficial micro-organisms grow on the leaf surface, creating a natural source of food for shrimp, snails, and newly-hatched fish.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"panel-heading\"\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"panel-title\"\u003eDirections\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"collapse8Two\" class=\"accordion-body collapse in\" aria-expanded=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"panel-body m-md\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdd 1-2 leaves per 20 liters (5 US gallons). Remove and replace every month or as desired. Catappa leaves may float initially but will sink after 2 - 3 days. To make an extract, boil three grams (approx. two-and-a-half leaves) in 1 liter (1 US quart) of water for ten minutes or until desired color is attained. Let extract cool to aquarium temperature and pour directly into the tank or mix with prepared water for water changes. When first using extract, add gradually over a 2 to 3 days and monitor to ensure pH stays within suitable range for tank inhabitants. Chemical filtration media such as\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eactivated carbon\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecan remove compounds provided by Catappa leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"list list-icons list-icons-style-3 list-icons\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNatural botanicals for shrimp \u0026amp; Betta fish\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHelps to replicate natural environments for Bettas, shrimp and other aquarium inhabitants\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMedium Size: 6-7 inches\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Seachem","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55163054129531,"sku":"02053825","price":9.09,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0563\/6387\/6487\/files\/CatappaLeavesMedium.jpg?v=1741949801"},{"product_id":"seachem-catappa-tea-bags-12-pack","title":"Seachem Catappa Tea Bags 12 Pack","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCatappa Tea Bags from Indian Almond Trees (Terminalia catappa) help to replicate natural environments for Bettas, shrimp, and other aquarium inhabitants. Catappa Tea Bags provide a source of tannins and other organic compounds which aid in maintaining lower pH and gently tinting water, mimicking conditions of habitats with acidic water and abundant leaf litter. Not for human consumption\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"panel-heading\"\u003e\n\u003ch4 class=\"panel-title\"\u003eDirections\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"collapse8Two\" class=\"accordion-body collapse in\" aria-expanded=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"panel-body m-md\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoil one bag in 1 liter (1 US quart) of water for 10 minutes or until desired extract color is attained.  Let extract cool to aquarium temperature and pour the amount needed directly into the tank or mix with prepared water for water changes.  When first using extract, add gradually over a 2 to 3 days and monitor to ensure pH stays within suitable range for tank inhabitants. Alternatively, add 1 bag per 40L (10 US gallons) to an external filter such as a Seachem\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eTidal Filter\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003efor a time-release effect. Monitor pH and remove bags when the wanted level or amount of tinting is achieved. Chemical filtration media such as\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eactivated carbon\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ecan remove compounds provided by Catappa Tea Bags.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"list list-icons list-icons-style-3 list-icons\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNatural botanicals for shrimp \u0026amp; Betta fish\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHelps to replicate natural environments for Bettas, shrimp and other aquarium inhabitants\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLowers pH, gently tints water\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Seachem","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55163105149307,"sku":"02053820","price":8.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0563\/6387\/6487\/files\/CatappaTeaBags.jpg?v=1741950684"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0563\/6387\/6487\/collections\/botanicals-209479.jpg?v=1706191015","url":"https:\/\/charterhouse-aquatics.com\/collections\/decoration-botanicals.oembed","provider":"Charterhouse Aquatics","version":"1.0","type":"link"}