These cones are an all natural water conditioning botanical. Alder cones have been used by fish and shrimp keepers for years to help reduce the PH levels and increase the tannins and humins of water. This will act as a natural fungicide and antibacterial, while also stimulating breeding of many fish. Shrimp enthusiasts love these little cones! The physical characteristics of cones attract a biofilm, providing an interesting foraging surface for the shrimp to feast on.
Alder cones are the catkins of black alder trees (Alnus glutinosa). These trees naturally occur in Europe but are also an introduced species in many parts of the United States and Canada.
Each 1 oz package contains approximately 50 alder cones.
Using Alder Cones in an aquarium:
We recommend adding 5-6 cones per every 10 gallons. These cones will change the tint of your water, adding less over a longer period will allow you to better gauge your intended effect. The cones will have leached out all their tannins in about a month. Then simply add a few more cones to maintain the water quality as desired.
It is good practice to add the cones to boiling water prior to introducing them into your aquarium as this will remove any excess natural debris.
Using Alder Cones to create a black water extract:
Combine Alder Cones, with Casuarina Cones and Catappa Leaves to create a potent Black Water extract to help soften the water used for shrimp and some fish. You can find a recipe here
Due to the nature of this product there will be some variation in shape, size and colour.
