GARNELEN4YOU® Indian Almond Leaves 20 x 15cm

Natural water conditioning for shrimp aquariums

GARNELEN4YOU® Indian Almond Leaves combine natural water conditioning, long-term grazing food and aquarium shelter in one product.

Indian almond leaves have been used in aquatics for decades to create more natural and biologically stable conditions. They are particularly useful in shrimp aquariums, where they gradually influence the water while also providing food and cover.

Humic substances, tannins and plant compounds

As the leaves soften in the aquarium, they continuously release naturally occurring compounds including:

• humic acids;

• tannins;

• flavonoids;

• saponins.

These compounds are associated with antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. In aquarium use, they may help inhibit undesirable bacteria and fungi while supporting stable water biology.

The leaves should be viewed as a natural supportive product rather than a replacement for diagnosis or appropriate treatment where animals are seriously ill.

Gentle influence on the water

Indian almond leaves may:

• give the water a light amber or tea-coloured tint;

• gently lower the pH;

• introduce humic substances and tannins;

• help create more natural shrimp-keeping conditions;

• have very little effect on conductivity.

The actual effect depends on the aquarium volume, carbonate hardness, filtration and the amount of leaf material used. In very soft water, begin with a conservative amount and monitor the pH.

A long-term food and grazing surface

Indian almond leaves do more than condition the water.

Their surface gradually becomes colonised by microorganisms and biofilm, which shrimp, crayfish and snails graze continuously. As the leaf decomposes, the animals may also consume the softened leaf tissue itself.

This makes the leaves particularly useful in aquariums containing baby shrimp. Juveniles can remain close to the leaf, graze on the developing biofilm and use it as a natural hiding place.

Recommended use

Use approximately 10 cm of leaf per 30 litres of aquarium water.

A full leaf may be used in a larger aquarium, while smaller tanks can be dosed by tearing or cutting the leaf into suitable portions. The beneficial compounds are released over approximately three weeks. Replace the leaf after this period, or leave it longer where it is still being grazed and the aquarium remains stable.

The leaves may float when first added. They normally absorb water and sink naturally over time. Pre-soaking is optional.

Suitable for

• Neocaridina shrimp

• Caridina shrimp

• baby and juvenile shrimp

• crayfish

• aquarium snails

• nano aquariums

• natural and blackwater-style setups

Product details

Product type: Natural water conditioner and long-term grazing food
Pack size: 20 leaves
Leaf size: Approximately 10–15 cm
Recommended dosage: 10 cm of leaf per 30 litres
Effective period: Approximately three weeks

Packaging

GARNELEN4YOU® Indian Almond Leaves are supplied in sustainable, resealable protective packaging made largely from renewable materials. Packaging is carried out in cooperation with workshops for people with disabilities.