{"product_id":"fluval-12694-plant-shrimp-stratum-freshwater-substrate-for-plants-shrimp","title":"Fluval 12694 Plant \u0026 Shrimp Stratum – Freshwater Substrate for Plants \u0026 Shrimp","description":"\u003ch2\u003eOverview\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFluval 12694 Plant and Shrimp Stratum is a freshwater substrate designed to support lush aquatic life without discoloring water. Its light, non-compacting grains create a natural-looking bed that invites plant roots to penetrate and spread, delivering accessible macro and micro nutrients that plants rely on to flourish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eHow it works\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePromotes robust plant growth by enabling easy root penetration and nutrient absorption\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePorous structure encourages rapid colonization by beneficial nitrifying bacteria, helping maintain water quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilt to sustain a neutral to slightly acidic pH range, suitable for many plants, tropical fish, and shrimp\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eKey benefits in your aquarium\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvides shelter for newborn shrimp, offering a safe refuge until they’re ready to enter the main tank\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePreserves water clarity by minimizing discoloration, even with natural decor such as driftwood\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eReal-life setups\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn planted tanks, this substrate supports strong root systems and vibrant foliage. In shrimp-focused displays, it creates a natural hiding place that mirrors a wild habitat while helping maintain stable conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSizes and availability\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eChoose from multiple bag sizes to fit your tank: 4.4 lb, 8.8 lb, or 17.6 lb. This flexibility lets you scale as your plant collection grows.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eCare and usage tips\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRinse gently before use to remove dust and fine particles and minimize initial clouding\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpread the substrate to a base depth of 2-3 inches for optimal root growth in mid- to large-sized tanks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConsider supplementing with Fluval Plant Micronutrients for a complete macro- and micronutrient profile\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eFluval Stratum provides a thoughtful foundation for plant vitality and shrimp welfare without altering water color. It pairs well with Fluval’s range of aquariums, filters, and planted-tank accessories to help you create a cohesive setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"product-faq-snippet\"\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFAQ\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"faq-item\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"faq-q\"\u003eQ: What are the main benefits of Fluval 12694 Plant and Shrimp Stratum for planted tanks?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"faq-a\"\u003eA: It promotes root-friendly growth, supports nitrifying bacteria, and provides shrimp shelter for a healthy, natural setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"faq-item\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"faq-q\"\u003eQ: Does Fluval Stratum affect water color or pH?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"faq-a\"\u003eA: Yes, it helps maintain a neutral to slightly acidic pH and reduces water discoloration in freshwater aquariums.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e","brand":"Fluval","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40565225652353,"sku":"B00JMABYUO","price":72.59,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0598\/4757\/3633\/files\/fluval-plant-and-shrimp-stratum-closeup-grains.jpg?v=1765985340","url":"https:\/\/petiva.ca\/products\/fluval-12694-plant-shrimp-stratum-freshwater-substrate-for-plants-shrimp","provider":"Petiva","version":"1.0","type":"link"}