Aquarium Substrate Fluval Bio-Stratum 2 kg – nutrient-rich plant substrate for freshwater aquaria

Fluval Bio-Stratum 2 kg is a nutrient-rich substrate formulated for freshwater planted aquaria. The substrate combines a porous, lightweight structure with plant-accessible nutrients to support root development, seedling propagation and long-term plant health while helping to stabilise water chemistry in aquascapes and planted tanks.

Advantages

Bio-Stratum delivers a balance of porosity and mineral content that encourages root growth and beneficial bacterial colonisation. Its granular structure allows water flow and gas exchange around roots while slowly providing elements plants require. The substrate is designed to be stable on the aquarium bottom, reducing cloudiness during planting and helping maintain clearer water and more consistent parameters over time.

Suitable for

• Planted freshwater aquaria and aquascapes
• Propagation of aquatic plant seedlings and carpeting species
• Community tanks that include root-feeding plants
• Setups that require stable pH and improved biological filtration

When it may not be suitable

This substrate is formulated principally for planted freshwater systems and may not be appropriate for marine, brackish or specialized cichlid tanks that require very coarse sand or rock bases. If you plan to keep invertebrates or fish species that actively sift very fine sand, a coarser or inert substrate may be preferable.

Key specifications

• Net weight: 2 kg of planted aquarium substrate
• Texture: porous granular structure for root penetration and water circulation
• Use: formulated to supply plant-accessible minerals and support beneficial bacteria
• Compatibility: intended for freshwater planted setups and aquascaping

How to use

Rinse lightly if desired to remove dust, then add an even 2–3 cm base layer for small aquaria or a deeper layer for larger plantings according to your planting plan. Place plants with roots gently into the substrate, keeping finer particles around delicate roots. Combine with additional inert sand or gravel layers if you need a specific aesthetic or to accommodate bottom-dwelling species. Monitor water parameters after initial setup and during the first weeks as the substrate integrates with the tank environment.

What to consider before purchase

• Intended aquarium type: suitable for freshwater planted tanks, not for marine or brackish use
• Depth required: plan substrate depth based on plant species and tank size
• Compatibility with livestock: check whether your fish or invertebrates prefer coarser or finer substrates

Usage recommendations

For best results, use Bio-Stratum as part of a layered substrate system in planted aquaria: a base layer of Bio-Stratum to nourish roots with a shallow top layer of decorative sand or fine gravel to secure carpeting plants. Regularly test water parameters and perform routine maintenance to support plant growth and biological balance.