Fluval Bio-Stratum
Also sold as Bio-Stratum · Bio Stratum · Fluval Bio Stratum · BioStratum
Fluval Bio-Stratum is an aquasoil with a 1–3 mm grain. It holds some nutrients and pushes pH down, which is what decides whether it suits your plants and your shrimp.
Calculate substrate quantity before buying materials.
At a glance
| Type | Aquasoil |
|---|---|
| Nutrients | Some |
| Grain | 1–3 mm |
| Brand | Fluval |
| Effect on pH | Lowers pH and KH |
| Shrimp | Fine for both Caridina and Neocaridina |
Shown at real grain size, about 16 cm across
Before it goes in
- Fluval Bio-Stratum is an aquasoil, 1–3 mm grain.
- It is lightly fertilised: root feeders grow in it without root tabs.
- It pulls pH and KH down, which suits soft-water shrimp and most plants. It also works against hardscape that raises hardness — Seiryu Stone and Elephant Skin Stone — so the two partly cancel out.
- It is rough on fish that sift the substrate. Something finer suits German Blue Ram and Julii Cory better.
Fluval Bio-Stratum: care and setup
What kind of substrate is it?
Aquasoil with a 1–3 mm grain, holding some nutrients.
Does it change pH?
Yes, it pulls pH and KH down and holds them there until it is exhausted.
Can I use it on its own?
Yes — Fluval Bio-Stratum is a complete substrate on its own.
Will carpeting plants root in it?
Yes. The grain is fine enough for runners to grip.
What it goes with
- Root feeders that get the most out of it: Cryptocoryne wendtii, Dwarf Hairgrass Mini, Lobelia cardinalis 'Mini' and Alternanthera reineckii.
- Animals that are fine on it: Betta, Cherry Shrimp, Goldfish and Angelfish.
Often compared with
| Fluval Bio-Stratum | Fluval Stratum | ADA Africana | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Aquasoil | Aquasoil | Aquasoil |
| Nutrients | Some | Some | Some |
| pH | Lowers | Lowers | Lowers |
| Grain | 1–3 mm | 3–5 mm | Medium |