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Freshwater Botanicals

Our botanical products are carefully sourced, selected, and hand-crafted using natural materials and simple processes. From individually prepared botanicals to thoughtfully composed blends, each product is designed for enrichment, feeding, and water conditioning in natural aquatic environments.

Freshwater Botanicals FAQs

Aquarium botanicals are natural items such as leaves, seed pods, cones, and bark that are added to aquariums to create a more natural-looking environment. They are especially popular in shrimp, betta, and blackwater setups.

Yes - many botanicals release natural tannins which can tint the water tea-brown. This is completely normal and is often desired in blackwater aquariums as it mimics natural tropical habitats.

It’s recommended to rinse and boil botanicals for 5–20 minutes before use. This helps clean them, reduces excess tannins, and helps them sink more quickly.

Yes, when properly prepared, botanicals are widely used in shrimp tanks, betta tanks, and community aquariums. Shrimp especially enjoy grazing on the biofilm that forms on them over time.

Most leaves and softer botanicals gradually break down over several weeks, while harder pods and cones can last for several months depending on the aquarium conditions and livestock.

The soft white or clear fuzzy growth that sometimes appears on leaves, pods, or wood is usually harmless biofilm. It’s a natural growth of bacteria and microorganisms that many shrimp and snails love to graze on. It normally disappears on its own over time.

Botanicals can slightly lower pH and soften the water by releasing tannins and organic acids, especially in smaller aquariums or soft water setups. The effect is usually gentle but it’s always best to monitor water parameters regularly.

It’s best to add botanicals gradually rather than all at once. Start with a small amount and increase slowly depending on the size of the aquarium and the level of tannins you want. This helps livestock adjust comfortably to any water changes.

About Code & Koi

Code & Koi is a small, UK based independent studio bringing together a love of aquatics, web development, and design. We curate and carefully select plants, hand craft botanical products, and source useful tools for aquarists who value balance, simplicity, and long-term health.