Will this break down into mush after a year or two like other planted tank substrates?

I have multiple tanks where I've used potting soil that have been up 2 years. I've never used ferts either. Skip this junk and go true soil.

how long does it take for it to buffer the pH in the tank?

I purchased Fluval Stratum from a local pet store, who recommended it because of my tap water's parameters: 7.8 PH, 150 GH, and 180 KH. I added this substrate to my new tank in the evening. The next morning my PH was 6.2, maybe even lower. My test strips only go down to 6.2 PH. My GH 0, and KH 0. I have been testing the water for the past week and PH is 6.8 one day and back down to 6.2 the next. GH bounces between 0 and 25, and KH bounces between 0 and 40. I did an 80% water change two evenings ago but the next day, the water dropped back down to PH 6.2, GH 0, KH 0. This substrate was so expensive, that I hesitate to remove it and start over, but I will if water changes don't remedy the situation. Glad my fish are still in my old tank or they would probably be dead. My situation seems drastically different from other people's experience. If you purchase Fluval Stratum, I would put it in a bucket with some of your water and test it for a few days, before putting it in your tank and getting your tank all set up and planted.

I have a hard time keeping shrimp, will this help?

It's a good substrate for shrimp

Will hard decorations or rocks on top of this substrate crush it?

Not at all with my experience its the best substrate I ever use my plants look so healthy when I used it I definitely recommend it

Fully operational. Shipping worldwide, on schedule.Duty & taxes paid at delivery

Help Track order

Account Cart

Fully operational. Shipping worldwide, on schedule.Duty & taxes paid at delivery

Help Track order

Account Cart

Fluval Plant and Shrimp Stratum, 8 Kg

Product ID: 77332233

Details

Brand
Fluval
Item Weight
8.07 Kilograms
Item Form
Granules
Manufacturer
Rolf C Hagen
UPC
015561126953

🌋Mineral-rich volcanic soil

🌱Boosts strong plant growth

⚖️Neutral to mildly acidic pH

Buy anything from 5,000+ international stores. One checkout price. No surprise fees. Join 2M+ shoppers on Desertcart.

€ 739.96

Duties & taxes included

In stock

Sold byAmazon ItalyDelivered byDesertcartCustomer service byDesertcartReturns14 days · 30 with PRO

Buyer Protection · Full refund if your order doesn't arrive as described.

Desertcart purchases this item on your behalf and handles shipping, customs, and support to Italy.

Secure transaction

Details

Brand
Fluval
Item Weight
8.07 Kilograms
Item Form
Granules

Description

🌿 Elevate your aquatic garden with nature’s volcanic secret!

P H PERFECT - Maintains an ideal neutral to mildly acidic environment for plants and shrimp.
GROWTH CATALYST - Stimulates lush, healthy plant roots that thrive and transform your tank.
PREMIUM BULK PACK - 8 kg of top-tier granules—enough to upgrade your aquarium ecosystem with ease.
VOLCANIC POWERHOUSE - Harness the nutrient-packed volcanic soil for vibrant aquatic life.
DUAL PURPOSE SUBSTRATE - Engineered for both flourishing plants and happy, healthy shrimp.

Fluval Plant and Shrimp Stratum is an 8 kg premium volcanic soil substrate designed to enrich aquarium environments. It promotes strong plant growth and maintains a neutral to mildly acidic pH, ideal for both aquatic plants and shrimp. Trusted by thousands, it offers a cost-effective, nutrient-rich foundation to transform your tank into a thriving underwater ecosystem.

Specifications

ASIN	B00JMA9S52
Best Sellers Rank	#44,774 in Pet Supplies ( See Top 100 in Pet Supplies ) #473 in Filter Accessories
Brand	Fluval
Brand Name	Fluval
Customer Reviews	4.6 out of 5 stars 2,600 Reviews
Global Trade Identification Number	00015561126953
Importer Contact Information	Maple Pets International Private Limited
Item Form	Granules
Item Type Name	plant
Item Weight	8.07 Kilograms
Manufacturer	Rolf C Hagen Corp
Manufacturer Part Number	12695
Model Number	12695
Net Quantity	8000.0 Grams
Target Species	Shrimp
UPC	015561126953
Unit Count	8000.0 Grams

Reviews

R**N

13.10.2022

S**T

6.01.2020

S**Z

10.03.2019

R**N

1.11.2018

A**A

16.09.2018

P**A

16.08.2020

A**.

7.11.2018

S**Y

22.08.2020

A**R

27.11.2022

C**F

26.01.2026

Z**.

19.11.2025

N**E

9.03.2024

K**S

7.03.2026

Common Questions

Are the products genuine and authentic?+

Yes, all products are sourced directly from authorized retailers in the US, UK, UAE and India. We maintain strict quality control processes and verify each product before shipping. All items come with applicable manufacturer warranties and are covered by our standard return policy.

How long does delivery take and is it reliable?+

Delivery times vary by destination country, typically ranging from 3-9 business days. Each order is fully trackable through our system. We handle all customs clearance and use reliable courier partners for last-mile delivery. You'll receive regular updates about your order status via email and our app.

What is Desertcart? Is it safe to order from?+

Desertcart is an international e-commerce platform operating since 2014. We securely process thousands of orders globally each day. Every product goes through our quality verification process before delivery, and we provide end-to-end order tracking, 24/7 customer support, and a comprehensive returns policy to ensure a safe shopping experience.

How is product pricing calculated?+

Our prices include the product cost, international shipping, import duties, customs clearance, and local delivery charges. We handle all customs and import procedures, ensuring there are no hidden fees upon delivery. PRO members receive additional benefits including free shipping.

Trustpilot

TrustScore 4.5 | 7,300+ reviews

Abdullah B.

Great price for an authentic product. Fast international shipping too!

3 weeks ago

Meera L.

Smooth transaction and product arrived in perfect condition.

3 weeks ago

View all Trustpilot reviews

Shop Global, Save with Desertcart

Value for Money

Competitive prices on a vast range of products

Shop Globally

Serving millions of shoppers across more than 100 countries

Enhanced Protection

Trusted payment options loved by worldwide shoppers

Customer Assurance

Trusted payment options loved by worldwide shoppers.

Desertcart App

Shop on the go, anytime, anywhere.

Buy anything from 5,000+ international stores. One checkout price. No surprise fees. Join 2M+ shoppers on Desertcart.

€ 739.96

Duties & taxes included

In stock

Sold byAmazon ItalyDelivered byDesertcartCustomer service byDesertcartReturns14 days · 30 with PRO

Buyer Protection · Full refund if your order doesn't arrive as described.

Desertcart purchases this item on your behalf and handles shipping, customs, and support to Italy.

Secure transaction

Trustpilot

TrustScore 4.5 | 7,300+ reviews

Imran F.

Very reliable shop with genuine products. Will definitely buy again!

2 weeks ago

Farhan Q.

The delivery time was excellent, and the packaging was secure.

2 months ago

View all Trustpilot reviews