Alder Cones
$11.00
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Description
Alder cones are the small, woody seed cones of the alder tree. They are used in the same way as catappa leaves: they release tannins, natural plant compounds that tint the water and gently lower pH, and as they soften they grow biofilm, the microbe layer that shrimp graze on. Being small and dense they are easy to dose a few at a time, and they keep releasing tannins for around a month before they are spent.
Key Benefits
- Easy to dose precisely, cone by cone
- Release tannins for around a month per cone
- Small enough for nano tanks and breeder boxes
Usage & Instructions
Start with about one cone per 20 litres and adjust from there once you see the tint. Rinse first. Cones float for a few days, so soak them in a cup of tank water until they sink or wedge them under hardscape. Replace spent cones or leave them for shrimp to pick apart.
Risk & Awareness
Alder cones are more concentrated than leaves, so add them gradually and check pH, particularly in soft water with low KH where pH can move quickly. The tint can go from yellow to dark brown if many are used. Only use cones sold for aquarium use so there is no pesticide or road-side contamination.
Delivery & returns
Dispatch & delivery
Check our shipping policy for dispatch and delivery information.
Check before opening
Opened products cannot be returned for change of mind. Check the item and its compatibility before opening or using it. For unopened change-of-mind requests, see our refund policy.
Use safely
Follow the product instructions, recommended dosage where applicable, and compatibility guidance. Damage caused by misuse is not a product fault.
If something is wrong
Contact us with your order details and a description of the issue. Keep the item and packaging where practical so we can assess it.
These conditions do not exclude or limit your rights under the Australian Consumer Law, including remedies for faulty, damaged or misdescribed goods. A request for prompt contact or photos does not impose a time limit on those rights.
Read our refund policy →
