CaribSea Sugar‑Sized Aragonite Sand 13.6 kg
Product Description
CaribSea Sugar‑Sized Aragonite Sand is a premium reef substrate designed for marine and reef aquariums. Featuring a fine, consistent grain resembling natural ocean sand, it enhances the aesthetic of your tank while supporting stable water chemistry and healthy biological filtration.
Key Features
Natural aragonite sand with fine, sugar‑like grain
Designed for reef and marine aquarium use
Promotes beneficial bacteria colonization
Supports stable pH and carbonate buffering
Clean, natural appearance with subtle texture
Benefits
✅ Enhances the natural look of your aquarium✅ Supports biological filtration and beneficial bacteria✅ Helps maintain stable water chemistry✅ Safe for sand‑sifting and burrowing species✅ Improves overall tank health
Instructions for Use
Rinse sand with clean water (if required)
Spread evenly on the aquarium bottom
Arrange rockwork and décor before filling with water
Slowly fill the tank to minimise disturbance
Start filtration and let the aquarium cycle
Monitor water parameters before adding livestock
Aqua Soil is a premium natural substrate specially formulated for aquascaping and planted aquariums. It provides essential nutrients for healthy plant growth while maintaining water clarity and stability ,making it perfect for both plants and decorative aquariums.
Key Features
Rich in nutrients – promotes strong root development and vibrant plant growth.
Natural water conditioning – gently stabilizes pH for optimal aquatic health.
Porous structure – enhances water circulation within the substrate and supports beneficial bacteria.
Aesthetic dark color – creates a beautiful contrast that highlights plants, rocks, and decorations.
Ready to use – pre-rinsed and pre-conditioned; no need for washing before use.
Long-lasting – maintains shape and nutrients for extended aquarium stability.
Ideal For
Freshwater aquascapes
Community aquariums
Decorative aquariums with driftwood, stones, or ornaments
Aquatic plants (rooted or stem plants)
⚙️ How to Use
Spread Cay Aqua Soil evenly at the bottom of the aquarium (3–5 cm depth).
Slope substrate higher at the back for a natural perspective.
Add decorations, driftwood, and plants.
Fill aquarium slowly to avoid disturbing the soil.
Cycle the tank before introducing fish or shrimp.
Active substrate / soil, targeted at both shrimp (especially soft-water species) and aquatic plants.
Core benefits:
Lowers and stabilises pH to a slightly acidic level (~ 6.0-6.5).
Reduces carbonate hardness (KH) to ~0-2°d depending on source water.
Supplies trace minerals/humic & fulvic acids to support both plants and shrimp health.
Porous granules create good surface area for beneficial bacteria (important for shrimp bio-filtration).
Suitable Use Cases & Target Species
Ideal for shrimp species requiring soft, acidic water (e.g., bee shrimp, Crystal Reds, etc).
Suitable for planted tanks: root-friendly substrate, supports healthy plant growth.
Especially useful if you want one substrate that works for both shrimp & plants, which seems to be your goal.
Less suitable if you have species that prefer neutral to alkaline water (the substrate actively lowers pH).
Installation / Usage Tips (based on comparable products)
Place the substrate unwashed into the dry aquarium, to a depth of approx. 3-5 cm.
Fill with water carefully (so as not to disturb the substrate too much).
Cycle the tank before introducing shrimp especially with active soils, you may get an initial spike in ammonia or changes in water chemistry.
Monitor pH, KH, and GH (general hardness) especially in the first weeks to ensure stability.
Since the substrate gradually buffers the water, the effect will diminish over time (2+ years depending on use and water hardness). See hobbyist feedback.
Ceratopteris Cornuta, commonly known as Water Sprite, is a beautiful and fast-growing aquatic fern loved by aquarists for its lacy, bright green foliage and flexible use. Whether planted in substrate or floating at the surface, Water Sprite adds texture, depth, and natural shelter to any freshwater aquarium.
✅ Quick Specs:
Scientific Name: Ceratopteris cornuta
Common Name: Water Sprite
Growth Height: 20–50 cm
Lighting: Low to High
CO₂: Not required
Temperature: 22–28°C
Placement: Midground, Background, or Floating
Growth Rate: Fast
Skill Level: Beginner-friendly
🌱 Why You'll Love It:
Grows fast and adapts easily
Can be planted or floated—ideal for all setups
Excellent for fry and shrimp hiding spots
Helps absorb excess nutrients and reduce algae
Adds lush, feathery texture to aquascapes
💡 Care Tips:
Works in both low-tech and high-tech tanks
Trim regularly to manage size and encourage bushy growth
Float it for a natural canopy or plant in nutrient-rich substrate
Easy to propagate from side shoots or floating plantlets
📦 Sold Individually – Healthy and Ready for Planting or Floating!Perfect for planted tanks, community aquariums, breeding setups, and beginners.
Ceratopteris Siliquosa is a delicate and fast-growing aquatic fern that adds a wild, natural look to any aquarium. With its finely divided, lace-like green leaves, this plant creates soft movement in the water and serves as excellent cover for small fish and shrimp.
Ideal for floating or rooted setups, Ceratopteris Siliquosa thrives in a wide range of tank conditions and is especially valued for its ability to absorb excess nutrients and reduce algae growth.
✅ Quick Specs:
Scientific Name: Ceratopteris siliquosa
Common Name: Water Fern
Height: 20–50 cm
Lighting: Low to Medium
CO₂: Not required (beneficial)
Temperature: 22–28°C
Placement: Floating, Midground, or Background
Growth Rate: Fast
Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced
🌱 Why You'll Love It:
Beautiful lace-like foliage for a soft, natural look
Can be used as a floating plant or rooted in substrate
Provides shade, cover, and biofilm for fry and shrimp
Grows quickly and helps improve water quality
Great for jungle-style or low-tech tanks
💡 Care Tips:
Grows well under moderate light; no CO₂ needed
Float it to create a green canopy or plant it for structure
Remove older leaves and thin out to avoid crowding
Propagates easily from plantlets or shoots
📦 Sold Individually – Farm-Grown and Ready for Aquascaping!Perfect for planted tanks, shrimp colonies, natural aquascapes, and nutrient control.
What a Chinese Algae Eater (CAE) Really Is
A hardy, fast-growing freshwater fish from Southeast Asia.
Often sold small (2–3 inches) but can grow to 10–12 inches.
Not actually the best algae eater once mature.
Behavior
When young: Eats algae regularly and is peaceful.
When older:
Eats less algae and prefers prepared foods.
Can become territorial and aggressive, especially toward slow or flat-sided fish (like angelfish, goldfish, gouramis).
Known to sometimes suck slime coats off tankmates.
Tank Requirements
Minimum tank size: 40+ gallons (larger if adults).
Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
pH: 6.5–7.5
Strong filtration + good water flow.
Provide caves or driftwood for hiding.
Diet
Algae (when young)
Algae wafers
Sinking pellets
Blanched veggies (zucchini, cucumber)
Occasional protein (bloodworms, brine shrimp)
Good Tankmates
Fast, robust fish that can handle some territorial behavior:
Barbs
Danios
Loaches
Larger tetras
Rainbowfish
CHINESE TEMPLE ORNAMENT
Overview
Bring tranquility and ancient beauty to your aquarium with the Chinese Temple Ornament — a beautifully detailed piece inspired by traditional Asian architecture. Designed to create a sense of peace and balance, this ornament transforms your aquarium into a serene underwater temple scene that both you and your fish will love.
Perfect for planted tanks, community aquariums, or themed aquascapes, the Chinese Temple Ornament offers visual appeal while providing safe hiding and resting spaces for fish and shrimp.
Key Features
🏯 Elegant temple design: Modeled after authentic Chinese pagodas with intricate detailing and stone textures.🐠 Fish-safe construction: Made from non-toxic, durable resin that’s safe for all aquarium life.🌿 Functional décor: Offers caves and shaded areas to reduce fish stress.💧 Easy to clean: Simple to rinse and maintain for long-term use.🌊 Versatile placement: Suitable for both freshwater and marine aquariums.
Specifications
Product Name: Chinese Temple Ornament
Material: High-quality, non-toxic resin
Style: Traditional Chinese architecture
Use: Aquarium decoration
Suitable for: Freshwater & saltwater tanks
Benefits
Enhances your aquarium’s aesthetic with cultural and natural flair.
Provides shelter and hiding spots for fish and shrimp.
Adds depth and dimension to aquascapes.
Durable build ensures long-lasting beauty underwater.
Usage Tips
Rinse with aquarium water before placing inside the tank.
Avoid using soaps or chemicals during cleaning.
Pair with bonsai driftwood, lava rocks, or aquatic plants for a peaceful Zen-style aquascape.
💡 Aquatic Pets SA Tip: Combine the Chinese Temple Ornament with Tower Ornament Grass Roof – XY-048 and Lava Rock Filter Media for a stunning Asian-inspired natural aquascape setup.
Meta Title (Shopify SEO): Chinese Temple Ornament | Aquarium Decoration | Aquatic Pets SAMeta Description: Create a peaceful, oriental-inspired aquascape with the Chinese Temple Ornament. Fish-safe, durable, and beautifully detailed. Available now at Aquatic Pets SA.
🌿 Echinodorus Palaefolius – Upright Elegance for Background Impact
Echinodorus Palaefolius is a tall, upright-growing sword plant with long, narrow green leaves that arch gracefully toward the water surface. Native to South America, this plant brings structure and movement to the background of large aquariums or open-top tanks, and it can grow emersed in shallow setups, often producing beautiful flowers.
Perfect for aquarists who want a natural, riverbank aesthetic or a bold vertical element in planted aquascapes.
✅ Quick Specs:
Scientific Name: Echinodorus palaefolius
Common Names: Narrow Leaf Sword, Wild Plantain Sword
Height: 40–60+ cm
Lighting: Medium to High
CO₂: Optional but enhances growth
Temperature: 20–28°C
Placement: Background
Growth Rate: Fast
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
🌱 Why You'll Love It:
Graceful, long leaves provide a vertical, natural feel
Great for large aquariums or pond-style tanks
Can transition between submerged and emersed growth
Excellent shade and shelter for fish and shrimp
Adds height and elegance without overwhelming the aquascape
💡 Care Tips:
Use nutrient-rich substrate for strong root development
May grow above the water line in open-top setups
Prune older leaves to maintain shape and encourage new growth
Suitable for biotope, river-style, and jungle-style layouts
Allow space—this plant can grow tall and wide
📦 Sold Individually – Rooted and Aquascape-Ready!Ideal for planted displays, background coverage, and natural freshwater scapes.
Bring a natural, festive touch to your aquarium with Christmas Moss (Vesicularia montagnei) – one of the most popular and visually striking aquatic mosses available at Aquatic Pets SA.
Christmas Moss gets its name from its unique, layered growth pattern that resembles the branches of a Christmas tree. Its rich green colour and dense structure make it perfect for creating lush aquascapes, covering driftwood, rocks, or even forming beautiful moss walls and carpets.
This hardy and versatile plant is ideal for both beginners and experienced aquascapers. It thrives in a wide range of water conditions and does not require CO₂ injection, although added CO₂ and good lighting will encourage faster, fuller growth. Christmas Moss also provides excellent shelter for shrimp, fry, and small fish, making it a functional as well as decorative addition to any tank.
🌿 Why Choose Christmas Moss?
Distinctive “Christmas tree” growth pattern
Deep green colour enhances any aquascape
Easy to grow and maintain
Attaches easily to wood, rocks, and décor
Provides shelter for shrimp and baby fish
Suitable for low-tech and high-tech aquariums
📏 Care Requirements
Lighting: Low to medium
CO₂: Not required (optional for faster growth)
Growth Rate: Moderate
Placement: Foreground, midground, or attached to hardscape
Temperature: 20–28°C
pH: 5.5–7.5
💡 Aquascaping Tips
For best results, attach Christmas Moss to driftwood or rocks using cotton thread or aquarium-safe glue. Regular trimming will keep its signature layered shape neat and encourage denser growth.
Create a lush, natural underwater landscape with Christmas Moss from Aquatic Pets SA – perfect for adding texture, depth, and life to your aquarium.
Golden Severum
Scientific Name: Heros severus (Gold/Golden morph)
Common Name: Golden Severum, Gold Severum
Family: Cichlidae
Origin: South America (Amazon Basin)
Size: 6–8 inches (15–20 cm), sometimes up to 10 inches
Lifespan: 5–10 years (with proper care)
🌟 Appearance
Vibrant golden-yellow body with subtle orange hues.
Rounded body shape, long fins.
Eyes may appear reddish.
Some may show faint vertical bars or iridescent spots.
🧠 Temperament and Behavior
Semi-aggressive, especially during breeding.
Generally more peaceful than many large cichlids.
Can be kept with other robust, similarly sized fish—but avoid small or overly aggressive tankmates.
Intelligent and personable; they often recognize and interact with their owners.
🏡 Tank Requirements
Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons for one; 75+ gallons for a pair or community.
Water Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
pH: 6.0–7.5
Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (4–15 dGH)
Tank Setup:
Sand or fine gravel substrate.
Hiding spots: driftwood, caves, rocks.
Hardy plants (they may uproot or nibble softer plants).
Moderate filtration and regular water changes are essential.
🍽️ Diet
Omnivorous: Accepts high-quality pellets, flakes, and fresh or frozen foods.
Supplement with:
Vegetables (blanched spinach, peas, zucchini)
Protein (bloodworms, brine shrimp, krill)
A varied diet helps maintain vibrant color and health.
🐣 Breeding
Golden Severums form monogamous pairs.
They lay eggs on flat surfaces (rocks, broad leaves).
Both parents guard the eggs and fry.
Breeding can be aggressive—best done in a separate tank.
🤝 Tank Mates
Choose peaceful to semi-aggressive, similarly sized fish, such as:
Silver Dollars
Large Tetras (e.g., Congo Tetras)
Angelfish (with caution)
Plecos (bristlenose, rubberlip)
Other peaceful cichlids (e.g., Keyholes, Firemouths)
Cichlid Lake Salt
Cichlid Lake Salt is a specialised blend of mineral salts formulated to replicate the natural water conditions of African Rift Lakes where many cichlids come from. It’s made to provide essential minerals without harmful additives often found in generic aquarium salts.
Why It’s Used
Adds essential minerals like magnesium, calcium, potassium, and sodium, plus trace elements like iron and iodide — all important for fish health.
Helps mimic the hard, mineral-rich water cichlids evolved in, which can reduce stress and support health.
Unlike some other salts, it’s not just Epsom salt or baking soda—it’s specifically balanced for cichlid needs.
How It’s Used
You add it when:
Setting up a new tank
Doing water changes (to maintain mineral levels)It’s not for replacing evaporated water.
Dosage (per ~40 L of water):
Tanganyika cichlids: ~11 g (about 1.5 tsp)
Malawi cichlids: ~5.5 g (¾ tsp)
Victoria cichlids: ~3.6 g (½ tsp)These amounts help adjust general hardness (GH) closer to natural levels.
Important Notes
It adjusts hardness but doesn’t buffer pH so you might need a separate buffer if you want to hit specific pH target. Best dissolved in freshwater before adding to your tank.
Great for hobbyists keeping African cichlids (e.g., Malawi, Tanganyika, Victoria species) who want water chemistry closer to their natural habitats.
Oscar Cichlid
Scientific Name: Astronotus ocellatus
Common Names: Oscar, Tiger Oscar, Albino Oscar
Family: Cichlidae
Origin: South America – Amazon River basin
Size: 10–12 inches (25–30 cm), occasionally up to 14"
Lifespan: 10–15 years (with proper care)
🔥 Varieties
Variety
Appearance
Tiger Oscar
Dark body with bright orange-red patterns (tiger-like), very striking.
Albino Oscar
Pale white to yellowish body with red or orange markings; red/pink eyes.
🎨 Other Oscar morphs include Red Oscar, Lemon Oscar, and Veil Tail Oscar, but Tiger and Albino are among the most common.
🧠 Personality & Behavior
Highly intelligent, trainable (can be hand-fed, may recognize owners).
Can be aggressive or territorial, especially in confined spaces.
Need lots of space — they're messy and fast-growing.
Best kept solo, in pairs, or with carefully selected tank mates.
🏡 Tank Requirements
Tank Size:
55 gallons for 1 Oscar (minimum)
75–100+ gallons for 2 Oscars or with tankmates
Temperature: 74–81°F (23–27°C)
pH: 6.0–7.5
Hardness: Soft to moderate (3–15 dGH)
Tank Setup:
Sand or fine gravel substrate
Heavy-duty filtration (Oscars are messy eaters)
Hiding spots (rocks, driftwood), but they may rearrange decor
Live plants usually get uprooted or destroyed — use tough or fake plants
🍽️ Diet
Omnivorous:
High-quality cichlid pellets (main diet)
Frozen or live foods: bloodworms, krill, earthworms
Occasional vegetables: peas, spinach (blanched)
Avoid: feeder fish (risk of parasites), fatty meats
Feed 1–2 times daily in small portions to avoid water pollution.
🐣 Breeding
Oscars form monogamous pairs and lay eggs on flat surfaces.
Breeding in captivity is possible, but aggression increases during spawning.
Both parents will defend the eggs and fry.
🤝 Tank Mates (with Caution)
Choose tank mates that are:
Large enough not to be eaten
Tough enough to withstand mild aggression
Not overly aggressive themselves
Suitable tank mates:
Severum Cichlids
Silver Dollars
Large Plecos
Firemouths
Jack Dempseys (if tank is big enough)