Aquarium botanicals are natural materials that are added to aquariums to simulate the natural environment of aquatic creatures. These materials are typically dried plant parts, such as leaves, roots, and bark, or other natural materials, such as seed pods, cones, and wood. Aquarium botanicals can be used to create a range of different aquatic environments, from blackwater habitats to biotope aquariums.
Aquarium botanicals can have a range of benefits for aquatic creatures. For example, they can release tannins and other organic compounds into the water, which can lower the pH and create a more natural environment for some species. They can also provide hiding places and surfaces for beneficial bacteria to grow, which can help to improve water quality and support the health of the aquarium ecosystem.
Aquarium botanicals can be used in a variety of different ways, such as adding them directly to the aquarium water, using them to create aquascapes and natural-looking environments, or using them as a substrate for live plants. However, it is important to choose aquarium botanicals carefully and to avoid any materials that may be harmful to aquatic life or that may contain pesticides or other contaminants.