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Alder Cones – Aquarium Botanicals
Pods and wood

Alder Cones – Aquarium Botanicals

Alder Cones are small natural aquarium botanicals for shrimp, nano tanks, blackwater layouts and natural-style freshwater aquariums. They release gentle tannins, create warm tea-coloured water and provide biofilm grazing surfaces and micro-habitats.

From £2 8 options available. Choose a current option before adding to basket.
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Quick decision guide

Best fit

Best forSmall Botanical Detail, Gentle Tannin Support, Shrimp Grazing
Suitable livestockShrimp, Snails, Bettas, Small Community Fish
Tank size fitNano, Small, Medium, Large
Risk levelLow
Tannin levelGentle
Organic loadLow

What you receive

  • Choose from 8 current options.
  • 25 Alder Cones 1–3.5cm - Pack of 25 dried Alder Cones, approx. 1–3.5cm each
  • 50 Alder Cones 1–3.5cm - Pack of 50 dried Alder Cones, approx. 1–3.5cm each
  • 100 Alder Cones 1–3.5cm - Pack of 100 dried Alder Cones, approx. 1–3.5cm each
  • 200 Alder Cones 1–3.5cm - Pack of 200 dried Alder Cones, approx. 1–3.5cm each
  • 30g Alder Cones 1–3.5cm - 30g pack of dried Alder Cones, approx. 1–3.5cm each
  • 60g Alder Cones 1–3.5cm - 60g pack of dried Alder Cones, approx. 1–3.5cm each
  • 120g Alder Cones 1–3.5cm - 120g pack of dried Alder Cones, approx. 1–3.5cm each

How to prepare

  • Rinse briefly before use. Start with around 1 cone per 15–20 L and add more gradually if a darker tint is desired.
  • Preparation method: Rinse Then Hot Steep Or Brief Boil And Cool.
  • Small cones can still add organic load, so increase slowly.

How to start

  • Nano: Start with one or two cones, then observe.
  • Small: Start with a small cluster rather than a full handful.
  • Medium: Add a modest amount and build up gradually.
  • Large: Use in stages for tint and detail rather than all at once.

What to expect in 24-72 hours

  • A light amber tint and surface biofilm can appear. Floating is usually temporary.
  • Observe livestock, water clarity and smell for 24-72 hours after adding new botanicals.

Safety / do not use if

  • Start small in shrimp and nano aquariums.
  • Natural cone size and tint strength vary.
  • Do not use in unstable tanks or when livestock are already stressed.
  • No exact pH outcome is promised.
  • Not sold as livestock treatment.
  • Do not use if: Tank Is Unstable, Oxygen Is Already Low, You Need Exact Water Parameters.

Product FAQ

Will it sink?

Some botanicals float at first and settle over time. Soak or hot steep if you want a calmer start.

Will it tint the water?

It may add a visible botanical tint depending on dose, water chemistry and preparation.

Is it safe for shrimp?

Use gradually for shrimp tanks and observe livestock carefully for 24-72 hours.

How much should I start with?

Start with less than you think you need, then build up gradually after observing the tank.

Can I use it in a new tank?

Use extra caution in new or unstable tanks. Stable livestock and mature filtration come first.

Is it a medicine or pH product?

No. This is a natural aquarium botanical product, not medication and not an instant pH-control product.

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