Each pod has a rounded ribbed form with strong natural texture and variation in colour, split, opening and surface detail. It works well in shrimp tanks, betta aquariums, botanical method setups, biotope-style layouts and natural blackwater aquariums.

Use Mintolla Ball among leaf litter, cones, bark, pods and wood to add a compact seed-pod structure. The ridged surface can become a grazing area once the botanical matures in the aquarium.

These are natural habitat and enrichment pieces, not medicines. Use them as part of a balanced botanical layout with stable water, mature filtration and normal aquarium care.

What you receive 1 × Mintolla Ball / Cerbera odollam seed pod Approx. size: 6–9cm, with natural variation. You receive one single botanical piece. Packed dry, small batch and labelled by Blackwater Botanical Aquariums.

Key benefits

1) Compact seed-pod structure The rounded ribbed form adds a strong natural pod detail without taking over the whole aquascape.

2) Natural cover and line-of-sight break Placed among leaves and wood, Mintolla Ball helps create calmer zones and natural cover points for shrimp, fry and shy fish.

3) Biofilm grazing surface The textured ridges and natural surface give biofilm a place to develop over time. Shrimp and snails often graze on botanical surfaces once they mature in the aquarium.

4) Micro-habitat detail Small splits, openings and ridges create grazing, shelter and exploration areas for shrimp, fry and small bottom dwellers.

5) Gentle tannins and humic substances Like many natural botanicals, Mintolla Ball may gradually release tannins and humic substances. The visible tint depends on the piece, tank size, KH, pH, filtration, water changes and how many botanicals are used.

6) Works in mixed botanical layouts Use as a compact detail pod around leaves, cones, bark and driftwood. It can also suit brackish-style or harder-water botanical layouts where a stronger pod texture is wanted.

How to use Rinse before use. Do not use soap or chemicals. Optional: pre-soak for 1–7 days to help sinking and reduce the initial tannin release. Add gradually, especially in soft water, low-KH systems or smaller aquariums. Place the pod where shrimp, fry or shy fish can explore, graze and shelter. Use with leaves, cones, bark and wood for a more natural botanical layout. White biofilm at first is normal and is often eaten by shrimp and snails. If any piece becomes unsightly, simply remove it and replace with a fresh one.

Best for Shrimp tanks and shrimp colonies Bettas and small peaceful fish Fry and juvenile fish shelter Blackwater and botanical method aquariums Natural biotope-style layouts Brackish-style and hardwater botanical layouts Leaf-litter scapes with wood, cones and pods Aquarists who want to build their own custom botanical mix

Important notes Natural products vary in colour, shape, size, split, opening and texture. Approximate size range is provided as a guide only. Some pieces may float at first and sink later. Pre-soaking can help. Botanicals may release tannins and soften the visual tone of the water. Effects vary depending on tank size, KH, pH, filtration and how much is used. Carbon, Purigen and some filtration media may reduce visible tannins and water colour. Botanicals are natural habitat and enrichment tools, not medicines. Not for human consumption.