The manufacturer informs:

COLOUR substrate BLACK based on fine particulate volcanic ash (~3mm).

Overview

Natural volcanic ash with beneficial properties for plant growth and long-term care of fish and invertebrates requiring water conditions with low GH and slight acidity.

Ideal for use as substrate in biotope aquaria for shrimps.

It binds elements that increase hardness, lowering GH and producing slight acidification of alkaline water at a pH below 7. 

Used as a primary substrate, it provides a stable growth base for aquarium plants with roots through:

1. the development of a strong root system.

2. the support of nutrient uptake through the roots by means of increased interstitial water circulation (compared to high-density substrates) and an acidic pH environment.

3. the ability of the roots to remain sufficiently oxygenated, keeping the plants healthy.

Technical Background

In wooded and riverine areas, the concentration of nutrients in the water column tends to be low per se, and most of the nutrients are concentrated in the substrate that makes up the river bottom; these nutrients are mainly present as a result of the continuous accumulation of mineral and organic sediments carried by the current upstream to downstream. The water chemistry in these river environments tends to be slightly to moderately acidic and generally low in elements that contribute to total hardness (GH). The plants endemic to these locations, which make up the majority of the species commonly grown in aquaria, obtain a considerable percentage of their nutrients through their roots; it is therefore correct to employ a substrate for their growth that facilitates the supply of nutrients to the roots and at the same time fortifies the growth of the root system and the long-term health of the plants.

Maintaining plants, fish and invertebrates (such as the various species of shrimps bred in aquaria dedicated to them or as algae eaters) endemic to these areas in water conditions similar to those in which they evolved, especially in terms of pH and mineral content, is just as likely to have a positive effect on their health. FlorinVolcanīt Rio Escuro-F is composed of natural volcanic ash that has taken the form of oblong bead-like particles. The beads are solid yet flexible and are strong enough to retain their shape for one or more years, depending on the specific chemistry of the water in the system (a water that tends to be alkaline will deteriorate the material more quickly than a less alkaline water to begin with). Rio Escuro-XF gradually lowers GH and pH to recreate favourable conditions for long-term management of plants, fish and invertebrates endemic to rainforest streams, rivers and ponds.

Instructions and Guidelines

It is generally not necessary to rinse Rio Escuro-F before placing it in a new aquarium; as this is a natural material, it is possible that there may be 

packing small pieces of wood. Consult a reliable source of information for the specific substrate depth requirements of the plants you are going to host and proceed according to those guidelines. Ensure the aquarium is empty and clean (if added to aquaria already filled with water, it will temporarily make it cloudy). Add Rio Escuro-F up to the desired substrate height; if desired the substrate can be tilted from the front glass towards the back glass. Mineral sand can be used to improve the appearance of the layout if desired. Prepare a sufficient volume of water to fill the system by adjusting the pH-value, alkalinity and hardness. Slowly add enough water to the aquarium to barely cover the substrate, then start planting and, when finished, slowly refill the entire aquarium to the desired level with the remaining water. Due to the semi-open structure of the substrate and the resulting increased diffusion of water through it, liquid supplements and fertilisers can be used instead of solid products, with maximum control of water chemistry and best results. The quickest way to initiate colonisation of the seabed by beneficial bacteria is by using FlorinBacter according to the recommended instructions. The other fertilisers in the Florin line can be used as required. Over time, the neutralising capacity of Rio Escuro diminishes and the substrate can be replaced as deisdered. The use of alkalinity buffers and pH-increasing products will accelerate substrate deterioration. Do not use with under-sand filters.

Attention: Keep out of reach of children. Not suitable for human use. Discard empty bag as it may cause choking.