---
product_id: 20009236
title: "Fluval 12695 Plant and Shrimp Stratum for Freshwater Fish Tanks, 17.6 lbs. – Aquarium Substrate for Strong Plant Growth, Supports Neutral to Slightly Acidic pH"
brand: "fluval"
price: "€ 256.91"
currency: EUR
in_stock: false
reviews_count: 10
category: "Fluval"
url: https://www.desertcart.com.cy/products/20009236-fluval-12695-plant-and-shrimp-stratum-for-freshwater-fish-tanks
store_origin: CY
region: Cyprus
---

# 17.6 lbs nutrient-rich volcanic soil Safe shrimp refuge & predator shield Maintains neutral to slightly acidic pH Fluval 12695 Plant and Shrimp Stratum for Freshwater Fish Tanks, 17.6 lbs. – Aquarium Substrate for Strong Plant Growth, Supports Neutral to Slightly Acidic pH

**Brand:** fluval
**Price:** € 256.91
**Availability:** ❌ Out of Stock

## Summary

> 🌿 Elevate your planted tank game — where science meets stunning aquascapes!

## Quick Answers

- **What is this?** Fluval 12695 Plant and Shrimp Stratum for Freshwater Fish Tanks, 17.6 lbs. – Aquarium Substrate for Strong Plant Growth, Supports Neutral to Slightly Acidic pH by fluval
- **How much does it cost?** € 256.91 with free shipping
- **Is it available?** Currently out of stock
- **Where can I buy it?** [www.desertcart.com.cy](https://www.desertcart.com.cy/products/20009236-fluval-12695-plant-and-shrimp-stratum-for-freshwater-fish-tanks)

## Best For

- fluval enthusiasts

## Why This Product

- Trusted fluval brand quality
- Free international shipping included
- Worldwide delivery with tracking
- 15-day hassle-free returns

## Key Features

- • **Shrimp’s Safe Haven:** Provides newborn shrimp a secure shelter, enhancing survival rates in your thriving aquatic community.
- • **Optimal Water Chemistry:** Engineered to sustain ideal pH balance (neutral to slightly acidic) for plants, fish, and shrimp health.
- • **Bioactive Bacteria Magnet:** Porous structure accelerates beneficial nitrifying bacteria colonization, ensuring crystal-clear, healthy water.
- • **No-Mess, No-Fade Aesthetic:** Prevents water discoloration even with driftwood décor, keeping your tank vibrant and Instagram-ready.
- • **Boost Your Aquascape Growth:** Porous volcanic substrate enables rapid root penetration and nutrient uptake for lush, oversized plants.

## Overview

Fluval 12695 Plant and Shrimp Stratum is a 17.6 lb premium volcanic soil substrate designed for freshwater planted aquariums. It promotes vigorous plant growth through easy root penetration and nutrient availability, supports a neutral to slightly acidic pH ideal for tropical fish and shrimp, and fosters rapid colonization of beneficial nitrifying bacteria. Additionally, it offers newborn shrimp a safe refuge and prevents water discoloration, making it a must-have for bioactive, visually striking aquatic ecosystems.

## Description

Fluval Stratum is the ideal aquarium substrate for stimulating the growth of aquatic plants in freshwater aquariums. Plant roots easily penetrate and spread throughout the substrate, allowing live aquarium plants to obtain a variety of key, readily available nutrients that will make them flourish. The addition of Fluval Plant Micronutrients will ensure a full complement of essential macro and micro. The substrate's light, non-compacting, porous structure is also highly beneficial to nitrifying bacteria, which rapidly colonize the vast porous surface, providing optimal aquarium water quality for real plants. Fluval Stratum's inherent properties will help support a neutral to slightly acidic pH, ideal for most plant species and species of tropical fish or shrimp normally kept in planted aquariums. Fluval Stratum also provides new aquarium shrimp with the ideal refuge, allowing them to escape predation until they are large enough to emerge into the shrimp tank. This highly attractive substrate will not discolor water and helps control organic discoloration usually present when natural driftwood aquarium décor is used. For more fish tank accessories check out the other Fluval products including Fluval aquariums, aquarium filters, filter media, aquarium heaters, aquarium air pumps, aquarium lights, fake plants, aquarium thermometer, fish food, aquarium gravel, planted aquarium tools, fish tank decorations and aquarium stands. Fluval has a wide variety of products that are perfect for your pet fish, shrimp, or betta fish to enjoy in any large fish tank, small fish tank, freshwater tank or in a saltwater tank. The Fluval Plant and Shrimp Stratum is the perfect substrate for planted aquariums and is available in multiple sizes; available as a 4.4 lb. bag, an 8.8 lb. bag and a 17.6 lb. bag.

Review: Mandatory Element in my tanks - This has become a standard in my substrates, I blend it in with gravel, sand, whatever type I'm setting up. Planted tanks are the only way I roll, fully bioactive, and (virtually) changeless system set-up; soil is vital to plants and plants are vital to the chemistry. I've 2 products from this brand and I'm not inclined to change unless a real good reason manifests to do so. Neither product is what one may call 'cheap,' but it's certainly worth the money, my aquatic plants are so healthy that some specimens are abnormally big and have been a challenge to identify. (some of my seed stock didn't have anything but Chinese on the labels, so I had to wait until they grew to get them identified correctly.) The success I'm having with my tanks seems almost uncanny given I'm still something of a "newbie," these are my first tanks, all are less than a year old, and to have nailed it on the complete and healthy ecosystem model like a pro is testament to how great the science is developed and disseminated - and to the quality of products. Soil is everything, whether in my garden beds, potted plants, or aquatics - same rules apply. As I've said many times already, my water quality tests are always so spot on that it looks like I'm 'cheating,' and this stuff is one of the ingredients achieving all that.
Review: Perfect Soil for Planted Tank. Don't Pre-Rinse - This stuff is great, little pricey but you get what you pay for. I thought it would be messy but the small balls hold up well provided you don't crush them. Shrimp and fish health are not affected by it and boy does it look good in the tank. Plants love it and fish prefer it, especially when compared to bright gravels... The 1st picture was when I first started the tank with the soil and 2nd pic is 3 months later. I've had other tanks with sand/gravel...this soil makes a difference! Big tip: Place a small lid or use a paper towel to block water flow when initially filling up your tank. Minimize your splashing. Also I highly suggest you DO NOT pre-rinse this soil. I know the directions say so but don't do it. Big mess and unnecessary. As long as you don't pour big buckets of water on the soil your tank will clear up quickly. If you are going for a natural planted tank this is your soil.

## Features

- Promotes Robust Plant Growth: Stratum fosters vigorous plant development by facilitating easy root penetration and nutrient absorption, aiding in the acquisition of vital nutrients essential for growth
- Facilitates Rapid and Beneficial Colonization: Its porous structure enables swift colonization of beneficial nitrifying organisms, fostering a healthy aquatic environment crucial for the well-being of aquarium inhabitants
- Maintains Optimal pH Levels: Designed to sustain a neutral to slightly acidic pH range, ideal for supporting the growth of various plants, tropical fish, and shrimp commonly found in planted aquarium setups
- Offers Shelter for Newborn Shrimp: Stratum provides a safe haven for newborn shrimp, offering protection from potential predators until they reach a size where emerging into the main aquarium is viable
- Preserves Water Quality: Ensures water clarity by preventing discoloration and effectively manages organic discoloration, especially in the presence of natural driftwood, while being specifically formulated for use in freshwater aquariums

## Technical Specifications

| Specification | Value |
|---------------|-------|
| ASIN | B00JMA9S52 |
| ASIN  | B00JMA9S52 |
| Age Range Description | All Life Stages |
| Best Sellers Rank | #2,433 in Pet Supplies ( See Top 100 in Pet Supplies ) #2 in Aquarium Gravel #24 in Aquarium Décor |
| Brand Name | Fluval |
| Color | Stratum |
| Customer Reviews | 4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars (17,114) |
| Date First Available | July 18, 2014 |
| Date First Available  | July 18, 2014 |
| Directions | Follow individual packaging instructions. |
| Included Components | All Items listed in Description |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer  | No |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 4.5 x 12 x 19 inches |
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 18.9 x 12.4 x 3.74 inches |
| Item Weight | 8.07 Kilograms |
| Item model number | 12695 |
| Item model number  | 12695 |
| Manufacturer | Rolf C. Hagen (USA) Corp. |
| Manufacturer  | Rolf C. Hagen (USA) Corp. |
| Manufacturer recommended age  | 1 month and up |
| Material | Volcanic Soil |
| Model Name | HAGEN PLANT&SHRIMP STRATUM 8KG |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Product Dimensions  | 4.5 x 12 x 19 inches; 17.8 Pounds |
| Size | 17.6 Pound (Pack of 1) |
| Specific Uses for Product | Indoor |
| Style | Substrate |
| Target Audience Keyword | fish |
| Warranty Description | Manufacturer warranty. |

## Product Details

- **Brand:** Fluval
- **Item Form:** Granules
- **Item Weight:** 8.07 Kilograms
- **Manufacturer:** Rolf C. Hagen (USA) Corp.
- **UPC:** 015561126953

## Images

![Fluval 12695 Plant and Shrimp Stratum for Freshwater Fish Tanks, 17.6 lbs. – Aquarium Substrate for Strong Plant Growth, Supports Neutral to Slightly Acidic pH - Image 1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71glBJWuJ7L.jpg)
![Fluval 12695 Plant and Shrimp Stratum for Freshwater Fish Tanks, 17.6 lbs. – Aquarium Substrate for Strong Plant Growth, Supports Neutral to Slightly Acidic pH - Image 2](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91GSBYpMhqL.jpg)
![Fluval 12695 Plant and Shrimp Stratum for Freshwater Fish Tanks, 17.6 lbs. – Aquarium Substrate for Strong Plant Growth, Supports Neutral to Slightly Acidic pH - Image 3](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91AeSdeomVL.jpg)
![Fluval 12695 Plant and Shrimp Stratum for Freshwater Fish Tanks, 17.6 lbs. – Aquarium Substrate for Strong Plant Growth, Supports Neutral to Slightly Acidic pH - Image 4](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91+6ib5KBCL.jpg)
![Fluval 12695 Plant and Shrimp Stratum for Freshwater Fish Tanks, 17.6 lbs. – Aquarium Substrate for Strong Plant Growth, Supports Neutral to Slightly Acidic pH - Image 5](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91RH-snQjNL.jpg)

## Available Options

This product comes in different **Color, Size, Style** options.

## Questions & Answers

**Q: Will this break down into mush after a year or two like other planted tank substrates?**
A: I have multiple tanks where I've used potting soil that have been up 2 years. I've never used ferts either. Skip this junk and go true soil.

**Q: how long does it take for it to buffer the pH in the tank?**
A: I purchased Fluval Stratum from a local pet store, who recommended it because of my tap water's parameters: 7.8 PH, 150 GH, and 180 KH. I added this substrate to my new tank in the evening.  The next morning my PH was 6.2, maybe even lower.  My test strips only go down to 6.2 PH.  My GH 0, and KH 0.  I have been testing the water for the past week and PH is 6.8 one day and back down to 6.2 the next.  GH bounces between 0 and 25, and KH bounces between 0 and 40.  I did an 80% water change two evenings ago but the next day, the water dropped back down to PH 6.2, GH 0, KH 0.  This substrate was so expensive, that I hesitate to remove it and start over, but I will if water changes don't remedy the situation.  Glad my fish are still in my old tank or they would probably be dead.  My situation seems drastically different from other people's experience.  If you purchase Fluval Stratum, I would put it in a bucket with some of your water and test it for a few days, before putting it in your tank and getting your tank all set up and planted.

**Q: I have a hard time keeping shrimp, will this help?**
A: It's a good substrate for shrimp

**Q: Will hard decorations or rocks on top of this substrate crush it?**
A: Not at all with my experience its the best substrate I ever use my plants look so healthy when I used it I definitely recommend it

## Customer Reviews

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Mandatory Element in my tanks
*by W***M on July 25, 2025*

This has become a standard in my substrates, I blend it in with gravel, sand, whatever type I'm setting up. Planted tanks are the only way I roll, fully bioactive, and (virtually) changeless system set-up; soil is vital to plants and plants are vital to the chemistry. I've 2 products from this brand and I'm not inclined to change unless a real good reason manifests to do so. Neither product is what one may call 'cheap,' but it's certainly worth the money, my aquatic plants are so healthy that some specimens are abnormally big and have been a challenge to identify. (some of my seed stock didn't have anything but Chinese on the labels, so I had to wait until they grew to get them identified correctly.) The success I'm having with my tanks seems almost uncanny given I'm still something of a "newbie," these are my first tanks, all are less than a year old, and to have nailed it on the complete and healthy ecosystem model like a pro is testament to how great the science is developed and disseminated - and to the quality of products. Soil is everything, whether in my garden beds, potted plants, or aquatics - same rules apply. As I've said many times already, my water quality tests are always so spot on that it looks like I'm 'cheating,' and this stuff is one of the ingredients achieving all that.

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Perfect Soil for Planted Tank. Don't Pre-Rinse
*by J***. on December 16, 2025*

This stuff is great, little pricey but you get what you pay for. I thought it would be messy but the small balls hold up well provided you don't crush them. Shrimp and fish health are not affected by it and boy does it look good in the tank. Plants love it and fish prefer it, especially when compared to bright gravels... The 1st picture was when I first started the tank with the soil and 2nd pic is 3 months later. I've had other tanks with sand/gravel...this soil makes a difference! Big tip: Place a small lid or use a paper towel to block water flow when initially filling up your tank. Minimize your splashing. Also I highly suggest you DO NOT pre-rinse this soil. I know the directions say so but don't do it. Big mess and unnecessary. As long as you don't pour big buckets of water on the soil your tank will clear up quickly. If you are going for a natural planted tank this is your soil.

### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ So nice for fish tanks!! 🐟💕🐟💕
*by L***A on December 28, 2025*

This is such a nice substrate for fish tanks!! The color is so earthy and looks VERY nice with green and live plants! 💚 There is no weird smell odor that comes from it. It is also very safe for fish because it is very small so they will not get stuck and injured. Overall AWESOME substrate and I would HIGHLY recommend this to all fish keepers!! 💕🐟💚

## Frequently Bought Together

- Fluval 12695 Plant and Shrimp Stratum for Freshwater Fish Tanks, 17.6 lbs. – Aquarium Substrate for Strong Plant Growth, Supports Neutral to Slightly Acidic pH
- API FRESHWATER MASTER TEST KIT 800-Test Freshwater Aquarium Water Master Test Kit, White, Single, Multi-colored
- API ROOT TABS Freshwater Aquarium Plant Fertilizer 0.4-Ounce 10-Count Box

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---

*Product available on Desertcart Cyprus*
*Store origin: CY*
*Last updated: 2026-03-02*