What is Fluval Plant and Shrimp Stratum? Fluval Plant and Shrimp Stratum is a substrate with a slightly acidic ph which is ideal for most plants, tropical fish and shrimp normally kept in planted freshwater aquariums. It helps control organic discolouration and provides newborn shrimp with a refuge from predators. This mineral-rich volcanic soil is particularly good for use with natural driftwood as it will stop organic discolouration without removing the key nutrients from the wood. This soil is also beneficial for aquatic plants as plant roots easily penetrate and spread throughout, receiving the specially formulated Fluval plant micro-nutrients. What are the benefits of this substrate? This highly attractive substrate has been collected from the mineral-rich foothills of the Mount Aso Volcano in Japan, making it an ideal alternative substrate for planted aquariums and those featuring shrimp. The unique volcanic minerals in Fluval Plant & Shrimp Stratum encourage really strong plant growth as the vast porous surface of the stratum is ideal for most plant species. The porous structure of this Fluval stratum also allows for the rapid colonisation of beneficial nitrifying bacteria which will help out to ensure optimal water quality is achieved and maintained.