Nature Boys Casuarina Cones

Nature Boys Casuarina Cones

Nature Boys Casuarina Cones are natural botanical cones that release tannins and humic acids into freshwater aquariums. They tint the water, gently lower pH and grow a grazing layer of biofilm. They suit shrimp keepers and aquascapers in South Africa who want to recreate the soft, tea-coloured water of wild freshwater shrimp habitats.

These cones do more than decorate a tank. They work in a similar way to the well-known Alder Cones, slowly conditioning the water while giving shrimp a natural surface to graze on. Both beginner and experienced aquarists use them to support the health and vitality of shrimp and other tank inhabitants.

Key Benefits

• Rich source of tannins: The cones release tannins, organic compounds that give the water a tea-coloured tint like natural freshwater habitats.
• Mild antibacterial and fungicidal properties: Tannins are known for mild antibacterial and fungicidal effects. Keepers value this for helping create a safer environment for shrimp and reducing the risk of disease.
• Support during moulting: The cones help shrimp through the moulting process, which is a vulnerable stage in their growth.
• Abundant humic acids: The cones are rich in humic acids, which contribute to the overall wellbeing of the aquatic environment.
• Natural pH regulation: The cones help gently lower pH. This makes them a natural option for keepers who want the slightly acidic conditions many freshwater shrimp species prefer.
• Biofilm for grazing: Over time a biofilm builds up on the cones. This organic layer contains microorganisms such as bacteria and algae, and shrimp graze on it as a natural food source.
• Natural aesthetic: The cones add a natural, botanical look to aquascapes and shrimp tanks.

How to Use

• 1. Prepare: Pour boiling water over the cones before they go into the aquarium. This neutralises contaminants and helps the cones become waterlogged so they sink.
• 2. Rinse: After soaking, rinse the cones to remove any remaining debris.
• 3. Add to the tank: Start with a few cones and monitor your water conditions. Then add more gradually until you reach the recommended rate.

Dosage

• The recommended rate is 1–2 cones per 5 litres of aquarium water.
• Begin at the lower end, check how your water responds, and build up slowly. This keeps pH and colour changes gentle.

Suitable For

• Freshwater shrimp tanks, especially for species that prefer slightly acidic water.
• Aquascapes designed to mimic natural freshwater shrimp habitats.
• Tanks housing shrimp alongside other aquatic inhabitants.
• Novice and seasoned aquarists looking for a natural water conditioner.

Compatibility

• For use in freshwater aquariums.
• Tannins will tint the water a tea colour. This is normal and part of the natural, blackwater-style look.
• The cones gently lower pH, so they suit tanks where slightly acidic water is the goal. Monitor pH if your livestock needs neutral or alkaline conditions.
• They can be used in place of, or alongside, Alder Cones for a similar effect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Casuarina Cones change the colour of my aquarium water?
Yes. They release tannins that give the water a tea-coloured tint, similar to natural freshwater streams. Adding the cones gradually keeps the colour change gentle.

How many cones should I use in a 30-litre shrimp tank?
The recommended rate is 1–2 cones per 5 litres, which works out to 6–12 cones for 30 litres. Start with a few, check your water parameters, then add more over time.

Do I really need to boil the cones first?
Yes. Pouring boiling water over them neutralises contaminants and helps them become waterlogged so they sink. Rinse them afterwards to remove any leftover debris.

Will they lower the pH of my tap water?
They gently lower pH thanks to their tannins and humic acids. This helps if you want slightly acidic water for freshwater shrimp. Test regularly while you build up to the full rate, as the effect depends on your local water.

Do shrimp eat the cones?
Shrimp graze on the biofilm that forms on the cones over time. This layer of bacteria and algae acts as a natural food source in the tank.

How do Casuarina Cones compare to Alder Cones?
They offer similar benefits, including tannin release, a tea-coloured tint, gentle pH lowering and a surface for biofilm. Shrimp keepers often use them for the same purpose.

When can I expect delivery?

• Gauteng (Jhb/Pta) - 1-3 working days
• Nationwide (Cpt/Dbn+) - 2-5 working days
• Outlying Areas - 3-7 working days

All orders are sent via Economy Road, typically through Fastway or Internet Express Couriers*. Estimated timeframes are not guaranteed. Once the order is collected by the courier, we have no control over third-party logistics and cannot make any time promises.

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