UNS Controsoil Black Fine (10L) is a Japanese-made planted aquarium substrate crafted from a natural blend of soil and volcanic ash, designed to support plants and freshwater shrimp without causing severe initial ammonia spikes.

Key Specifications & Features:

• Granule Size: The Fine variant features 3 mm granules, making it ideal for shorter-rooted foreground and carpeting plants such as Monte Carlo, Glossostigma, and Dwarf Hairgrass.
• Water Chemistry Buffering: Naturally lowers total hardness (KH/GH) and buffers pH to a slightly acidic 6.8, creating stable conditions for tropical fish, aquatic plants, and sensitive shrimp like Caridina.
• Low Ammonia Release: Unlike high-nutrient soils that trigger heavy algae blooms, Controsoil releases minimal ammonia and focuses on absorbing impurities to speed up the nitrogen cycle.
• Coverage & Tank Sizing: One 10L bag is recommended for tanks around 75 litres (such as a standard 60 cm aquarium). You can calculate exact requirements using Length (cm) × Width (cm) × Desired Depth (cm) ÷ 1000.

Setup & Usage:

• DO NOT RINSE: Add the substrate directly to a dry, empty aquarium—rinsing breaks down the baked granules and causes cloudiness.
• Fill Slowly: Place a dish, plastic bag, or paper towel over the soil when adding water to disperse the flow and keep the granules undisturbed.
• Cycle Before Livestock: Perform regular water changes during the initial setup phase and verify that ammonia and nitrite read zero before adding fish or shrimp.