Aquatics and Reptile company JBL have launched a new substrate for planted aquariums.
Called Manado, JBL say that it is a substrate which, due to its porous surface, improves the water quality for bacteria and noticeably enhances plant growth.
"In addition," say JBL,"Manado works as a chargeable battery because excess nutrients are stored in the substrate."
"Experiments have proven that a reduction of nutrients in water significantly reduces algae growth without disadvantage to the plants, as they can absorb the nutrients through their roots without difficulty."
"The laterite colour of JBL Manado means that fish are less nervous and show more beautiful colours, while the optical contrast between pretty green as well as red plants is very decorative."
"The sensitive barbels of ground-dwelling fish remain unharmed by the round shape of the granules."
"An important distinction from other products currently on the market," They continue, is that: "JBL Manado does not dangerously reduce the hardness of water and therefore creates a stable pH-value."