--- product_id: 12883510 title: "Fluval 12694 Plant and Shrimp Stratum for Freshwater Fish Tanks, 8.8 lbs. – Aquarium Substrate for Strong Plant Growth, Supports Neutral to Slightly Acidic pH" brand: "fluval" price: "$132.01" currency: USD in_stock: true reviews_count: 13 category: "Fluval" url: https://www.desertcart.us/products/12883510-fluval-12694-plant-and-shrimp-stratum-for-freshwater-fish-tanks store_origin: US region: United States of America --- # 8.8 lbs nutrient-rich granules Safe shrimp refuge Maintains neutral to slightly acidic pH Fluval 12694 Plant and Shrimp Stratum for Freshwater Fish Tanks, 8.8 lbs. – Aquarium Substrate for Strong Plant Growth, Supports Neutral to Slightly Acidic pH **Brand:** fluval **Price:** $132.01 **Availability:** ✅ In Stock ## Summary > 🌿 Elevate your planted tank game — where thriving plants meet happy shrimp! ## Quick Answers - **What is this?** Fluval 12694 Plant and Shrimp Stratum for Freshwater Fish Tanks, 8.8 lbs. – Aquarium Substrate for Strong Plant Growth, Supports Neutral to Slightly Acidic pH by fluval - **How much does it cost?** $132.01 with free shipping - **Is it available?** Yes, in stock and ready to ship - **Where can I buy it?** [www.desertcart.us](https://www.desertcart.us/products/12883510-fluval-12694-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 - • **Optimal pH Balance:** Engineered to sustain a neutral to slightly acidic environment, perfect for tropical fish and plants. - • **Shrimp’s Safe Haven:** Provides newborn shrimp a secure shelter, enhancing survival rates in your aquatic community. - • **No More Cloudy Water FOMO:** Specially formulated to prevent discoloration even with natural driftwood décor, keeping your tank Insta-ready. - • **Boost Your Aquascape Growth:** Porous substrate enables rapid root penetration and nutrient absorption for lush, oversized plants. - • **Bioactive Bacterial Colony Starter:** Porous structure accelerates beneficial nitrifying bacteria colonization, ensuring crystal-clear water quality. ## Overview Fluval 12694 Plant and Shrimp Stratum is an 8.8 lb premium aquarium substrate designed to promote vigorous aquatic plant growth and provide a safe refuge for newborn shrimp. Its porous granules foster rapid colonization of beneficial nitrifying bacteria, maintaining optimal water quality and a neutral to slightly acidic pH ideal for freshwater ecosystems. This substrate prevents water discoloration, even with natural driftwood, making it a must-have for professional-grade planted aquariums. ## 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: Highly recommended - Always use this substrate and never go wrong with it. Love it. First day is cloudy and the second day is clear. Trust the process. It works wonders with natural plants and fish. ## 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 | B00JMABYUO | | Allergen Information | Nut Free | | Best Sellers Rank | #1,589 in Pet Supplies ( See Top 100 in Pet Supplies ) #2 in Aquarium Gravel | | Brand | Fluval | | Brand Name | Fluval | | Customer Reviews | 4.7 out of 5 stars 17,543 Reviews | | Global Trade Identification Number | 00015561126946 | | Included Components | All Items listed in Description | | Item Form | Granules | | Item Type Name | HAGEN PLANT&SHRIMP STRATUM 4KG | | Item Weight | 4 Kilograms | | Manufacturer | Rolf C. Hagen (USA) Corp. | | Manufacturer Part Number | 12694 | | Model Number | 12694 | | Pet Type | Fish | | Target Species | Fish | | UPC | 015561126946 | | Unit Count | 140.8 Ounce | | Warranty Description | Manufacturer warranty. | ## Product Details - **Brand:** Fluval - **Item Form:** Granules - **Item Weight:** 4 Kilograms - **Manufacturer:** Rolf C. Hagen (USA) Corp. - **Unit Count:** 140.8 Ounce ## Images ![Fluval 12694 Plant and Shrimp Stratum for Freshwater Fish Tanks, 8.8 lbs. – Aquarium Substrate for Strong Plant Growth, Supports Neutral to Slightly Acidic pH - Image 1](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61xuz5C1O9L.jpg) ![Fluval 12694 Plant and Shrimp Stratum for Freshwater Fish Tanks, 8.8 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 12694 Plant and Shrimp Stratum for Freshwater Fish Tanks, 8.8 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 12694 Plant and Shrimp Stratum for Freshwater Fish Tanks, 8.8 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 12694 Plant and Shrimp Stratum for Freshwater Fish Tanks, 8.8 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** options. ## Questions & Answers **Q: I never received my package** A: Fluval sent me the wrong size bag one time but when you contact them! They are excellent in correcting it . **Q: Will this work in small pots in my tank. I have a gravel tank and a sand tank. Not sure if im ready to go all the way.** A: Yes it's the size of regular gravel just softer like compressed dirt balls. I put them in small glass bowls and put plants in it. **Q: How many of the 8.8lbs do I need to get 1.5 inches of substrate in a tank that has a 20x12 foot print?** A: 20x12 foot print is the footprint of a 10 gallon tank. I used a 8.8lb to get 2" easily. You should be fine getting 1 x 8.8lb bag. **Q: Hi, is this substrate safe for all types of shrimp? Thank you** A: Fluval Plant and Shrimp is pH neutral, therefore with correct water pH is safe for all types of shrimp. It's also vey good for aquatic plants that are needed to create a proper environment for shrimp. ## 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. ### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Highly recommended *by S***. on April 29, 2026* Always use this substrate and never go wrong with it. Love it. First day is cloudy and the second day is clear. Trust the process. It works wonders with natural plants and fish. ### ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Perfect Buffer and Easy to Plant In *by B***G on February 28, 2026* Loved adding this to my tank. Once everything balanced out, it’s been a perfect buffer for my water parameters. It also looks super clean against a dark backdrop. Do not rinse it. Just pour water gently over it when filling, otherwise your tank will turn into a murky lagoon. Once settled, it’s great. It’s also very easy to insert plants into. The texture holds roots well without being too compact. My plants are thriving so far, and the 4.4 lb bag was the perfect amount for my 5-gallon. I used the entire bag. Great substrate overall. ## Frequently Bought Together - Fluval 12694 Plant and Shrimp Stratum for Freshwater Fish Tanks, 8.8 lbs. – Aquarium Substrate for Strong Plant Growth, Supports Neutral to Slightly Acidic pH - Aqua Natural Sugar White Sand 10lb Substrate for aquascaping, Aquariums, vivariums and terrariums - majoywoo Natural Coral Driftwood for Aquarium Decor Fish Tank Decorations, Assorted Driftwood Branch 6-10" 3 Pcs, Reptile Decor… --- ## Why Shop on Desertcart? - 🛒 **Trusted by 1.3+ Million Shoppers** — Serving international shoppers since 2016 - 🌍 **Shop Globally** — Access 737+ million products across 21 categories - 💰 **No Hidden Fees** — All customs, duties, and taxes included in the price - 🔄 **15-Day Free Returns** — Hassle-free returns (30 days for PRO members) - 🔒 **Secure Payments** — Trusted payment options with buyer protection - ⭐ **TrustPilot Rated 4.5/5** — Based on 8,000+ happy customer reviews **Shop now:** [https://www.desertcart.us/products/12883510-fluval-12694-plant-and-shrimp-stratum-for-freshwater-fish-tanks](https://www.desertcart.us/products/12883510-fluval-12694-plant-and-shrimp-stratum-for-freshwater-fish-tanks) --- *Product available on Desertcart United States of America* *Store origin: US* *Last updated: 2026-05-15*