Hobby Alder Cones

What are Hobby Alder Cones?

Hobby Alder Cones are sustainably harvested from Black Alders, Alnus glutinosa. This box contains approximately 50 individual alder cones. They are completely fish safe and actually have a number of benefits when place inside an aquarium.

What are the benefits of alder cones?

Alder Cones, like other botanicals, have a number of different benefits when placed inside an aquarium, including:

• Supply important humins that plants use to grow
• Naturally tan water, creating a ‘blackwater effect’ that simulates wild-like conditions
• Gently decrease PH, making water more suitable for certain species
• Tanning agents released have anti-microbial properties, promoting better health and vitality
• Serve as a breeding ground for microfauna readily eaten by small predatory fish, shrimps, and crabs

How do I use alder cones in an aquarium?

Prior to placing alder cones in your aquarium, it’s a good idea to boil them in fresh water. This will remove any lingering bacteria and waterlog them, increasing the chances that they’ll sink when you finally add them to your aquarium.

After boiling your alder cones, strain them and then add them to your aquarium – one cone is sufficient for approximately 10-20 litres of water. If pre-boiled, or left for a day or two, the alder cones will sink and start to release humins and tanning agents.

As natural products, these alder cones won’t last forever and after two to three weeks they will start to break down and lose their effectiveness. It’s recommended that you replace your alder cones once they start to break down, should you wish to have a constant supply of humins and tanning agents in your aquarium.