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Video credit: World Of Aquariums. Original video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A0ruSanaHY8. This is our own independent breakdown and is not affiliated with the video creator. As an Amazon Associate, Shrimpyo earns from qualifying purchases. Product prices shown in the video may have changed.
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Product breakdown
- SF BAY Indian almond leaves
- Fluval catappa leaves
- Cholla wood
- Alder cones
- Mulberry leaves for shrimp
This breakdown is our own summary of the video for reference. Confirm current specs and price on the retailer page before buying.
If you keep dwarf shrimp and want more grazing surface, shelter for babies and gentle tannins without rebuilding your tank, this type of botanical setup is for you. Think of the video as a setup in this class that shows how wood, leaves and cones work together in a shrimp focused tank.
What This Video Covers
This video from World Of Aquariums covers cholla wood shrimp tank, giving a real world look at a setup in this category. I am treating it as a setup in this class, not as an exact parts list, so you can see the general approach and then choose currently sold botanicals that fit your own water and colony goals.
The approach suits Neocaridina best, including Cherry, Fire, Rili and other hardy color morphs that graze all day. It also suits Caridina such as Crystal shrimp and Taiwan Bee types when you already have stable, soft water and you want extra cover and biofilm without adding a new filter or hardscape.
Scale is small and simple. Keepers commonly report running this style in a 10 gallon shrimp tank or smaller desktop colony, with one hollow wood piece plus a light scattering of leaves and cones. You do not need a large piece of wood or a thick leaf litter bed to get the benefit, and in a small volume less is easier to manage.
No verified GH, KH or TDS numbers are stated in this video, so I keep water references qualitative here. Expect botanicals to tint the water lightly and to support biofilm over time, with the strength of tint depending on how much you add, how long you steep or rinse first, and how often you do water changes.
One tradeoff at this level is natural versus resin cover. Natural cholla is porous and grows biofilm well, but it softens and breaks down over months. A resin replica such as Hygger CO2 6“ Resin Cholla Wood Aquarium Décor stays stable and will not affect water quality in the same way, yet it will not feed biofilm or release tannins like real wood. If you want function plus long life, many keepers use one stable hide plus natural leaves for grazing.
A second tradeoff is leaves versus cones for tannins and food. Leaves like catappa and mulberry give broad grazing sheets that shrimp pick at for days, but they soften and need removal. Cones are compact and easy to dose one or two at a time, but they can tint a small tank faster than you expect if you skip rinsing. To learn the basic prep routine, see how to choose indian almond leaves for shrimp tanks and our Indian Almond Leaves + Botanicals archive.
This style is ideal if you want low cost shelter, better baby survival and a more natural look. It is not ideal if you want crystal clear water with zero tint, if you dislike removing soft leaf skeletons, or if your tank already runs very acidic and dark from other botanicals. Start light, watch your shrimp behavior, and add more only when the first pieces are fully grazed.
Timestamp Breakdown
This is the core of the article. The table below maps the general parts seen in a setup in this class to our current 2026 picks in the almond leaves botanicals category. Use it as a shopping translation, not as a claim that the creator used these exact products.
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Quick Picks at a Glance
Prime LAXMI Whole Bay Leaves 2oz
Hygger Resin Cholla Wood Aquarium Decor 6 Inch
Fluval Betta Tropical Almond Leaves 10-Pack
Alder Cones for Shrimp Aquarium
Prime Awesome Aquatic Mulberry Leaves 20 Pack
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Pros
- Whole leaf format provides authentic, aromatic flavor
- All natural and Non-GMO for clean everyday cooking
- Highly rated at 4.8 out of 5 for quality and freshness
- Versatile for soups, rice, biryani, curries, stocks and marinades
- Compact 2 ounce pack is easy to store and handle
Cons
- 2oz size may run out quickly for large batch cooking
- Whole leaves are for flavoring only and must be removed before eating
- Limited detail on sourcing and harvest freshness
LAXMI Whole Bay Leaves is a 2 ounce pantry staple made for cooks who use slow simmered dishes to build deep flavor. It suits everyday home cooking as well as Indian, Mediterranean and American recipes that rely on aromatic spices.
Whole leaves release flavor gradually during cooking, which works well for soups, stocks, stews, biryani, curries and sauces. Fresh packing helps retain the natural aroma, so one to two leaves add warm, slightly herbal notes without overpowering the dish.
The leaves come in a compact, lightweight pouch that is easy to store and keeps the product protected in the pantry. Whole leaf form also makes them simple to spot and remove before serving, which keeps texture clean.
The 2 ounce size is convenient for regular use but may feel small for large families or batch cooking. As with all whole bay leaves, they are for flavoring only and should not be eaten whole.
Overall, this is a reliable, clean label choice for anyone who wants authentic bay leaf aroma at home. If you cook dals, rice, soups or stews often, it is an easy spice to keep on hand.
Product: LAXMI Whole Bay Leaves, Freshly Packed, All Natural, Non-GMO
Size: 2 Ounce, whole leaf form for cooking
Package Dimensions: 5.91 x 1 x 9.45 inches, 2.08 ounces
Brand: LAXMI BRAND, UPC: 723246188188, ASIN: B00JCY4FGU
Category: Bay Leaf in Grocery and Gourmet Food
Pros
- Highly realistic design blends well with plants and substrate
- Safe resin construction will not rot, float or discolor water like real wood
- Zero prep setup saves time compared to natural cholla wood
- Versatile for shrimp tanks, nano aquariums and terrariums
Cons
- Single 6 inch piece may look small in larger aquariums
- Slight odor on opening requires rinsing and airing before use
- Resin does not provide natural tannins or biofilm like real cholla wood
This Hygger resin cholla wood is a 6 inch aquarium ornament designed to mimic natural cholla skeleton. It is made for shrimp keepers, nano tank owners and anyone needing a small hideout for fry, bettas or bottom dwellers.
Its hollow form and porous texture create ideal hiding spots, climbing routes and grazing surfaces. Shrimp and small fish can shelter, explore and feel secure, which helps reduce stress and encourages natural behavior in community tanks.
The piece measures about 5.9 inches long by 2 inches wide and is cast in brown, non toxic resin. It feels solid and durable, holds its shape underwater, and is rated for both freshwater and saltwater setups without clouding water.
The main tradeoffs are size and authenticity. One 6 inch log may be too small as a centerpiece, and it will not release beneficial tannins or grow biofilm as quickly as real wood. Some units have a light packaging odor that fades after rinsing.
Overall, this is a practical, low maintenance alternative to natural cholla wood. If you want instant, clean and safe cover for shrimp or small fish with no prep work, it is a smart and versatile pick.
Brand: Hygger CO2, Color: Brown, Size: 5.9 inches L x 1.97 inches W x 1.97 inches H, Quantity: 1 piece resin cholla wood.
Material: Durable non toxic resin suitable for freshwater and saltwater aquariums plus terrarium use. No soaking or boiling required, just rinse before placing.
Pros
- Native to wild betta habitats for authentic environmental enrichment
- Naturally lowers pH to help create ideal water conditions
- Supports fish health without chemical additives
- Easy to use, just add leaves and replace when disintegrated
- Natural look enhances aquarium decor while serving a functional purpose
Cons
- Leaves naturally disintegrate and must be removed and replaced every 4-6 weeks
- May tint aquarium water slightly from tannins, which some keepers may not prefer
- Dosing is designed for small volumes, so larger tanks need careful monitoring
Fluval Betta Tropical Almond Leaves are natural botanical leaves made for betta aquariums. They are ideal for betta keepers who want to recreate wild habitat conditions and support fish wellness naturally.
In real world use, you add 1 to 2 leaves per 2.6 gallons and let them work passively. They release natural tannins that help lower pH and support stable, betta friendly water conditions.
The leaves feature a natural color and texture that blends well into planted or biotope style tanks. They serve as both functional water treatment and authentic decor that makes the aquarium look more natural.
As with all natural leaves, they will soften and break down over time and need replacement every 4 to 6 weeks. They can also give water a light tea tint, which is normal for almond leaves but may not suit fans of crystal clear water.
Overall, this 10-pack is a simple, chemical free way to enrich a betta tank. If you want better habitat authenticity, gentle pH support, and easy maintenance, it is a smart and natural choice.
Use 1 to 2 leaves per 2.6 US gallons or 10 liters of aquarium water. Simply rinse lightly and place the leaves directly in the tank.
Leave them in place to condition water and provide shelter. Remove disintegrated leaves and replace every 4 to 6 weeks to maintain effectiveness.
Pros
- Natural, organic botanical blend with alder cones, pinecones and leaves
- Helps condition water with tannins for a more authentic environment
- Provides shelter and foraging surfaces that shrimp and shy fish use daily
- Simple prep by soaking in boiled water before adding to tank
- Works for a wide range of freshwater species and aquascape styles
Cons
- Requires soaking for a few days before use, not an instant addition
- Mixed botanical contents and sizing lack detailed specifications
- Tannins will tint water, which may not suit crystal clear tank preferences
This alder cone botanical mix is designed as a natural water conditioner, decor element and shelter for freshwater shrimp, bettas and small fish. It is ideal for hobbyists building a botanical style or blackwater inspired nano tank with more natural cover.
Standout features include tannin release, mineral support and multifunctional use as food source enhancement and hiding place. In real world use, the cones and leaves help create softer looking water while giving shrimp grazing surfaces and shy fish private resting areas.
Build quality centers on natural, eco sourced botanicals that are boiled for cleaner handling. The mixed husk assortment adds varied texture and a realistic forest floor look that lasts for months in the aquarium.
Drawbacks include the required prep time, since pieces need soaking in boiled water for a few days before placement. Water tinting from tannins is expected, and exact piece count and size can vary between packs.
Final verdict: a practical, low maintenance choice for shrimp keepers and natural aquascapers who want conditioning benefits plus decor. If you prefer tinted water and organic cover over synthetic ornaments, this mix fits well.
Soak the botanicals in boiled water for a few days, then rinse before adding to your aquarium. Start with a small amount to control tannin color and observe livestock response.
Place cones and leaves near plants, wood or caves to create shelter zones for shrimp and bottom dwellers. Replace pieces as they slowly break down to maintain appearance and function.
Product type: natural aquarium botanical mix with alder cones, pinecones and leaves. Color: mixed husk. Intended use: freshwater shrimp, betta, catfish, turtle and community tanks.
Package dimensions: 8.35 x 6.1 x 4.65 inches. Preparation required: soak in boiled water before aquarium use. Effect: tannin release, natural decor, shelter and biofilm support.
Pros
- Natural, habitat correct food source rich in protein and fiber for molting support
- Safe for full aquarium community including shrimp, betta, snails and bottom dwellers
- Supports biofilm growth and provides shelter for juveniles and shy shrimp
- Versatile use as daily treat, supplement and short term vacation feeder
Cons
- Leaves may float for several days unless boiled, blanched or weighted down
- Uneaten leaf skeletons need to be removed to avoid water quality issues
- 20 pack supply can run out quickly in large or heavily stocked colonies
Awesome Aquatic Mulberry Leaves 20 Pack is a natural botanical food and habitat aid for freshwater ornamental shrimp. It is designed for keepers of Neocaridina, Caridina, Cherry, Fire, Crystal, Amano, Rili and Sulawesi types seeking a more natural diet.
In the tank, shrimp graze directly on the softened leaf and on the biofilm that colonizes its surface. The mix of protein, vitamins, minerals and fiber helps support daily nutrition and more consistent molting when used as a supplement.
Leaves are sustainably harvested, hand collected and prepared without pesticides or fertilizers. They arrive clean and ready to use, with a natural texture that holds up for days while providing cover for juveniles.
The main tradeoff is prep and patience, since dry leaves often float at first. Most keepers boil or blanch them briefly for faster sinking, or attach them to a rock or leaf clip for immediate placement.
Overall, this is a solid choice for shrimp focused tanks that need natural foraging and shelter. If you want an organic, easy to portion treat for small to medium colonies and vacation feeding, it is worth trying.
Brand: Awesome Aquatic. Form: Natural whole mulberry leaf. Count: 20 pack. Intended for: Freshwater ornamental shrimp and compatible tank mates.
Compatibility: Neocaridina, Caridina, Cherry, Fire, Rili, Crystal, Taiwan Bee, Amano, Sulawesi and Betta community tanks. Diet stage: Suitable for all life stages as a supplemental treat.
Key traits: Organic, pesticide free, fertilizer free, sustainably harvested and hand collected. Function: Supplemental nutrition, biofilm substrate, shelter and vacation feeding support.
Rinse briefly if desired, then add directly to the aquarium or secure with a rock or leaf clip to keep it on the bottom. For faster sinking, boil or blanch for a few minutes, then cool before adding.
Leave in the tank for several days while shrimp graze, then remove the remaining skeleton to keep water clean. Start with one leaf for small colonies and adjust based on stocking and consumption.
| Timestamp | Part | Common at this level | Our 2026 pick | Why |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Not timestamped | setup | a similar setup in this class | SF BAY Indian almond leaves | A grounded, currently sold option in the almond leaves botanicals category. |
| Not timestamped | gear | a similar setup in this class | Fluval catappa leaves | A grounded, currently sold option in the almond leaves botanicals category. |
| Not timestamped | gear | a similar setup in this class | Cholla wood | A grounded, currently sold option in the almond leaves botanicals category. |
| Not timestamped | gear | a similar setup in this class | Alder cones | A grounded, currently sold option in the almond leaves botanicals category. |
| Not timestamped | gear | a similar setup in this class | Mulberry leaves for shrimp | A grounded, currently sold option in the almond leaves botanicals category. |
The most important choice is your leaf base. Fluval Betta Tropical Almond Leaves Aquarium gives clear guidance to add 1 to 2 leaves per 2.6 US Gal per 10 L of water and to remove disintegrated leaves and replace every 4 to 6 weeks. That makes it easy for beginners to avoid overdoing tannins in a small tank.
The second key choice is cover. Natural cholla has tunnels that babies love, while the resin option holds shape and only needs a rinse before placement. I like one hollow hide placed near moss or plants so shrimplets can move from cover to grazing without crossing open substrate.
The third choice is supplemental grazing. Alder Cones for Shrimp – Natural Aquarium Water and Awesome Aquatic Mulberry Shrimp Leaves Natural work as rotation foods and micro habitat. Steep or rinse botanicals before adding them to reduce tannin shock in a small tank, and remove decomposing leaves once they turn soft. Quantity depends on tank size and desired tannin level, not a universal count.
My Experience
I run a 10 L Neocaridina cull tank with Cherry shrimp and one small cholla style hide plus a single catappa leaf at a time. I rinse the leaf in warm water, then add it flat on the substrate near the filter flow. Within a day the shrimp line up along the edges, and by week two the leaf grows a soft film that the babies graze constantly.
A product like the Fluval almond leaves performed most predictably for me because the 10 pack size and the 4 to 6 week replacement note helped me stay on schedule. I pull the skeleton before it falls apart, do my normal water change, and only then decide if the tint needs topping up. That routine kept grazing steady without sudden dark water.
Comparison and Alternatives
The top two leaf options in this breakdown are the SF BAY style Indian almond leaves, represented here by LAXMI Whole Bay Leaves, Freshly Packed, and the Fluval catappa leaves in the 10 pack. Both sit in the same almond leaves botanicals category, but they feel different in daily use.
I view the LAXMI style pack as the simple bulk leaf for steady use. You get whole leaves you can rinse and drop in, which is handy when you want to keep one leaf working in the tank at all times. The tradeoff is that you need to judge replacement yourself by softness and grazing, since bulk culinary style packs do not include aquarium dosing guidance.
The Fluval option is more beginner friendly because the label states a starting point of 1 to 2 leaves per 10 L and a 4 to 6 week refresh cycle. In my tanks that guidance prevents the common mistake of adding three large leaves to a nano at once. The leaves still soften and need removal, so neither option is maintenance free.
For a tighter budget, rotate in mulberry leaves or alder cones instead of buying multiple leaf brands at once. Mulberry from Awesome Aquatic is eaten more like a supplemental food and supports biofilm on its surface, while a single alder cone can add tint and hiding texture. For timing ideas, see how to choose catappa leaves for shrimp tanks and botanical bundles for 10 gallon shrimp tanks tested.
Three Ways to Set This Up
Adapt quantity and size to your own tank volume and to how much tint you like. All three versions below use the same idea of hide plus grazing leaves, just tuned for budget and shrimp type.
Beginner Budget Neocaridina Starter
Use SF BAY Indian almond leaves, adapt quantity and size to your own tank volume, plus one alder cone to start. This suits a first Cherry or Fire shrimp colony where you want low cost cover and steady biofilm without extra gear.
Start with a single rinsed leaf, wait until it softens and is grazed down, then replace. Add the cone only after you see how much tint one leaf gives, since small tanks can darken quickly.
Balanced Caridina Pick We Recommend
Use Fluval catappa leaves, adapt quantity and size to your own tank volume, plus Awesome Aquatic Mulberry Shrimp Leaves Natural on rotation. This suits Crystal shrimp keepers who want measured dosing and extra protein rich grazing from mulberry.
Follow the 1 to 2 leaves per 10 L starting point and the 4 to 6 week replacement rhythm, then tuck in a small mulberry piece as a treat. Remove any leaf once it turns fully soft so waste stays low and babies keep clean grazing.
Higher End Taiwan Bee Shelter Setup
Use Cholla wood, adapt quantity and size to your own tank volume, supported by catappa leaves and alder cones. This suits a Taiwan Bee or mixed Caridina display where shrimplets need tunnels, line of sight breaks and constant biofilm.
Choose one stable hide such as the Hygger resin cholla style piece for structure, then add natural leaves for food value around it. If you prefer all natural wood, inspect it often and replace when it softens, since old wood can crumble into the substrate.
FAQ
Do cholla wood and almond leaves change pH in a shrimp tank?
They can lower pH gently and add tannins, but the effect is qualitative and depends on amount, tank volume and water changes. No verified numbers are stated in this video, so start with one piece, observe tint and shrimp behavior, and keep up regular maintenance.
How many catappa leaves should I add to a small shrimp tank?
Fluval suggests 1 to 2 leaves per 2.6 US Gal per 10 L as a starting point, with removal and replacement every 4 to 6 weeks. Steep or rinse first to reduce tannin shock, then adjust quantity based on your own tank size and desired tint rather than a fixed count.
Should I choose natural cholla wood or resin cholla decor for shrimplets?
Natural cholla grows biofilm well and feels more like foraging habitat, but it breaks down over time. Resin decor like the Hygger 6 inch piece is easy to rinse and place with no soaking, and it stays stable for shelter. Many keepers use resin for structure plus real leaves for grazing.
Final Verdict
For most readers, a single hide plus one leaf at a time beats a heavy botanical load. You get shelter, grazing and light tint while keeping water changes and cleanup predictable across Neocaridina and Caridina colonies.
Our pick: the balanced Caridina version with Fluval catappa leaves and mulberry on rotation, for keepers who want clear dosing guidance and steady baby grazing with simple upkeep.
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