JBL Manado 10L

JBL Manado – Natural Clay Substrate for Planted Aquariums

JBL Manado is a porous, baked clay substrate designed to promote strong root development and long-term stability in freshwater planted tanks. Its natural look enhances aquascapes while supporting healthy plant growth and clear water.

Key benefits

• Excellent root zone: Porous granules improve oxygenation around roots and encourage vigorous growth.
• Nutrient buffering (CEC): Absorbs nutrients from the water column and fertilisers, making them available to plant roots over time.
• Neutral & safe: Does not alter pH or hardness; aquarium-safe for fish, shrimp, and snails.
• Natural aesthetics: Rounded, earth-tone grains with no sharp edges, gentle for bottom dwellers.
• Flexible setup: Works alone or above a nutrient base layer (e.g., soil/plant substrate) and with liquid or root fertilisers.

How to use

1. Rinse briefly to remove loose dust (until the water runs clearer).
2. Add to the aquarium at a depth of 5 – 8 cm; create a gentle back-to-front slope for depth.
3. Plant as desired; fill the tank slowly over a plate or plastic sheet to avoid disturbance.
4. Run filtration and perform a large initial water change if the water appears cloudy; this clears quickly with normal filtration.

Position in the substrate stack

• Optional base layer: Place a nutrient substrate underneath for heavy root feeders.
• Main layer: Use JBL Manado as the visible top layer for planting and aquascaping.

Maintenance tips

• Vacuum lightly above the surface to avoid compacting the granules.
• Use root tabs for nutrient-hungry plants (e.g., Echinodorus, Cryptocoryne).
• Combine with regular liquid fertilisation and CO₂ (if applicable) for best results.

FAQs

Does JBL Manado contain nutrients?
It primarily acts as a nutrient buffer (high CEC). Pair with fertilisers or a nutrient base for optimal growth.

Will it change water chemistry?
No, it’s inert and does not raise pH or hardness.

Is it suitable for shrimp?
Yes. The rounded grains are shrimp-safe and provide a natural foraging surface.

Choose JBL Manado for a clean, natural foundation that supports strong roots, stable parameters, and a beautiful aquascape.