JBL ProScape Volcano Mineral Substrate - JBL
Best current price£9.59from www.pond-planet.co.uk
Best offers
Shopping.co.uk recommended and popular offers
www.pond-planet.co.uk£9.59Visit shop Jbl Light Proscape Volcano Mineral Substrate
Visit shopwww.pond-planet.co.uk£9.59Visit shop One Offer
1 offer from £9.59
View price history by clicking the chart icon.
Product Information
Full details
The JBL ProScape Volcano Mineral is an essential base layer for dedicated aquascapers seeking to build stable, biologically active underwater landscapes. It is ideal for hobbyists who build complex rock or wood structures, as its interlocking volcanic properties prevent heavy elements from shifting over time, though it should be layered under a top-dress soil for a finished aesthetic appearance.
All features
| Brand | JBL |
|---|
Extended Product Information
FAQs
Do I need to wash the substrate before using it?
While it is largely clean, a quick rinse with water can help remove fine particles and reduce initial cloudiness in the tank.
Can I use this for fish that burrow?
It is designed as a base layer under a top-layer soil. If you have burrowing fish, ensure a sufficient cap of finer substrate is placed on top to protect them from the sharp, irregular edges of the volcanic rock.
Does this substrate affect water pH?
It is made of volcanic rock, which is generally stable; however, it is designed for aquascaping where you typically manage water parameters through regular water changes and fertilization.
How much do I need for a 60cm aquarium?
Using the formula (60cm length x 30cm width x 4cm height) / 1000, you would need approximately 7.2 liters of substrate for that specific base layer height.
Is this safe for shrimp?
Yes, once the tank is fully cycled and the biological environment is stable, it is safe for invertebrates.
Troubleshooting
Hardscape feels unstable after placement
Ensure the substrate is sufficiently leveled and the rocks are slightly 'pressed' into the mineral layer to allow for mechanical interlocking.
Water appears cloudy after initial filling
This is common with new substrate; allow the filtration system to run and it should clear within 24-48 hours as dust settles.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Prevents heavy hardscape from shifting or slipping
- Promotes healthy root systems through aeration
- Supports a robust colony of beneficial bacteria
- Easy to calculate volume requirements
- Provides long-term mineral support for plants
Cons
- Not intended as a standalone top-layer substrate
- Requires careful planning of base layer depth
- May require rinsing before the initial setup
Setup, Compatibility & Care
To set up the substrate, create a base layer with the Volcano Mineral, ensuring the slope is contoured to your desired landscape design before adding your main hardscape elements. Once the hardscape is stable, cover the exposed areas with your choice of specialized plant soil. Because the material is volcanic, it is inert and compatible with most freshwater fish and plant species. For care, avoid aggressive gravel vacuuming directly into the base layer to protect the settled beneficial bacteria colonies.