Sea almond leaf dried, lowers the pH value, prevents diseases

The leaves of the sea almond tree (Terminalia catappa) have proven their worth in aquaristics as a preventative against fish diseases. These have a disinfecting and fungicidal effect and are used against fungi and spores. Although the plant is less frequently represented in the breeding of primeval crayfish, the healing effect of sea almond leaves has been appreciated for many years in aquaristics as well as in domestic breeding. The leaves contain numerous ingredients that benefit the water quality.

These include:

• Flavonoids
• Tannins
• Humic acids
• triterpinoids.

The leaves of the sea almond tree (Terminalia catappa) have long been used in the aquarium hobby as a natural means of maintaining water quality. They are used in particular to prevent disease, as they have mild disinfectant and fungicidal properties. This enables them to inhibit the growth of fungi, spores and harmful bacteria, thereby promoting a more stable biological balance in the aquarium.

The bioactive substances contained in the leaves, including flavonoids such as quercetin, have an antioxidant effect and help to bind free radicals in the water. At the same time, they support the natural defence mechanisms of fish, crustaceans and microorganisms. The use of water almond leaves can also be beneficial for triops, as they naturally ‘condition’ the water and create a milder, less stressful environment.

A significant part of their effect is due to the tannins they contain. These are plant compounds that are also found in oak leaves or tree bark. These substances gradually dissolve in the water, where they exert their antibacterial and slightly pH-lowering effect. At the same time, they can support the mucous membranes of aquarium inhabitants and thus contribute to their general vitality.

Once placed in the water, the leaves begin to decompose slowly. Within about 24 hours, the water takes on a slightly yellowish to brownish tint – a completely natural effect often referred to as the ‘blackwater effect’. This discolouration is not a sign of poor quality, but rather an indication that the valuable nutrients have been released.

In addition, the leaves serve as a natural structure within the aquarium. They provide a surface for microorganisms to colonise, thereby creating an important food source for young triops, which feed on precisely such microorganisms in their first few days. At the same time, the leaves can serve as a hiding place, thus reducing stress within the population.

Sea almond leaves strengthen the immune system of the fish. Fish suffering from inflammations and fin rot recover faster and the spawn is less affected by fungi. The effect of the plant helps in the fight against the following diseases:

• Pitting disease
• Goggle-eye disease
• Spot disease in neon tetra.

Sea almond leaves also help with an infestation of gill worms.

Scope of delivery:

• 1 x sachet with dried sea almond leaf pieces

How do you feed triops?

After feeding the triops spirulina or chlorella algae powder for around four days, an important transitional phase in their development begins. At this stage, the fine powder alone is no longer sufficient to meet the animals’ increasing nutritional requirements. At the same time, standard solid food is still too coarse and cannot be optimally consumed by the young triops. Switching to food sticks or pellets too early would therefore be more likely to cause problems than to improve their nutrition.

To bridge this gap effectively whilst preventing cannibalism, it is recommended to feed decapsulated Artemia eggs for a period of around ten days. They represent the ideal interim solution: small enough for the young animals, yet significantly richer in nutrients than pure algae powder. Thanks to their high content of proteins, vitamins and essential fatty acids, they support steady growth and boost the vitality of the triops during this sensitive phase.

During this transitional period, the animals continue to develop, their mouthparts become stronger and they are increasingly able to consume larger food particles. Only after around 10 to 14 days is the right time reached to gradually switch to solid staple food.

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)