Alder Cones are small, tannin-rich aquarium botanicals that pack a lot of impact for their size. A natural staple in shrimp keeping, they release tannins and humic substances as they soften — recreating the forest-floor water conditions where many shrimp and nano fish species evolved.
They help create a natural tannin-rich environment commonly used in shrimp and nano fish aquariums, especially when introducing new livestock or supporting a freshly cycled tank. Each cone is 100% natural, untreated, and varies slightly in size. They last weeks to months underwater depending on flow.
Freshwater shrimp, snails, bettas, nano fish, and invertebrates when prepared as directed
Prep
Rinse first; use directly or pre-soak briefly
Why It Works
Product Highlights
01
Concentrated Natural Tannins
Small but mighty. Alder cones release a steady stream of tannins and humic substances that recreate the soft, slightly acidic water shrimp and nano fish evolved in.
02
Used in Natural Blackwater-Style Care
Alder cones are commonly used by shrimp keepers as part of natural blackwater-style aquarium care, especially when adding new livestock or supporting a newly cycled tank.
03
Easy Dosing for Any Tank Size
At 25 cones per pack and 1 cone per 2–5 gallons, a single pack treats most nano shrimp and betta setups for months. Pair with cholla or catappa for fuller blackwater.
How to Use
Prep & Placement
Rinse cones before adding to your tank. They can go in directly — most will sink on their own quickly. For tanks where you prefer less initial tannin release, pre-soak in dechlorinated water for 6–12 hours first.
Use roughly 1 cone per 2–5 gallons depending on tank size and desired tannin level. They pair well with cholla wood, catappa leaves, and casuarina pods for a fuller blackwater-style effect. Replace as they fully break down — usually after a few weeks to a couple of months.
Quick Setup Checklist
Rinse under warm water to remove dust
Boil 10–15 minutes or soak 24–48 hours to release initial tannins
Sink to the bottom or wedge into hardscape
Replace every 4–8 weeks as it breaks down naturally
Safe to use multiple pieces for higher tannin output
Pairs Well With
Build a Better Shrimp Tank
Botanicals work best alongside mosses, plants, and shrimp food. Build a complete natural setup.
Yes — 100% natural, untreated, no chemicals or pesticides. Aquarium-safe when rinsed as directed. Commonly used in shrimp, snail, and nano fish aquariums. A natural staple for Neocaridina and Caridina keepers.
Do I need to prepare them?+
Just rinse first. Most cones will sink on their own quickly. For tanks where you prefer less initial tannin release, pre-soak for 6–12 hours in dechlorinated water before adding.
How long do they last?+
A few weeks to a couple of months per cone depending on flow and water chemistry. Replace as they fully break down.
What is the free shipping threshold?+
Free shipping on plants and dry goods at $75+.
Will they tint my water?+
Yes, slightly. Alder cones release tannins that may gently tint the water amber — gentler than Catappa leaves but noticeable in nano tanks. Pre-soaking before use reduces the initial intensity.
How many should I use?+
Roughly 1 cone per 2–5 gallons depending on tank size and desired tannin level. Most nano shrimp tanks use 2–4 cones at a time.
How is it shipped?+
Packed securely and shipped Monday through Thursday via standard ground shipping. Plants and dry goods ship free at $75+. Transit times vary by location.
Can I order this with livestock?+
Yes. Dry goods can ship together with livestock orders.
Why Order From Razz Aquatics
Packed With Care. Every Order.
Every product we stock is chosen and tested for aquarium use. We run over 100 dedicated aquariums on-site — we use these products ourselves. Family-owned, packed in-house, and backed without fine print.
