Cholla Wood is a natural aquarium botanical prized by shrimp and nano fish keepers for its porous, hollow structure. As it ages underwater it develops a steady layer of biofilm — a constant grazing surface for Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp, and a safe foraging zone for shrimplets and fry.
It also provides natural shelter and hiding spots that reduce stress for shrimp and small fish. Over time it contributes mild tannins, making it a natural fit for blackwater and low-tech planted setups. Each piece is 100% natural, aquarium safe, and untreated — and unique in size and shape.
Freshwater shrimp, snails, bettas, nano fish, and invertebrates when prepared as directed
Prep
Rinse first; soak or boil to sink faster
Why It Works
Product Highlights
01
Builds Biofilm for Shrimp and Fry
Porous cholla wood develops biofilm within days — a constant grazing surface for Neocaridina, Caridina, shrimplets, and nano fry throughout the day.
02
Natural Shelter and Hiding Spots
The hollow, textured structure gives shrimp, fry, and small fish extra cover and reduces stress. Essential for shrimplet survival in active colonies.
03
Natural Tannins — Blackwater Ready
Adds a natural botanical look and releases mild tannins over time. A natural fit for blackwater setups and low-tech planted tanks.
How to Use
Prep & Placement
Rinse before adding to your aquarium. Cholla wood can go in directly, but boiling for 10–15 minutes or soaking for 24–48 hours helps it sink faster and releases the initial tannin burst before it enters the tank.
Once submerged it will begin developing biofilm within a few days. For shrimp tanks and nano fish setups, placing multiple pieces across the substrate maximizes grazing area and gives shrimplets more places to hide and forage. Replace when it has fully decomposed, usually after several 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 and untreated. No coatings, no additives, no pesticides. Aquarium-safe when rinsed as directed. Commonly used in shrimp, snail, and nano fish aquariums.
Will it discolor the water?+
It may gently tint the water amber as mild tannins release, particularly early on. Boiling before use reduces this. This is a normal blackwater effect and is commonly part of natural shrimp- and betta-tank setups.
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.
Do I need to prepare it before adding it to my tank?+
Yes. Rinse thoroughly first. Boiling for 10–15 minutes or soaking for 24–48 hours will help it sink faster and release the initial tannin burst before it goes in your aquarium.
How long does it last in the tank?+
Cholla wood breaks down slowly over several months. As it does, it develops biofilm that shrimp graze on constantly. Replace when it has fully decomposed.
What is the free shipping threshold?+
Free shipping on plants and dry goods at $75+.
How many pieces come in a pack?+
Three pieces per pack. Sizes vary slightly as cholla wood is a natural material, but each pack contains three individual tubes suitable for shrimp tanks and nano setups.
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.