South East Asia to mimic the natural Betta habitat. They are believed to aid the fish in a number of ways, such as helping fighting fish heal after a battle and inducing spawning in breeding tanks.
Ketapang or Sea Almond or Indian Almond or Terminalia catappa leaves are known to most, if not all Asian breeders of blackwater tropical fishes, to be one of the best water conditioners to promote healing and breeding. They are known to have antibacterial and anti fungal properties. Betas are known to be induced to spawn by just putting a few of the leaves into their tank. Fish suffering finrot or injuries (such as spawning injuries) will definitely benefit from having the leaves in their quarantine tank. But they can be used for the usual aquariums too.
When soaked in water these leaves will leach a strong brown dye that is full of organic acids like humic acids and tannic acids. These are useful for inhibiting many types of bacteria as well as to detoxify harmful heavy metals found in the aquarium.
It is well-known, for example, that show betas kept in a 1 gallon tank will require water changes every 2 or 3 days if mature untreated water is used. But when Indian Almond Leaves are used the water change routine can be stretched to a week. Also, tubifex worms kept in tap water or even matured water will experience necrosis and stink within a day or two, whereas if they are kept in water treated with Indian Almond Leaves (or extract), they will continue to thrive for up to a week without the water fouling up or becoming smelly.
All natural and organic
Rich in tannins
Antibacterial and anti-fungal properties
Stimulates fish and shrimp color
