hygger Aquarium Soil for Plants and Shrimp, 13.2 Pounds

The hygger HC028 Aquarium Soil is a sintered aqua soil for planted aquariums and shrimp tanks, sold in a 13.2 Pounds bag. hygger says it maintains a stable pH of 6.5-7.5, a range that suits most tropical plants, community fish and many shrimp.

Do not wash it

hygger is clear on this: pour the soil directly into the tank and do not rinse it. Washing removes beneficial microorganisms and can break the granules down into mud. Add water slowly over a plate or bag so the bed is not disturbed.

Setup water changes

New soils release nutrients at first. hygger recommends water changes every 3-5 days after setup, with a minimum of 3 changes before adding livestock. Test ammonia before adding shrimp. hygger also advises against adding it to an established tank, since the initial nutrient release may affect sensitive species.

Water softening

The porous sintered structure supports bacteria and naturally softens and slightly acidifies water. That suits plants and shrimp that like softer conditions.

Texture

The granules are fine and do not scatter easily, which helps with planting small stems and carpeting plants with tweezers.

Planting tips

• Slope the soil higher at the back for depth.
• Plant densely from day one to use the early nutrients.
• Keep lighting moderate until plants root.

Over time

Soils gradually lose nutrients and buffering. After many months, add root tabs like FZONE root tabs under heavy feeders.

Compared with others

Fluval Plant and Shrimp Stratum is another shrimp-focused soil. hygger’s version comes in a larger bag.

Keep any unused soil sealed in its bag and stored dry; it is handy for topping up low spots after a rescape. Avoid compressing the granules by stepping on or crushing the bag, which creates fine dust.

Darker soil also makes red shrimp and green plants stand out against the bed.