Cay AquaSoil

CAY Aqua Soil is an active planted-tank substrate that supports healthy root growth and helps buffer water for a stable planted aquarium. The granular soil promotes strong plant development and a natural-looking aquascape. Available in 3L and 9L bags; grain size approximately 1–2mm.

Active substrate / soil, targeted at both shrimp (especially soft-water species) and aquatic plants.

Core benefits: Lowers and stabilises pH to a slightly acidic level (~ 6.0-6.5). Reduces carbonate hardness (KH) to ~0-2°d depending on source water.  Supplies trace minerals/humic & fulvic acids to support both plants and shrimp health. Porous granules create good surface area for beneficial bacteria (important for shrimp bio-filtration).

Suitable Use Cases & Target Species: Ideal for shrimp species requiring soft, acidic water (e.g., bee shrimp, Crystal Reds, etc). Suitable for planted tanks: root-friendly substrate, supports healthy plant growth. Especially useful if you want one substrate that works for both shrimp & plants, which seems to be your goal. Less suitable if you have species that prefer neutral to alkaline water (the substrate actively lowers pH).   

Installation / Usage Tips: Place the substrate unwashed into the dry aquarium, to a depth of approx. 3-5 cm. Fill with water carefully (so as not to disturb the substrate too much). Cycle the tank before introducing shrimp  especially with active soils, you may get an initial spike in ammonia or changes in water chemistry. Monitor pH, KH, and GH (general hardness) especially in the first weeks to ensure stability. Since the substrate gradually buffers the water, the effect will diminish over time (2+ years depending on use and water hardness).