Ultum Nature Systems Controsoil is an aquarium soil from Japan made of high-quality natural soil and volcanic ash. Choosing a proper substrate is vital for any successful planted aquarium. This is not only for aquarium plants to flourish but also to buffer the water to optimum levels for certain fish and shrimp.
Controsoil by UNS will keep the pH of alkaline water below 7 which is ideal for keeping Caridina shrimp and most tropical fish.
Controsoil is the perfect solution for those who want good plant growth without the headache of excessive ammonia. With other aquarium soils, it is common to experience algae spikes during the initial month or two of a new set up. This is commonly referred to as “new tank syndrome” and is characterized by brown or green algae on the glass, aquatic plants, and hardscape along with cloudy or smelly water.
This phenomenon is caused by high levels of ammonia (NH3) which many soil manufacturers add to their products. Although the ammonia helps to cycle the tank, too much can cause problems so it is necessary for users to do daily water changes during the first few weeks of use until the planted tank is established. However, many users have reported success with using Controsoil and adding shrimp or fish within 24 hours of a new set up, but we always recommend cycling the tank first and making sure ammonia and nitrites are at 0.
How much soil do I need?
Length x Width x Desired Substrate Height (in inches)
Divided by 60
= Liters of soil needed
Specifications:
Normal Granules ~ 5mm
Good for larger tanks (20 gallons or above) with larger plants.
Fine Granules ~ 3mm
Perfect for smaller planted tanks (less than 20 gallons). Controsoil can also be used as a top coat and placed on top of medium granules. Finer soil granules help small root plants, such as Hemianthus Callitrichoides, to anchor into the substrate easier. This also helps prevent pesky floating upon filling the tank.
Extra Fine Granules ~ 1mm
Perfect for smaller planted tanks (Less than 20 gallons), or to use as a topcoat to place on top of medium and fine granules. Finer soil granules help small root plants, such as Hemianthus Callitrichoides, to anchor into the substrate easier. This also helps prevent pesky floating upon filling the tank.
Choosing a quality substrate is an essential part of a nature aquarium as it provides vital nutrients for lush plant growth and helps balance water properties by decreasing the hardness/pH to optimal levels for aquatic plants, shrimp, and most tropical fish.
Originating in Japan, Ultum Nature Systems Controsoil consists of high-quality natural soil and volcanic ash. It’s common for competing substrates to cause ammonia levels to spike. While this helps “jump start” a tank and promotes plant growth; it is toxic to livestock and can cause unsightly algae during initial stages of an aquarium set up. Controsoil provides the perfect level of nutrients without excess. Many have successfully added livestock within the first 24 hours of a newly set up tank with this substrate without worry. We do, however, suggest making sure that ammonia and nitrites are eliminated before adding livestock.
Controsoil is available in various granule sizes and colors to accommodate user preference and aquatic plant choice.
No Rinsing Required
Inhibits cloudy water by actively absorbing impurities
Low Ammonia Release
Promotes and accelerates beneficial bacteria growth
pH & kH buffering
Buffers water to slightly acidic pH and lowers total water hardness for better aquatic plant nutrient consumption environment
Optimal For Fish And Shrimp
Suitable for all fresh water inhabitants such as tropical fish and shrimp that prefer slightly acidic aquarium water
Designed For Planted Aquariums
Granule composition and sizes provide optimal oxygen exchange and rich nutrients for aquatic plants
AVAILABLE GRANULE SIZES AND COLORS
EXTRA FINE
Great for top-offs and nano tanks
FINE
Ideal for shorter root aquatic plants such as foreground plants
NORMAL
The standard for larger scale aquariums and aquatic plants with thicker roots
APPLICATION GUIDE
| Volume |
Tank Size Recommendation |
| 1 Liter |
2 Gallon Tank
Ultum Nature Systems 20C Cube Tank |
| 3 Liter |
9 Gallon Tank
Ultum Nature Systems 45U Standard Tank |
| 10 Liter |
20 Gallon Tank
Ultum Nature Systems 60U Standard Tank |
2 MONTH PROGRESS
Controsoil was used in a practical aquarium setting. A complete planted aquarium was achieved easily with weekly 40% water changes using normal tap water. No additional nutrients were introduced.
Ultum Nature Systems Controsoil along with a competing freshwater planted aquarium soil were scientifically tested in a controlled environment. The test was performed by a published, independent third party and consisted of an experiment using both soils side by side for a 2 week duration. RODI water was used and water changes were not performed for the entire duration to ensure continuity and to prevent data inaccuracy that would adversely affect final results.
The below findings indicate that Ultum Nature Systems Controsoil is an ideal choice for all freshwater planted aquariums.*
TOTAL DISSOLVED SOLIDS (TDS)
CONTROSOIL BLACK CONTROSOIL BROWN COMPETITOR
Measured in Parts Per Million [PPM]
Measures the levels of combined organic and inorganic substances found in aquarium water other than pure H2O molecules. These solids consist primarily of minerals, salts and organic matter. This measurement can be used to determine the water source’s general quality and purity. Weekly water changes are encouraged to decrease TDS.
