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bio-Boost Substrate+
Substrate+ is a one-of-a-kind, precision-formulated microbial base layer developed to activate and stabilize the root zone of planted aquariums. By combining high CEC clay “Mineral Vaults,” porous biochar, and a curated microbial inoculant, Substrate+ transforms inert substrates into biologically active growth mediums. It supports long-term nutrient retention, microbial cycling, and plant-root interface development—without nutrient leech or excess organics.
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Who It’s For / Use Cases
Substrate+ is formulated for aquarists seeking to build a biologically stable, plant-forward aquarium from the ground up. It integrates into a wide range of system typesand is best suited for:
- Low-tech planted tanks that require stable root access to nutrients and organic cycling without added fertilizers.
- High-energy aquascapes where deep-rooted plants benefit from long-term nutrient retention and active microbial zones.
- Ecological builds prioritizing natural decomposition, biofilm development, and substrate resilience.
- Terrariums and paludariums where live microbial substrates support organic matter breakdown and root development.
- Dry starts or new builds requiring biome activation and substrate conditioning from day one.
- Advanced systems using active substrates — where low doses of Substrate+ can reinforce microbial balance and waste handling when applied with precision.
Substrate+ must be applied during setup beneath a substrate layer. It is not suitable for post-fill or retrofit applications.
Note: Substrate+ is not recommended for acidic, minimally planted systems such as blackwater biotopes, where nutrient dynamics and microbial needs differ significantly from planted environments. Ask us about our upcoming Blackwater Bloom Pods trials - these are specifically aimed at Blackwater ecosystems, with microbial load na d prebiotic support tailored towards these unique and sensitibve systems.
bio-Boost Substrate+ - Stability Starts Below
Plants need more than just chemical fertilizers to truly thrive. Substrate+ is formulated to emulate natural nutrient cycles within your aquarium—no garden soil required (sorry, Dr. Walstad!).
- High CEC Clay “Mineral Vault” – Locks nutrients into the root zone for targeted uptake, preventing leaching into the water column.
- Porous Biochar Matrix – Enhances microbial colonisation, supports substrate-based carbon cycling, prevents substrate compaction, and buffers organic load in aerobic root zones.
- Targeted Microbial Inoculant – Introduces acurated blend of beneficial bacteria and fungi that drive root-zone nutrient cycling, facilitate waste decomposition, and support stable microbial guilds. Optimised for aerobic conditions to enhance substrate function.
- Zero Nutrient Leech – Contains no added fertilisers, ammonia, or mobile nutrient salts. Nutrients are locked in the root zone where plants can access them, without affecting the water column. Cannot trigger algae blooms or ammonia spikes, making it safe for sensitive livestock and early-stage systems.
- Modular Application – Flexible Integration – Designed for use beneath inert substrates during initial setup. Compatible with low-tech, high-energy, and soil-free planted systems. Scales with plant density and root load for precision biotope control from day one.
Application Rate:
For Low Tech or Low Load Systems: Up to 10g per 900 cm² substrate surface area
For High Tech or High Load systems: Up to 20g per 900 cm² substrate surface area
How to find your substrate surface area:
Measure the Length and Width (in cm) of your aquarium (or the area you want to apply Substrate+). Multiply these together to get your surface area in cm2
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The Science Behind Substrate+
Each ingredient in Substrate+ has been selected for a specific ecological function within the root zone. Together, they form a stable foundation that supports long-term biological activity, nutrient cycling, and microbial balance.
Biochar
A micro-porous carbon matrix that provides habitat for beneficial microbes,stabilizes organic load, and prevents substrate compaction. Supports aerobic root-zone conditions and facilitates localized carbon cycling. Its structure helps maintain oxygen penetration, reducing the risk of anaerobic pockets within deep substrates that may release harmful or foul-smelling gases.
Brewer’s Yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae)
Rich in protein, B vitamins, beta-glucans, and trace minerals, this inactive yeast serves as a microbial stimulant and nutritional base. It supports enzymatic activity, encourages microbial diversity, and fosters early biofilm development within the substrate.
Inulin
A soluble, plant-derived prebiotic fiber that selectively feeds beneficial bacteria. Enhances microbial colonization in the substrate and supports stable biofilm development without promoting opportunistic blooms in the water column.
Zeolite
A high-surface-area mineral that adsorbs ammonium (NH₄⁺), reducing nitrogen spikes and supporting stable nutrient cycling. Its porous structure provides additional colonization surfaces for nitrifying and heterotrophic microbes within the root zone.
Calcium Bentonite
A mineral-rich clay that enhances cation exchange capacity (CEC), forming part of the substrate’s “Mineral Vault.” It helps bind and retain nutrients in the rootzone while creating subtle anaerobic micro zones for denitrification. Also contributes to pH buffering within the substrate layer, improving long-term chemical stability.
Laterite Powder
A natural, iron-rich mineral that contributes slow-release iron and essential trace elements directly to the root zone. Non-leaching and chemically stable,it integrates into the “Mineral Vault,” supporting long-term plant health and sustained nutrient availability without affecting water clarity.
bio-Boost™ CORE Microbes
A curated microbial consortium selected for its ability to establish functional biofilms, drive nutrient cycling, and enhance substrate stability. Each strain plays a distinct role in maintaining a balanced root-zone ecosystem, while actively preventing pathogenic bacteria and microbes from establishing within the substrate.
- Pseudomonas fluorescens – Drives nitrogen cycling and organic matter decomposition.
- Pseudomonas putida – Breaks down waste compounds and supports water clarity.
- Bacillus subtilis – Promotes biofilm formation, suppresses opportunistic pathogens, and produces plant-beneficial phytohormones.
- Bacillus licheniformis – Assists in the degradation of excess organic waste and detritus.
- Bacillus mucilaginosus – Enhances microbial cohesion through mucilage production and promotes cooperative colonization.
- Bacillus pumilus – Aids in the breakdown of uneaten food and organic debris, stabilizing nutrient input.
- Bacillus polymyxa – Supports root health and microbial balance, especially under fluctuating load conditions.
FAQ
Can I use Substrate+ with ADA Amazonia or other active substrates?
Yes, but use caution. Substrate+ can enhance microbial stability beneath active substrates when used at reduced doses. For nutrient-heavy soils like ADA Amazonia, we recommend no more than half the standard dose (no more than 5g/900cm2), applied during initial setup. Feel free to Contact Us for more information.
Will Substrate+ Cloud My Water?
No,when used correctly. Substrate+ is a dry powder applied before flooding. Adding it to an already filled tank may cause significant clouding and biofilm surges. Always apply to a dry base layer prior to adding substrate and water.
Is Substrate+ safe for shrimp, snails, and fry?
Yes. Substrate+ contains no added fertilizers, heavy metals, or mobile compounds that would harm sensitive invertebrates or fry. Its microbial community is tuned for substrate function and does not affect the water column when used as directed.
⚠️Please ensure that you correctly cycle your Aquarium. Substrate+ is NOT a substitute for a complete Nitrogen Cycle
Can I add Substrate+ to specific parts of my substrate?
Yes. Substrate+ can be used in localized zones during setup to support specific planting layouts.Heavier doses (up to 20 g per 900 cm²)are ideal beneath areas with dense root feeders or nutrient-hungry species. For aquascaping, this allows you to focus biological support where it’s needed most.
Addendum: You can also choose to apply Substrate+ only to planted regions of the tank. There is no need to inoculate zones that will remain unplanted or sparsely populated.