IAL Specs
Indian Almond Leaves (Terminalia Catappa) also known as Ketapang Leaves are becoming very popular amongst fish keepers/breeders, not just in South-East Asia but around the world, as a natural medicine and water conditioner for aquarium use.
Benefits of Indian Almond Leaves include:
- Natural Water Conditioner. Humic (organis acids) and tannins found in IAL naturally lowers the PH, absorbs harmful chemicals and creates a soothing calm environment
- Natural method of adding trace minerals to water
- Natural anti-inflammatory (derived from Quercetin, a type of flavanoid found in IAL, which is considered to have natural anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties)
- Natural decorative material (fish kept in an environment that mimic their natural habitats tend to grow stronger and heartier)
- Natural food source for dwarf crayfish and shrimp
- Key in the care and breeding of Betta species
Dosage:
Standard Dosage: One Large Leaf/ 20 litres or One Small Leaf/15 litres are recommended though dosages as high as 1 Large Leaf 7.5 litres or 1 Small Leaf/ 5 litres are used by some Betta breeders. Leaves should be replaced approximately every 2-4 weeks or when leaves start to noticeably break apart. Dosages are a guide only and should be tailored for the aquarist’s personal needs and taste regarding aesthetics or both leaf litter and water colouration.
Betta Breeding:
Large Leaves: One (1) leaf/ 10 litres in breeding tanks and One (1) leaf/ 40 litres in rearing tanks.
Small Leaves: One (1) leaf/ 7 litres in breeding tanks and One (1) leaf/ 25 litres in rearing tanks.
The following link provides alterante methods of dosing IAL in your aquarium.