Eucalyptus Seed Pods

Eucalyptus seed pods are small, naturally dried fruit capsules from Eucalyptus trees. Their woody texture and unusual shape make them a fun addition to aquariums, terrariums, and bioactive enclosures.

These pods are small enough to mix easily with leaf litter and other botanicals. Plus, their natural openings and textured surfaces add more variety than a flat layer of leaves alone.

Using Eucalyptus Seed Pods in Terrariums

Add eucalyptus seed pods to reptile enclosures, vivariums, isopod colonies, and other bioactive setups.

The pods create small spaces that isopods and springtails can explore. Some pods also have larger natural openings that may provide cover for very small enclosure inhabitants.

You can scatter them across your substrate or mix them into leaf litter. They also look great around live plants, bark, moss, and other seed pods.

Over time, the pods will begin to soften and break down. Therefore, they fit naturally into a bioactive setup instead of acting as permanent artificial decor.

Using Eucalyptus Seed Pods in Aquariums

Properly prepared eucalyptus seed pods can also be used in freshwater aquariums.

Once submerged, the textured surface provides space for biofilm to develop. Shrimp and other small grazers may forage across this growth. The pods can also release a moderate amount of tannins into the water.

As a result, you may notice an amber or tea-colored tint developing in your aquarium.

These pods work especially well in botanical and blackwater-inspired tanks. Mix them with leaves and other natural materials to create a varied aquascape.

How to Make Eucalyptus Seed Pods Sink

Eucalyptus requires a little more prep than simply rinsing and tossing it into your aquarium.

First, rinse the eucalyptus seed pods thoroughly with clean water. Never use soap or household cleaners.

Next, boil the pods for at least 15 minutes. This helps the dry pods absorb water. It also begins the process of leaching tannins and the trace natural eucalyptus oils found in the pods.

After boiling, allow the pods to cool. Then, move them into a container of fresh water.

Soak them overnight or longer until they become fully waterlogged. Change the soaking water daily. If a pod continues to float, simply give it more time.

Once the pods stay submerged on their own, they’re ready to add to your aquarium.

What to Expect

Eucalyptus seed pods naturally change after you add them to an aquarium or terrarium.

In an aquarium, they may darken and develop biofilm. They can also release tannins, which may gradually tint the water.

In a terrarium, the pods will slowly age and break down. Isopods and springtails can explore around them as they become part of the botanical layer.

If you’re new to aquarium botanicals, start with a small amount. Then, add more as you see how your tank responds.

Botanical source: Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus sp.)

Great for: Freshwater aquariums, shrimp tanks, blackwater-inspired setups, bioactive terrariums, reptile enclosures, isopod colonies, and springtails.

Aquarium preparation: Boil for at least 15 minutes, then soak overnight or longer until fully waterlogged.

Please note: These are natural products. Size, shape, color, and openings will vary between individual pods.

Tannin Botanicals

Eucalyptus Seed Pod