Helix pod – 10 count

Description

Helix Pods

Helix pods are curved, woody botanicals from Caesalpinia pulcherrima. Their twisted shape makes them an easy way to add more texture to aquariums, terrariums, and bioactive enclosures.

These pods work especially well mixed into leaf litter. They add some height and structure without taking up a ton of room. Plus, every pod has its own natural shape, so no two setups will look exactly the same.

Using Helix Pods in Terrariums

In reptile and bioactive enclosures, helix pods can help break up large areas of flat substrate or leaf litter. Place them around plants, bark, hides, and other botanicals to create a more natural forest-floor look.

Their curved shape also creates small spaces underneath and around the pod. Isopods and springtails can explore these areas and use the extra cover.

Because these pods are woody, they should last longer than softer materials like dried leaves. However, they will still change and slowly break down over time.

Using Helix Pods in Aquariums

Helix pods are also useful in freshwater aquariums. They can help recreate the look of woody plant material that collects along streams and flooded forest floors.

Once submerged, the surface provides another place for biofilm and microorganisms to develop. As a result, shrimp and other small grazers may spend time foraging around the pods. Helix Pods have specifically been used as foraging areas for shrimp and several groups of small freshwater fish.

Mix them with leaves and other aquarium botanicals for a more varied substrate. They also work well in blackwater-inspired and natural aquarium setups.

How to Make Helix Pods Sink

Dry helix pods will usually float when you first put them in water. Fortunately, preparation is pretty simple.

First, rinse each pod well with clean water. This will help remove loose dust and debris. Never use soap or household cleaners.

Next, boil the pods for at least 15 minutes. This helps them absorb water and start to sink. Some pieces may need a little longer.

After boiling, let the pods cool. If they still float, place them in a container of fresh water and continue soaking them.

You can use an aquarium-safe weight to keep stubborn pieces underwater. Once they stay submerged on their own, they’re ready to add to your aquarium.

What to Expect

Like other natural botanicals, helix pods will change after you add them to your setup.

In an aquarium, the pods may darken as they become fully saturated. You may also notice biofilm growing on the surface. Shrimp and other small grazers may feed on this growth.

The pods will eventually begin to soften and break down. However, their woody structure makes them a longer-lasting addition than many types of leaf litter.

In a terrarium, simply leave them in place as part of your botanical layer. You can replace them once they have broken down more than you would like.

 

Botanical source: Caesalpinia pulcherrima

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

Please note: These are natural products. Size, shape, color, and texture will vary from pod to pod.