{"product_id":"newcal-water-oak-dried-05oz","title":"NewCal Water Oak (Dried) 0.5oz","description":"\u003ch4\u003eNewCal Water Oak leaf litter can be an excellent addition to both terrariums and aquariums, offering several benefits:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTerrariums\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHumidity Regulation\u003c\/strong\u003e: The leaves help retain moisture and maintain humidity levels within the enclosure, which is beneficial for tropical or high-humidity terrariums.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMicrohabitats\u003c\/strong\u003e: Leaf litter provides hiding and foraging spots for small creatures like insects and amphibians.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNatural Aesthetics\u003c\/strong\u003e: It can enhance the natural look of the terrarium, contributing to a more realistic ecosystem.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAquariums\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTannin Release\u003c\/strong\u003e: Water oak leaves release tannins which can slightly lower the pH and soften the water, mimicking natural habitats like those in the Amazon or Southeast Asia.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBiofilm Development\u003c\/strong\u003e: The surface of the leaves can develop biofilm, which is a food source for shrimp and some fish species.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNatural Hiding Places\u003c\/strong\u003e: They provide cover and a sense of security for fish and invertebrates.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePreparation and Use\u003c\/strong\u003e:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCleaning\u003c\/strong\u003e: Make sure to rinse the leaves thoroughly to remove dirt and pesticides.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBoiling or Soaking\u003c\/strong\u003e: Boil or soak the leaves in hot water to break down any remaining pesticides and to help them sink in the aquarium or terrarium.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReplacement\u003c\/strong\u003e: Over time, the leaves will decompose and should be replaced periodically to maintain water quality and aesthetics.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsing water oak leaf litter is a great way to enrich the habitat of your terrarium or aquarium, creating a more balanced and visually appealing environment for your plants and animals.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"NewCal","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46980212064506,"sku":"NC-WTOK-05","price":9.99,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0127\/7486\/7034\/files\/Nc_Live_Water_Oak_Leaves.jpg?v=1735084322","url":"https:\/\/aquariumswest.com\/products\/newcal-water-oak-dried-05oz","provider":"Aquariums West ","version":"1.0","type":"link"}