Cholla Wood

Cholla Wood | Unique Desert Cactus Wood for Shrimp Tanks and Planted Aquariums

Cholla Wood is one of the most unusual and fascinating natural materials available for aquarium use — and not what most people expect when they first hear about it. The dried, hollow skeleton of the Cholla cactus, a fallen desert plant native to arid regions of North and South America, its tubular, lattice-like structure is unlike any conventional driftwood — an open, fibrous framework of interconnected holes and channels that creates extraordinary micro-habitat for shrimp, invertebrates, and aquatic microfauna.

Submerged in an aquarium, Cholla Wood transforms from an arid desert relic into one of the most biologically active and visually intriguing pieces of natural décor available. Biofilm colonises its porous interior and exterior surfaces rapidly, providing a rich and constant natural food source that shrimp graze on endlessly — making it particularly prized in shrimp breeding setups. Its hollow tubular form also provides shelter for shrimplets, small fish, and invertebrates, and its open lattice structure makes it an excellent anchor for aquatic mosses and fine-leaved plants.

Tannins and Water Chemistry

Cholla Wood releases tannins naturally as it breaks down in water — gradually tinting the water a warm amber colour and gently lowering pH over time. This is completely harmless and beneficial for many shrimp and fish species from soft, acidic water environments. Pre-soaking before use significantly reduces the initial tannin release and helps the wood sink more readily.

Preparation

We recommend soaking Cholla Wood in a separate container of clean water for up to two weeks before adding it to your aquarium, changing the water daily. This removes excess tannins and allows the wood to become fully waterlogged so it sinks naturally. Use a clean brush to remove any loose debris during soaking. For additional peace of mind, boiling for one hour before the final placement sterilises the wood effectively — unlike denser driftwood varieties, Cholla Wood’s open structure makes it well suited to boiling without risk of cracking or splitting.

Important — Preparation Note

• Never use soap, detergent, or any cleaning products on Cholla Wood or any aquarium décor — even trace residue is toxic to fish, shrimp, and invertebrates
• A white, cotton-like biofilm may appear on the surface after adding to the tank — completely harmless and will be consumed eagerly by shrimp and cleanup crew
• Cholla Wood breaks down over time in water — this is natural and part of its value as a biological enrichment piece. Replace when fully broken down

Key Benefits

• Porous, fibrous structure develops rich biofilm — an essential natural food source for shrimp and aquatic microfauna
• Hollow tubular form provides shelter and hiding spots for shrimplets, small fish, and invertebrates
• Natural tannin release gently lowers pH — beneficial for soft water and blackwater setups
• Excellent anchor for aquatic mosses and fine-leaved plants
• Completely natural, chemical-free, and safe for all freshwater fish, shrimp, and invertebrates
• Breaks down slowly, contributing organic matter and enrichment to the aquarium ecosystem over time

Ideal For

• Shrimp tanks — biofilm grazing, shelter for shrimplets, and moulting cover
• Planted aquariums as a natural anchor for mosses and fine-leaved plants
• Blackwater and biotope setups where tannin release and pH buffering are desirable
• Nano aquascapes where its unique tubular form creates a striking and unusual focal point
• Community tanks as natural shelter and enrichment for small fish and invertebrates
  

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