{"product_id":"newcal-mahogany-stars-1-oz","title":"NewCal Mahogany Stars 1 oz","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNewCal Mahogany Seed Pods | Natural Botanical Décor for Blackwater Aquariums\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eMahogany Stars are the dried seed pods of the Swietenia mahagoni tree — a striking and versatile botanical that brings both natural beauty and genuine functional benefits to freshwater aquariums, shrimp tanks, and bioactive setups. Their distinctive star-shaped form and warm reddish-brown colouration settle naturally into any aquascape, adding an authentic, forest-floor aesthetic that complements driftwood, leaf litter, and other botanicals beautifully.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eLike all natural seed pods, Mahogany Stars release tannins and humic acids as they slowly break down — contributing to the soft, slightly acidic, tannin-rich water conditions that many tropical fish, shrimp, and invertebrates thrive in. Their textured surfaces also develop a natural coating of biofilm over time, providing an excellent grazing surface for shrimp, fry, and other small invertebrates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Benefits\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReleases tannins and humic acids gradually, contributing to blackwater conditions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEncourages biofilm growth — a valuable natural food source for shrimp and fry\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDistinctive star-shaped form adds natural visual interest and texture to any aquascape\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompletely natural, chemical-free, and safe for all fish, shrimp, and invertebrates\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBreaks down slowly, providing long-lasting botanical benefits\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eRinse thoroughly before adding to the aquarium. Pods may initially float — soaking in water for 24–48 hours beforehand will help them sink more readily. Scatter across the substrate, tuck between rocks and driftwood, or place in open areas where their striking shape can be appreciated. Replace as they break down over time. A white, cotton-like biofilm may develop on the surface in the first week — completely harmless and will be consumed by shrimp and cleanup crew.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e1 oz package\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNatural product — size, shape, and colour vary between pieces\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApproximately 10–15 pods per package depending on size\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIdeal For\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBlackwater and biotope aquarium setups\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShrimp tanks — biofilm growth and tannin release benefit all shrimp species\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBetta tanks and dwarf cichlid setups\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNature-style and planted aquascapes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePaludariums and bioactive terrarium setups\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e","brand":"NewCal Pet","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49114831651038,"sku":null,"price":9.48,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0645\/4768\/4574\/files\/Photo_c76bf674-ca83-49a4-aa92-26174c534b16.png?v=1741201181","url":"https:\/\/poseidonaquaticsandplants.com\/products\/newcal-mahogany-stars-1-oz","provider":"Poseidon Aquatics And Plants","version":"1.0","type":"link"}