Spiderwood

Aquaglobe Spiderwood | Dramatic Branching Driftwood for Aquascaping and Planted Aquariums

Spiderwood is one of the most characterful and visually dramatic driftwood varieties available for freshwater aquascaping. Its gnarly, twisting, spider-like branching structure — with thin, curling branches that reach outward in every direction — creates an extraordinary three-dimensional form that brings genuine depth, movement, and a wild, ancient quality to any aquascape. No two pieces are alike, and the irregular, organic sprawl of each piece means it integrates naturally into planted layouts in a way that more uniform or symmetrical hardscape simply cannot replicate.

Its reddish-brown tones and intricate branching work beautifully both as a central focal point and as a background anchor — filling vertical space, framing planting, and providing the kind of complex structure that makes a planted aquarium look genuinely established rather than newly set up.

Aquascaping With Spiderwood

Spiderwood’s fine, multi-directional branching makes it exceptionally versatile in aquascape design. Use it as a large background piece where its full branching spread can be appreciated, break it into smaller sections to create arches, bridges, or layered mid-tank features, or combine multiple pieces to build a dense, interlocking root structure across the full width of a tank. Mosses, Weeping Moss, Java Fern, Anubias, and Bucephalandra all attach readily to its fine branches — gradually draping and softening the wood’s form into something genuinely spectacular over time.

Its porous surface also develops biofilm readily, making it a valued addition to shrimp tanks where grazing surfaces matter as much as visual impact.

A Note on Tannins and Preparation

Spiderwood releases tannins into the water when first submerged, gradually tinting it a warm amber colour. Soaking in a bucket of water for several days before adding to the tank — changing the water daily — significantly reduces this. For aquarists who prefer completely clear water, running activated carbon in the filter after adding the wood will help maintain clarity. The tannin release is completely harmless and beneficial for many fish and shrimp species from soft, acidic water habitats.

Spiderwood may initially float — soaking beforehand helps waterlog the wood and encourages it to sink naturally. For pieces that continue to float, anchoring to a rock or weighted base with aquarium-safe adhesive is the most effective solution.

Preparation and Safety

• Rinse thoroughly under clean tap water before use — never use soap, detergent, or any cleaning products, as even trace residue is toxic to fish, shrimp, and invertebrates
• Do not boil Spiderwood — its fine, delicate branching structure makes it particularly susceptible to cracking and breaking under extreme temperature changes. A thorough rinse and extended soak is the correct preparation method
• Soak in a bucket of clean water for several days before adding to the aquarium to reduce tannin release and help the wood sink
• A white, cotton-like biofilm may appear on the surface in the first few weeks — completely harmless and will disappear on its own or be consumed by shrimp and cleanup crew
• Each piece is completely unique in shape, branching pattern, and character — natural variation is part of the appeal

Ideal For

• Nature-style, biotope, and planted aquascapes as a central or background hardscape feature
• Shrimp tanks — fine branching and textured surfaces provide exceptional biofilm grazing and shelter
• Nano aquascapes where the intricate branching structure adds visual complexity at small scale
• Plant attachment — mosses, Java Fern, Weeping Moss, Anubias, and Bucephalandra establish beautifully across the fine branches
• Paludariums and mixed aquatic and terrestrial setups