ANS Catappa Leaf XL (5pcs)

Description

Indian almond leaves come from the Terminalia catappa tree. The leaf of this tree is especially known for its ability to act as a natural medicine and aquarium water conditioner for betta fish and shrimp tanks when the leaf has emerged in water for extended periods of time. Indian almond leaves are said to help combat fungus and bacterial problems like fin rot and can further help prevent fish from getting stressed by mimicking the water they are naturally found in.
When placed in water, Indian almond leaves slowly start to decompose. While this happens, the leaves turn the water a yellow or brown color by releasing tannins. These tannins gradually lower the pH of the water and are said to have antifungal and antibacterial properties, which comes in handy when you have a fish suffering from fin rot or when you’re raising vulnerable fry.
A common myth about the Indian Almond Leaf is that their benefits only come from their tannins. This view has been proven to be false. Humic acids this is including tannins do offer great benefits, Tannins offer many bacterial properties and are a component in many herbs. Almost any source of tannins will benefit an aquatic environment.
Analysis of Indian Almond Leaves thus far has revealed flavanoids, isovitexin, vitexin, isoorientin, rutin and triterpenoiods. Further identified are volatile oils, quercetin, corilagin, kamferolphenols, saponin, saponin glycosides, cardiac glycoside, balsam, and squalene. T. catappa leaf tannins include punicalagin, punicalin, geranin, granatin B, tergallagin, tercatain, terflavin A and B, chebulagic acid, and corilagin.
The medicinal properties of T. catappa have been proven repeatedly in scientific studies:

Anti-inflammatory

Antiparasite properties, including the eradication of Trichodina, Gyrodactylus sp. and Dactylogyrus sp.

Antibacterial properties have been proven against many strains, both negative and positive, and T. catappa leaf extracts continue to be explored as an alternative to antibiotics for the fish industry

Scientists have reported antifungal activity against Pythium ultimum, Rhizoctonia solani, Sclerotium rolfsii, and Aspergillus fumigatus
Indian Almond Leaf extract has also been used successfully as an antifungal for Tilapia eggs
Reduction in pH
Assist in lowering stress for tank inhabitants
Creation of bio-flim and beneficial bacteria that aid in shrimp keeping / breeding

Catappa, catapah, catapang, ketapang, ketepang, katapang, humus, humin, humic acid, black water, Indian almond, tannin, tannins

ANS Catappa Leaf XL for SG Betta and Shrimp Tanks

The XL leaves are our pick when hobbyists want maximum coverage from fewer pieces, ideal for larger betta or shrimp tanks where one big leaf can tint the whole volume. Singapore’s soft, slightly acidic tap water already leans toward the blackwater conditions many South-East Asian species evolved in, so catappa fits our local fishkeeping naturally. As the leaf steeps it releases tannins and humic substances, giving that amber tea-stain look and a gentler, calmer environment.

For shrimp keepers, the slowly decomposing leaf becomes a grazing surface as biofilm and microorganisms colonise it, which shrimplets feed on continuously between meals. We suggest rinsing off surface dust first, then adding a leaf and letting it sink over a day or two; soaking in warm water speeds sinking. Expect the water to darken, which is normal and welcomed in betta and shrimp displays alike.

Browse more under conditioners and medication. Our catappa leaf guide and tannins management guide explain dosing and clarity control, while the betta care guide covers the fish itself.