(SKU: LS500A5365) It seems that almost all the leaves we utilize in our aquariums provide some medicinal or antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. Leaves of the Katahal, which is also known as the Jack fruit tree, are no different and also have healing properties for human use.
These tropical botanicals make a great addition to any aquarium with shrimp or fish, young or old. Killifish and others dwarf them at 1 to 2 leaves per 10 gallons of aquarium volume. Like most other leaves it is recommended to boil them for a couple of minutes to help them sink faster in the aquarium.
Jackfruit contains phytonutrients, such as lignans, isoflavones, and saponins that have health benefits that are wide-ranging for humans. There is some conflicting data regarding jackfruit's antifungal activity. However, the leaves are thought to exhibit a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity. In traditional medicine, these leaves are used to help heal wounds as well. Do these properties transfer over to our fishes and shrimp? We are not aware of any scientific studies that have been completed to correlate one way or another, so for now, we're content to utilize these leaves for their aesthetics- and proven ability to impart a tannin tint into aquarium water!
These are nicely shaped, high-quality leaves that bring a very nice "tropical" aesthetic to the aquarium, as well as that tint we love so much around here! They will last a pretty long time- not quite as long as Magnolia, but longer than Catappa and Guava, in our experience. They are pretty good-sized, too! When we tested them, after one month submerged, we found them to be almost as "solid" as the day they were placed in the tank! They will recruit biofilms on their surfaces, which ornamental shrimp love to feed on- as well as consuming the leaves themselves as they soften. They look great either on their own or as a component of a mixed leaf litter bed in your aquarium!
Benefits of using Jack fruit leave in your fish/Shrimp tank:
- Reduces the risk of bacterial and fungal outbreaks
- Provides great natural cover
- Provides biofilm grazing
- Stimulates breeding
- Reduces pH
- Water Conditioner
- Addition of Trace Minerals
- Prevents fungus forming on the eggs of fish
- Stimulates breeding
