Centurion Wood

Centurion Wood is not just driftwood-it's a living artifact. With its deep reddish-brown tones and interwoven, sculptural branches, it brings bold contrast and dynamic movement to aquascapes, terrariums, and paludariums alike.

Often over 100 years old, Centurion Wood reflects the Mediterranean’s enduring connection between land, tradition, and time. Its naturally aged structure provides both aesthetic value and functional benefits-creating hiding spots and shelter for aquatic and terrestrial species.

Unlike other woods that are low in tannins, Centurion Wood does release tannins during the first month, which may temporarily tint the water a warm amber tone. This effect is harmless-and even beneficial-but can be minimized with pre-soaking or boiling.

Pair Centurion Wood with calming plants and neutral rocks to create stunning visual contrast and organic balance in any setup.

The WIO difference: Carefully selected and naturally aged, each piece embodies history, texture, and ecological harmony.

See Centurion Wood in action-browse our inspiration gallery.

• Historical Texture: Wood pieces are over 100 years old-rich with Mediterranean tradition.
• Dynamic Form: Twisting, interwoven branches create exciting shapes and layout possibilities.
• Color & Contrast: Deep reddish-brown tones pair beautifully with green plants and cool stone.
• Tannin-Rich: Naturally releases tannins that replicate Amazon-style biotopes.
• Functional & Aesthetic: Provides shelter for aquatic and terrestrial life.
• Versatile: Ideal for aquariums, paludariums, and terrariums.
• Packaging: Sold by piece. Available in S (10-20 cm), M (20-30 cm), L (30-50 cm), and XL (50–70 cm).
• Origin: Naturally aged Mediterranean hardwood, untreated and authentic.

Preparation and Handling Precautions

• Curing Required: Centurion Wood must be properly cured before use, especially in aquariums.
• Basic Curing (for new setups or small loads):
  - Soak in warm water for 24 hours.
  - Rinse thoroughly before placing in your layout.
• Intensive Curing (for mature aquariums with livestock):
  - Boil for 30–60 minutes to release tannins and impurities.
  - Follow by soaking in clean water, changing daily, until water runs clear.
• Gradual Introduction: Add gradually to observe effects on water chemistry.

Initial Buoyancy

• Wood may float initially. Soak for up to a month or temporarily secure using rocks, anchors, or WIO’s ScapeGlue Kits until fully waterlogged.

Natural Organic Material

• Each piece is unique-expect natural variation in shape, color, and texture.

Water Monitoring

• Although rich in character, Centurion Wood releases tannins that may darken the water.
• Maintain kH ≥ 3 for a stable buffer and monitor pH regularly.
• Test pH, kH, and gH weekly during the first few weeks.
• Perform partial water changes if needed to manage coloration or balance.
• Biofilm or saprolegnia may appear early on-this is a natural process and harmless. Remove manually if desired; it will naturally subside.

Placement

• Showcase the Form: Place Centurion Wood so its twisted structure flows with the layout.
• Use diagonals, negative space, and surrounding plants to accentuate its dramatic curves.
• Combine with neutral rocks and lush greenery for strong contrast and harmony.