Stone Wood

Stone Wood is an extraordinary hardscape material that blurs the lines between wood and stone. Featuring bumpy, brain-like textures and sculptural mass, it mimics the appearance of rugged rocks, making it possible to create a wood-based Iwagumi layout-a concept once thought exclusive to stone.

Each piece of Stone Wood is naturally heavy and rich in character, with colors ranging from deep brown to ochre and golden tones. Its forms are bold and expressive, offering aquascapers and terrarium artists an opportunity to break creative boundaries.

An ideal wood for paludriums and terrariums, allowing the growth of epiphytic plants and moss on its brainy natural texture.

Beyond aesthetics, Stone Wood provides structure and shelter for aquatic and terrestrial species, while serving as a striking centerpiece in any environment.

The WIO difference: Our woods are responsibly sourced, untreated, and selected for their artistic potential-opening up new creative frontiers for habitat design.

See Stone Wood in action-explore our inspiration gallery.

• Stone-Like Texture: Unique bumpy and brainy surface mimics the shape of stones.
• Expressive Design: Ideal for Iwagumi-style layouts using wood instead of stone.
• Color Variety: Rich mix of dark brown, ochre, and golden hues.
• Bold Shapes: Naturally heavy and sculptural-each piece is one of a kind.
• Versatile: Suitable for aquariums, paludariums, and terrariums.
• Packaging: Sold by piece. Available in Mixed sizes (20–60 cm).
• Origin: Naturally aged and untreated.

Preparation and Handling Precautions

• Curing Required: Stone Wood must be cured before use to ensure water clarity and safe conditions.
• Basic Curing (for new setups or small loads):
  - Soak in warm water for 24 hours.
  - Rinse thoroughly before adding to your setup.
• Intensive Curing (for established aquariums with livestock)
  - Boil for 30–60 minutes to remove tannins and surface residues.
  - Then soak in clean water, changing daily, until water runs clear.
• Gradual Introduction: Introduce in stages to monitor changes in water chemistry.

Initial Buoyancy

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

Natural Organic Material

• Expect natural variations in color, texture, and shape-each piece is unique.

Water Monitoring

• Although visually stunning, Stone Wood releases tannins that may tint water a warm cognac hue.
• Maintain kH ≥ 3 for a stable buffer and monitor pH regularly.
• Test pH, kH, and gH weekly during the initial setup phase.
• Perform partial water changes as needed to manage coloration and balance.
• Biofilm or saprolegnia may appear early on-this is harmless and part of the natural maturation process. Remove manually if needed; it will fade over time.

Placement

• Emphasize Form and Mass: Position Stone Wood like you would a rock in Iwagumi layouts-use odd-numbered groupings or asymmetrical placement to enhance natural flow.
• Combine with sand or minimal planting for a raw, sculptural look, or pair with mosses for softness and contrast.
• Slightly embed pieces in the substrate to anchor the composition and enhance realism.