Striped Wood

• Extremely Rare: Sourced in limited quantities due to its natural scarcity.
• Striped Texture: Unique striped patterning adds visual interest and contrast.
• Dynamic Form: Thick base and flowing branches allow expressive ryoboku formations.
• Tannin-Free: Releases minimal tannins for crystal-clear water.
• Natural Stability: Heavy wood offers excellent structural support in aquascapes.
• Versatile: Ideal for aquariums, paludariums, and terrariums.
• Packaging: Sold by piece. Available in Small, Medium, and Large (20–120 cm).
• Origin: Responsibly collected, nature-aged, and untreated.

Preparation and Handling Precautions

• Curing Required: Striped Wood is a natural material and should be cured before introduction into aquariums or terrariums.
• Basic Curing (for new setups or small loads):
  - Soak in warm water for 24 hours.
  - Rinse thoroughly before use.
• Intensive Curing (for mature aquariums with livestock):
  - Boil for 30–60 minutes to eliminate any potential contaminants.
  - Follow with daily soaking in fresh water until it runs clear.
• Gradual Introduction: Introduce slowly to monitor potential water chemistry changes. Start with small pieces if uncertain.

Initial Buoyancy

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

Natural Organic Material

• Variations in color, shape, and texture are part of its natural beauty-no two pieces are alike.

Water Monitoring

• Although low in tannins, driftwood can slightly lower pH.
• Maintain kH ≥ 3 for a stable buffer and monitor pH regularly.
• Test pH, kH, and gH weekly during initial setup.
• Perform partial water changes as needed to maintain water balance.
• Biofilm or saprolegnia may appear in early stages-this is normal and beneficial. Remove manually if desired; it will fade over time.

Placement

• Highlight Its Natural Flow: Position Striped Wood so its curves and branches lead the eye across your layout. Use flow direction, plant accents, or negative space to amplify its impact.
• Place diagonally or partially embedded in substrate for a more organic feel.
• Combine multiple pieces for layered, naturalistic compositions.