Dried Cactus Pepe Cone Stems (10 Pack)

Did you know there are over 35 species of Cholla cactus, each producing unique skeletal stems commonly known in the aquarium hobby as Cholla wood? Despite the name, Cholla wood is not actually wood at all. It is the naturally dried inner skeleton left behind after the cactus dies, making it completely aquarium safe when properly prepared.

Castle Dawn Aquatics Cholla Wood Stems are a favourite among DIY aquascapers and shrimp keepers. These stems are naturally hollow for most of their length and can be fully hollowed if desired, allowing them to be stacked, joined, or arranged into elaborate aquascaping structures. Their porous surface and internal cavities make them an exceptional natural grazing and shelter option for freshwater shrimp, fry, and small fish.

All Castle Dawn Aquatics botanicals are organically sourced and naturally sun-dried without the use of chemicals or ethanol.

Tannins Released: Low

Key Features and Important Notes:

• What’s Included:
  1 × Pack of Cholla Wood Stems
  ⚠️ For aquarium use only. Not for human consumption.
• Average Size:
  15 to 20 cm (5.9 to 7.9 inches)
• Source:
  Mexico
• Flora:
  Cylindropuntia fulgida
• DIY Aquascaping Friendly:
  Naturally hollow stems can be further drilled or shaped, making them ideal for custom aquascaping structures and creative layouts.
• Ideal for Shrimp and Fry:
  Encourages natural foraging and grazing behaviour while providing shelter for shrimp, fry, and small fish.
• Biofilm Development:
  Highly porous surface promotes biofilm growth, creating a continuous natural food source for shrimp and plecos.
• Low Tannin Release:
  Adds subtle tannins without heavily tinting the water, ideal for aquariums requiring minimal colour change.
• pH Support:
  Gently contributes to soft water conditions without rapid or extreme pH shifts.
• Preparation Instructions:
  Boil for 60 minutes, then soak in cold water overnight before adding to your aquarium.
• Organic and Safe:
  Organically sourced, naturally sun-dried, and free from pesticides, chemicals, and ethanol.
• Natural Variation:
  This is a natural product. Colour, shape, thickness, and internal structure will vary from piece to piece.
• Conservation Support:
  Part of the Wild Betta Rescue Program. Every purchase helps support conservation efforts across Southeast Asia.