Willow Live Oak Leaf Litter | Quercus phellos

Willow Live Oak Leaf Litter on the Surface: Willow Live Oak Leaf Litter (Quercus phellos) comes from a narrow-leaved oak native to the floodplains and lowlands of the eastern and southeastern United States. The long, slender leaves loosely interlock on the substrate and soften slowly underwater, releasing tannins and polyphenols into the water column. In botanical method and blackwater aquariums, they provide shelter for shrimp and nano fish while supporting the microbial food web within the leaf litter bed. Essential Details Tannin Level: High Tint Color: Amber Durability: Slow to soften; decomposes over several months Habitat Location: Eastern and southeastern North America Optimal For: Bettas, gouramis, livebearers, rasboras, tetras, shrimp, pygmy sunfish, small North American natives, dart frogs, geckos, isopods, and springtails Use with Caution: Generally suitable for most species; monitor with very delicate or novel additions Size Range: Leaves typically 2–4.75 inches lon