Ultum Nature Systems Black Aquarium Sand, Maui 8L, 0.4–0.9 mm Inert Substrate

Ultum Nature Systems Controsand Maui is natural black sand for freshwater aquariums, planted tanks, terrariums and paludariums, supplied in an 8 L quantity with a 0.4–0.9 mm grain size.

• Formulated to remain inert in freshwater and planted aquariums — helps maintain stable water parameters.
• Deep black sand — adds contrast that helps green plants and colorful fish stand out.
• Pre-washed substrate — can be placed in the tank, with a light rinse recommended to remove residual fine particles.
• Smooth sand texture — offers shrimp and bottom-dwelling fish a gentle surface for movement and foraging.
• Adaptable for different aquascaping styles and compact or larger setups — suits a range of freshwater layouts.

Choosing a substrate affects both the look of a habitat and the surface available to its animals. Controsand Maui is made for freshwater aquariums and planted layouts where a dark base can define plants and fish, while its inert formulation is intended to help keep water parameters stable. Its named uses also include terrariums and paludariums, with bettas, shrimp, fish, jumping spiders and turtles among the animals identified for the substrate.

Is Controsand Maui suitable for a planted freshwater aquarium?

Yes. Ultum Nature Systems Controsand Maui is formulated to remain inert in freshwater and planted aquariums, helping maintain stable water parameters. Its black colour gives planted scenes a contrasting base, so green foliage and colourful fish are more visually distinct. The substrate can be used in layouts ranging from minimal nature setups to densely planted designs.

• Designed for freshwater aquariums, including planted tanks.
• Black substrate creates contrast within an aquascape.

What does the sand look and feel like in a tank?

Controsand Maui is fine-grained black sand, with grains measuring 0.4–0.9 mm. The fine size gives the substrate a close-grained appearance, while the dark colour helps define the shapes and colours in an aquarium. Its smooth texture is suited to shrimp and bottom-dwelling fish as they move across the surface and forage.

• Fine grain size: 0.4–0.9 mm.
• Smooth surface for shrimp and bottom-dwelling fish.

How do you prepare Controsand Maui, and where can it be used?

Ultum Nature Systems Controsand Maui arrives pre-washed and can be placed directly into a setup. A light rinse before adding it helps remove residual fine particles and maintain water clarity. Beyond freshwater aquariums, the product is intended for terrarium and paludarium substrates, making it an option for the different habitat types named for it.

• Supplied pre-washed for setup.
• Use a light rinse to clear residual fine particles before placement.

Controsand Maui suits aquarists building a freshwater or planted layout who want black sand, an inert substrate formulation and a smooth surface for aquatic animals. It is also intended for terrarium and paludarium setups, including habitats for bettas, shrimp, fish, jumping spiders and turtles. Its 8 L quantity and fine black sand provide a defined substrate option across the listed habitat types.

Read our guide: Aquascaping a freshwater tank: substrate, stone, wood and light