Product Description: Tamarind Leaf Litter (Tamarindus indica) is the smallest species of leaf we offer at Betta Botanicals—and we haven’t seen it available anywhere else! Its finely textured, delicate composition adds a soft yellow tint to botanical method aquariums, making it a standout choice for small aquariums. Perfect for shrimp and other botanical-loving species, Tamarind Leaf Litter can serve as the primary leaf litter in small ecosystems or as a subtle accent in larger setups, enhancing the natural aesthetic. We call it leaf litter, as small pieces of grass and the stem where the tamarind fruit detaches from are included with these leaves. Care should be taken to provide a longer than normal soak as their small size enables them to be blown about the aquarium by the softest water current - the ones in the photo below were soaked for 48 hours after following the preparation instructions.

In botanical method aquariums, Tamarind leaves release mild tannins, adding a gentle, golden hue to the water. Their small size and fine structure are ideal for fostering biofilm development, providing grazing surfaces for microfauna, and creating a haven for rasping fish. In bioactive enclosures, these leaves offer a nutrient-rich food source for isopods, springtails, and other clean-up crew members, contributing to a thriving ecosystem.

Tamarind (Tamarindus indica) is a long-lived, medium-growth tree native to tropical Africa but widely cultivated in Asia, the Americas, and other tropical regions. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and is the sole species in the genus Tamarindus, making it monotypic. Tamarind trees thrive in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, and are highly drought-tolerant. They prefer full sun and are resistant to salt aerosols, which makes them suitable for coastal environments.

The tree can reach up to 25 meters (80 feet) in height, with a dense, vase-shaped canopy of evergreen, pinnately compound leaves. These leaves are bright green and close up at night. The tree produces small, red-and-yellow flowers and pod-like fruits containing a tangy, sweet pulp. The pods are hard-shelled and can range from 12 to 15 centimeters (4.5 to 6 inches) in length, housing glossy brown seeds.

Tamarind trees are frost-sensitive and have been extensively naturalized in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide due to their culinary, medicinal, and ornamental uses. They are cultivated for their fruits, which are rich in nutrients, and their durable hardwood, which is prized in woodworking.

This bag and its contents are biodegradable! Did you know our product packaging is made from renewable and sustainable sugarcane? So just like the botanicals inside, it will compost when returned to nature.

Not for Human Consumption. Preparation Required. 

Quantities: ~25 grams of Tamarind indica leaf litter. Sizes range. This is a natural product, and variation between leaves and botanicals is expected.

Aquarium Botanical Location: Sri Lanka.

Aquarium Botanical FAQs 

1. Please reference our Shipping and Hassle-Free Return Policy at the bottom of the screen. All Products are packaged inside sustainably sourced and renewable sugar cane fibers allowing them to be fully biodegradable and compostable. Yes, you can bury these bags in your backyard to enrich your soils. 
2. Please refer to our botanical preparation instructions. These Botanicals are grown and harvested in pesticide-free environments and it is recommended to use 2-3 botanical pieces per 5 gallons to start, wait 5-7 days, or for the next water exchange to then add more.
3. Our aquarium and vivarium botanicals, leaves, and seed pods are not for human consumption, ever.
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Commonly Asked Questions:

 

1) Will Botanicals Lower The pH Of My Water?

It entirely depends on your water's chemistry. Soft water will allow the botanicals to lower your pH more than if you have medium or hard water. At Betta Botanicals HQ our tap water is Very Hard, ( 350+ppm) and we do not notice a change in water pH unless using Alder Cones or Macaranga Leaves.

2) What Are The Fluffy White Growth On My Botanicals?

White growths are the colonization of biofilms and fungi. We call this the 'goo phase' and it is totally natural. Botanicals are fuel for the ecosystem and the populations of bacteria and fungi will naturally rise and fall. 

3) I Don't Keep Bettas. Will These Botanicals Be Okay For My Critters?

100% yes. Our botanicals are for aquariums, terrariums, vivariums, and all natural enclosures wishing to recreate a more natural environment.

4) I Have Goldfish and Axolotls, What Botanicals Should I Avoid?

We DO NOT recommend using botanicals that these fish can ingest. Botanicals like casuarina cones, small alder cones, and live oak are not suited for these animals. Large aquarium leaves like Indian almond, loquat, and jackfruit leaf litter are preferred. 

5) When Should I Replace My Aquarium Leaves?

We recommend letting aquarium leaves and seed pods entirely break down into beneficial detritus. You can absolutely remove them after they don’t release tannins anymore, you just won't get all potential benefits of leaving them in the ecosystem.