Aquarium Safe Wood

Aquarium wood, also called driftwood or bogwood, is one of the easiest ways to bring a natural look to an aquascape. It gives fish and shrimp somewhere to shelter, gives epiphyte plants like Java Fern and Anubias something to attach to, and as it settles in it releases tannins that soft water and blackwater species genuinely benefit from. We stock a wide range of types, including Redmoor, Mopani, Cholla, Sava, and Sinknature bogwood, so whether you want one large centrepiece or a few smaller branches to build up a layout, there's something here to suit most tank sizes.

Most wood will tint the water a tea colour for the first few weeks as tannins leach out, this is harmless and fades over time, though a few pieces may need soaking or weighing down before they'll stay submerged. If you're adding wood to a tank for the first time, smaller pieces like Cholla or Azalea root are a low-risk starting point, while larger Mopani or Redmoor pieces work well as the main focal point in a bigger aquascape.

Aquarium Wood

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Choosing the Right Piece

Every piece of aquarium wood is unique, no two branches, roots, or root balls look exactly the same, so it's worth picturing where it'll sit before you buy. Smaller tanks generally suit a single branch or a small cluster of Cholla or Azalea root, while larger aquascapes can carry a full Mopani or Redmoor centrepiece with room to plant around it. If you're attaching plants, look for a piece with some flat or textured surface, that's where Java Fern, Anubias, or moss will hold on best.

Frequently Asked Questions

New wood almost always floats at first, this is normal. Soak it in a bucket of water or attach it to a rock or wood-safe weight until it becomes waterlogged and stays down on its own, usually a few days to a couple of weeks depending on the piece.


Yes, most aquarium wood is naturally acidic and will lower pH slightly over time as it releases tannins. This is generally beneficial for soft water fish like tetras and Bettas, but worth knowing if you're keeping species that prefer harder, more alkaline water.

You don't need to, though a rinse under tap water to remove loose dirt or debris is a good idea before adding it to the tank. Soaking can help waterlogged pieces sink faster and reduces tannin release if you'd rather keep the water clear.


Yes, it's often recommended for them. It provides grazing surface for biofilm, a natural food source shrimp pick at constantly, as well as places to hide and moult.