The UNS Substrate System is a complete, layered foundation designed to support healthy plant growth while creating a clean, natural aquascape layout. Combining nutrient-rich Controbase, buffering Controsoil, and decorative Controsand, this system brings together the essential components needed for a balanced planted aquarium.

This configuration features UNS Controsoil (Black), offering strong contrast and depth that enhances plant color and hardscape detail. Paired with your choice of Controsand and preferred soil granule size, the system is available in several combinations to suit both the visual style and planting needs of your aquascape.

Configure Your System

Choose Your Sand / Gravel Style
- Bora: Light, neutral, fine-grain sand that creates strong contrast
- Maui: Black, fine-grain sand that pairs well with darker themed aquascapes
- Monterey: Chunkier, neutral gravel. Balanced and versatile
- Santa Fe: Earthy-toned pebble-like gravel that’s great for riverbed or shallow water edge-inspired layouts

Choose Your Soil Granule Size
- Extra Fine: Ideal for carpeting plants and detailed layouts
- Fine: All-purpose and accommodates most aquatic plants
- Normal: Larger granule best for large species such as Echinodorus or Vallisneria

How It Works
A complete layered blend! This substrate system is designed to be used in three layers:

1. Controbase (Bottom Layer)
Provides essential nutrients to support root development and long-term plant health and consistent growth.
2. Controsoil (Middle Layer)
Buffers water parameters while supplying an ideal base for aquatic plants to absorb nutrients and establish groups.
3. Controsand (Top Layer / Decorative)
Adds texture and contrast to the layout. Separates planted and open areas within the aquascape.

What’s Included
- 1x 10L UNS Controsoil Black (granule size varies by selection)
- 1x 8L UNS Controsand (type varies by selection)
- 1x 2L UNS Controbase

This system simplifies substrate selection by combining compatible materials into a single, proven setup. It supports strong plant growth while giving you flexibility to shape the visual layout of your aquarium using sand and soil contrast.

Best For
- Planted aquariums with defined foreground and background zones
- Aquascapes that combine sand paths with planted areas
- Hobbyists looking for a balanced and reliable substrate foundation for planted aquariums

Important Information: We recommend rinsing Controsand before use. Do not rinse Controsoil or Controbase! This substrate system is designed for freshwater planted aquariums.