Black River Slate is admired for its smooth surfaces and layered, sedimentary form, shaped naturally by erosion over time. Its dark coloration and flat structure make it a versatile aquascaping stone, especially suited for flat scapes, Zen-inspired layouts, and minimalist designs. With its clean lines and understated presence, Black River Slate adds balance and subtle elegance to aquariums, creating a calm backdrop that highlights plants and other hardscape elements.
Quick Guide
Essentials
Features
Preparation
Quick Guide
Origin: Bangladesh – sedimentary slate
Water Chemistry Impact: Inert and stable; does not affect pH or hardness (KH & GH)
Compatibility: Great for planted tanks; safe for shrimp, snails, and small fish
Restrictions: Avoid excessive stacking or creating pressure points
Aquascape Style: Flat scapes, minimal drama, Zen compositions
Placement: Foreground or midground slabs, layered formations, or flat bases
Special Features: Smooth surface, flat structure, inert properties, shrimp safe
Essentials
Water: Completely inert; safe for all freshwater aquariums
Tank Size: Works well in nano tanks and larger displays due to stackable flat shapes
Substrate Pairing: Contrasts with sand or gravel; blends seamlessly with planted substrates
Design Tip: Use layered arrangements to mimic natural rock shelves or riverbeds
Features
Appearance: Flat, layered slate with smooth planes
Color: Deep black to dark gray
Texture: Smooth, slightly layered with fine edges
Impact: Adds calmness, structure, and minimalism to aquascapes
Preparation
Preparation: Rinse thoroughly before use to remove dust and loose particles
Placement: Avoid excessive stacking or unstable pressure points that may shift
Maintenance: Inert and stable; may develop algae in bright tanks over time
Special Tips: Ideal for creating Zen gardens, riverbeds, or as a flat base for other hardscape
We ship orders within the contiguous United States. Ready-to-ship orders are processed within 1-3 business days. Please email us regarding the processing time on custom orders.
