Black Slate is a classic sedimentary rock prized for its clean, layered form and natural elegance. Formed over decades of geological shaping, its flat, dark slabs make it ideal for stacked aquascapes, terrarium backdrops, and Zen-inspired layouts. With its smooth planes and subtle texturing, Black Slate brings both structure and simplicity to aquariums, offering aquascapers a versatile stone that blends naturally with plants and hardscape features.
Quick Guide
Essentials
Features
Preparation
Quick Guide
Origin: Northern 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: Stacked layers, Zen aquascapes, terrarium backdrops
Placement: Foreground slabs, midground layers, or as a flat foundation
Special Features: Smooth surfaces, stackable form, inert and shrimp safe
Essentials
Water: Completely inert; safe for all freshwater aquariums
Tank Size: Suitable for nano tanks through large aquascapes, adaptable by slab size
Substrate Pairing: Works beautifully with sand, soil, or fine gravel bases
Design Tip: Stack at angles to mimic natural cliffs or terraces
Features
Appearance: Flat sedimentary stone with clean edges
Color: Deep black to dark gray with subtle mineral sheen
Texture: Smooth planes with occasional fine lines
Impact: Adds structure, minimalism, and balance to aquascapes
Preparation
Preparation: Rinse thoroughly before use to remove dust and loose fragments
Placement: Avoid excessive stacking; ensure stability to prevent collapse
Maintenance: Fully inert and stable; may collect algae on smooth surfaces in bright lighting
Special Tips: Ideal for stacked Zen layouts or as a stable base for driftwood and plants
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.
