Mere Substrate – Delta-Inspired Riverbed for Natural Aquascapes

Bring the spirit of Africa’s great deltas into your aquarium with Mere, a richly textured, natural substrate inspired by the sediment-laden basins of the Pool Malebo in the Congo River. Featuring a warm mix of yellow-ochre sands, gravels, and twigs, Mere adds an organic, dynamic feel to any aquatic or terrestrial display—perfect for recreating habitats shaped by floodplains, lagoons, and lake deltas.

Description

Mere captures the complex layering of materials found in tropical delta ecosystems. As rivers slow and meander through lush floodplains, they deposit a mosaic of sand, gravel, and organic matter that forms a biologically rich riverbed—teeming with life and color. This substrate recreates that environment with a carefully balanced mix of natural materials, evoking the warm, earthy tones and textures of real river deltas.

Whether you're building a biotope aquarium, a nature-style aquascape, or a richly detailed terrarium, Mere provides an easy-to-use, visually stunning foundation that looks like it was shaped by nature itself.

Key Features

• Inspired by delta basins like Pool Malebo (Congo River, Africa)

• Natural mix of yellow-ochre sands, gravels, and twigs

• Creates a rich, warm, and highly organic impression

• Ideal for delta, lake, floodplain, and lagoon habitats

• Arbitrary grain and material mix for a realistic riverbed effect

• 100% natural and non-toxic materials

• Easy to apply—no special tools or skills required

Characteristics

• Color: Warm yellow-ochre tones

• Grain Size: Mixed sizes from 0.1 cm up to 40 cm

• Composition: Sands, gravels, and twigs (100% natural)

• Water Chemistry: May slightly affect hardness

• Packaging: Available in 2 kg & 5 kg bags

• Safe for: Fish, shrimp, amphibians, and aquatic plants

Usage Guidelines

• Ready to Use: Pre-washed and safe for direct use—no rinsing needed

• Placement: Distribute directly over the base of your aquarium or terrarium

• Natural Flow: Random distribution within the bag creates a naturally varied riverbed appearance

• Combine Freely: Works beautifully as a standalone riverbed or blended with other substrates like Riverbeds, Artist Sands, or cosmetic gravels

• Maintenance: Gently skim the surface with a net to remove any floating particles

• Versatile: Suitable for all experience levels—from beginners to professional aquascapers

Design Tip

For extra realism, combine Mere with driftwood and leaf litter to replicate tropical floodplain habitats. Its ochre tones enhance green plant contrast and highlight bottom-dwelling species like cichlids and catfish.