UNS Cosmetic Sands

Ultum Nature Systems Controsand is a line of natural cosmetic substrates for freshwater aquariums and terrariums. Bora, Maui and Mojave are extra-fine sands (0.4–0.9 mm); Kona, Santa Fe and Tahoe are rounded pebble gravels (3–5 mm). All six come in 3 litre and 8 litre bags and are safe for fish, invertebrates and reptiles.

UNS Controsand Bora Extra-Fine Sand

Extra-fine natural sand in light beige tones that sets off vibrant plants, tropical livestock and darker stone and wood.

2 volumes Extra Fine 0.4–0.9 mm View details

UNS Controsand Kona Pebble Gravel

Rounded 3–5 mm pebble gravel in deep charcoal tones, used as a supporting accent or to create strong contrast.

2 volumes Pebble Gravel 3–5 mm View details

UNS Controsand Maui Extra-Fine Sand

Extra-fine natural sand in a cool grey palette that pairs with natural stone and gives subtle, understated contrast.

2 volumes Extra Fine 0.4–0.9 mm View details

UNS Controsand Mojave Extra-Fine Sand

Extra-fine natural sand in a mixture of warmer tan tones that complements Dragon Stone and driftwood.

2 volumes Extra Fine 0.4–0.9 mm View details

UNS Controsand Santa Fe Pebble Gravel

Rounded 3–5 mm pebble gravel in a rich mix of cool grey and earthy hues, inspired by natural riverbeds and streams.

2 volumes Pebble Gravel 3–5 mm View details

UNS Controsand Tahoe Pebble Gravel

Rounded 3–5 mm pebble gravel in a light, neutral palette that suits a wide range of aquascaping styles.

2 volumes Pebble Gravel 3–5 mm View details

UNS Cosmetic Sands: frequently asked questions

Will UNS Controsand alter water hardness (GH/KH) or pH?

Some shades will. UNS states on the packaging that Maui, Mojave, Santa Fe and Tahoe slightly raise GH (general hardness). Bora and Kona are not on that list. If you keep soft-water shrimp or fish, choose Bora or Kona, or test GH after adding the sand.

Which UNS Controsand is fine sand and which is gravel?

Bora, Maui and Mojave are extra-fine sands with a grain size of about 0.4–0.9 mm, suited to foregrounds and top layers. Kona, Santa Fe and Tahoe are rounded pebble gravels of about 3–5 mm, used as accents or on their own.

How should I clean UNS Controsand before adding it to the scape?

Rinse Controsand gently in a bucket of water before placing it, to remove the finer grains and dust produced in transit. Controsoil is the opposite: it goes into the tank unrinsed.

How much Controsand do I need for my aquarium?

UNS recommends a 3 litre bag for an aquarium of about 35 litres, such as the UNS 45U, and an 8 litre bag for an aquarium of about 75 litres, such as the UNS 60U. Use less if the sand only covers a path or foreground.

Can I combine Controsand with Controsoil?

Yes. UNS designed Controsand to be used with Controsoil: soil in the planted zones behind the hardscape, and Controsand in open foregrounds and paths for contrast. The different Controsand shades can also be mixed for a custom look.

Officially available in South Africa

Stocked & supported by Jungle Aquatics

South Africa's premier aquatic and exotic pet destination since 2007 — with the Ultum Nature Systems range on display and available for collection in Fourways, plus expert scape consultations at the counter.

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