LCA Root Tabs (Slow Release) are made in Australia by Liverpool Creek Aquariums. They feed nutrients into the substrate, where root-feeding plants need them.
Liquid fertilisers work well in the water column, but plants that feed from the substrate can starve in inert sand or gravel. That can lead to weak roots, pale leaves, and stalled growth. These slow-release capsules put macros and micros into the root zone so nutrients stay in the bed instead of dissolving into the water, where they can feed algae.
Key features
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Root feeding: Suited to heavy root feeders such as Cryptocoryne, Echinodorus (Amazon swords), Vallisneria, Aponogeton, and stem plants.
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Slow release: Capsules dissolve in the gravel and feed the substrate over time, with less leaching into the water column.
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Inert substrates: Adds nutrients to plain sand or gravel so it can support plant growth.
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Use with liquids: Pairs with LCA liquid fertilisers to cover both root-feeding and water-column plants.
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Livestock safe: Suitable for fish, ornamental shrimp, and snails when used as directed.
Water and system compatibility
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Water: Freshwater aquariums only. Not for marine or reef tanks.
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Substrate: Best in plain gravel or sand, or to refresh older, depleted aquasoil.
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Lifespan: Each tab releases nutrients for about 6–8 weeks before it needs replacing.
Dosing and placement
Always follow dosage & directions on product packaging.
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Under plants: Use aquascaping tweezers to press one capsule midway into the gravel, under or beside each heavy root-feeding plant.
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Whole bed: To enrich a larger area, bury one capsule every 10–15 cm in a grid.
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Depth: Bury capsules fully so they cannot float or sit on the surface. If they dissolve in open water, nutrients will leach into the water column.
Specifications
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Brand: Liverpool Creek Aquariums
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Pack size: 20 capsules (also available in 50 and 100 packs)
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Nutrient: Slow-release substrate fertiliser (macro and micro)
