The UNS Substrate System combines planted aquarium substrates designed to create a reliable aquascape foundation and support healthy aquatic plant growth. This bundled system pairs UNS Controsoil, UNS Controsand, and UNS Controbase together in one streamlined setup for planted aquariums.

The rich brown tone of Controsoil creates a softer, more earthy appearance compared to traditional black aquasoils and pairs especially well with warm-toned hardscape and nature-style layouts. Choose between select UNS Controsand options to customize the final look of your aquarium while maintaining a clean, functional substrate system beneath the surface.

Configure Your System

Choose Your Sand
Select from Mojave or Pacifica to complement the look of your aquascape. Mojave offers a warmer, natural sand tone, while Pacifica creates bold contrast against vibrant aquatic plants.

Choose Your Soil Granule Size
- Extra Fine: Ideal for carpeting plants, nano tanks and detailed layouts
- Fine: All-purpose and balanced for most planted aquariums
- Normal: Larger granules are best for large tanks and plants such as Echinodorus or Vallisneria

How It Works
A complete layered blend! This substrate system is designed to be used in three layers:

1. Controbase (Bottom Layer)
Provides essential nutrients to support root development and long-term plant health and consistent growth.
2. Controsoil (Middle Layer)
Buffers water parameters while supplying an ideal base for aquatic plants to absorb nutrients and establish groups.
3. Controsand (Top Layer / Decorative)
Adds texture and contrast to the layout. Separates planted and open areas within the aquascape.

What’s Included
- 1x 10L UNS Controsoil Brown (granule size varies by selection)
- 1x 8L UNS Controsand (type varies by selection)
- 1x 2L UNS Controbase

This system simplifies substrate selection by combining compatible materials into a single, proven setup. It supports healthy plant growth while giving you flexibility to customize the aesthetic of your final layout.

Best For
- Planted aquariums with defined foreground and background zones
- Aquascapes that combine sand paths with planted areas
- Hobbyists looking for a balanced and reliable substrate foundation for planted aquariums

Important Information: We recommend rinsing Controsand before use. Do not rinse Controsoil or Controbase! This substrate system is designed for freshwater planted aquariums.