Extra Large Ourico Mayan Nut Pods

Create a truly authentic South American blackwater aquarium with Castle Dawn Aquatics Mayan Nut Pods, sustainably sourced from the Bertholletia excelsa tree, part of the Brazil nut family. These thick, woody pods closely resemble the fallen forest debris found throughout Amazonian waterways, making them a staple botanical for serious blackwater and biotope aquascapers.

Their durable structure makes them ideal hiding spots and breeding caves for Apistogramma, wild Betta species, Plecos, and shrimp. In terrariums and paludariums, Mayan Nut Pods double as natural water pools for frogs and vampire crabs, offering exceptional versatility across aquatic and bioactive setups.

Tannins Released: High

All our botanicals are organically sourced, free from harmful pesticides, and naturally sun-dried without the use of chemicals.

Key Features and Important Notes:

• What’s Included:
  – 1 × Mayan Nut Pod
  ⚠️ For aquarium use only, not for human consumption.
• Average Size:
  10–20 cm (3.9–7.9 inches)
• Source:
  Brazil
• Flora:
  Bertholletia excelsa
• Durable and Long-Lasting:
  Extremely hard, thick-walled pod that can last for years in aquatic or humid environments, often referred to as an “everlasting botanical”.
• Perfect for Blackwater Aquariums:
  Creates secure refuges and natural spawning sites for dwarf cichlids, mouthbrooding Betta species, shrimp, and bottom-dwelling fish.
• Biofilm and Microfauna Support:
  Encourages the growth of beneficial biofilm and fungi, providing a natural grazing surface for shrimp, Plecos, and Otocinclus.
• Terrarium and Paludarium Use:
  Ideal as a natural water dish or microhabitat for frogs, vampire crabs, and small reptiles, adding depth and realism to rainforest-style enclosures.
• Tannin Enrichment:
  Releases rich, dark tannins that help soften water, lower pH naturally, and promote stable blackwater conditions.
• Preparation:
  Boil for 30 minutes, then soak overnight before use. For smaller aquariums, ensure any residual nut material is fully cleaned out.
• Organic and Safe:
  Organically sourced, naturally sun-dried, and completely free from pesticides, ethanol, or synthetic chemicals.
• Natural Variation:
  As a natural product, colour, texture, and shape will vary slightly between pods.
• Conservation Support:
  Part of the Wild Betta Rescue Programme. Every purchase helps support ongoing Betta conservation work across Southeast Asia.