Black Lava – Ultum Nature Systems

Black Lava

May 21, 2024

A porous hardscape, ideal for aquarium setups, especially planted tanks. It’s great for attaching plants, promoting beneficial bacteria growth, and adding character to your aquascape.

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Take a deeper look into the full hardscape process as Parker and John build out two distinct terrarium layouts from start to finish in the 25TM and 30TM Prism tanks. You’ll see how each decision shapes the final layout, from hardscape placement to fine-tuning flow, balance, and negative space. The UNS 25TM leans into bold contrast with Red Petrified Stone and Controsand Morocco sand, creating a striking foundation with rich red tones. Meanwhile, the UNS 30TM Prism takes a more grounded approach, with Parker working around the natural character of Grape Wood, paired with aquarium gravels like Controsand Kona and Sequoia for a warmer, earthier feel. Whether you're planning your own desk terrarium build or just looking for planted tank inspiration, this is a complete look at how two different directions can come to life from the ground up. Click here to learn more: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/prism/ Become an Ultum Nature Systems retailer: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/wholesale-inquiries/ Follow us on social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultumnaturesystems/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ultumnaturesystems/

Take a deeper look into the full hardscape process as Parker and John build out two distinct terrarium layouts from start to finish in the 25TM and 30TM Prism tanks.

You’ll see how each decision shapes the final layout, from hardscape placement to fine-tuning flow, balance, and negative space. The UNS 25TM leans into bold contrast with Red Petrified Stone and Controsand Morocco sand, creating a striking foundation with rich red tones. Meanwhile, the UNS 30TM Prism takes a more grounded approach, with Parker working around the natural character of Grape Wood, paired with aquarium gravels like Controsand Kona and Sequoia for a warmer, earthier feel.

Whether you're planning your own desk terrarium build or just looking for planted tank inspiration, this is a complete look at how two different directions can come to life from the ground up.

Click here to learn more: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/prism/
Become an Ultum Nature Systems retailer: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/wholesale-inquiries/

Follow us on social:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultumnaturesystems/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ultumnaturesystems/

YouTube Video VVVUM3N2MGdQUG01SzRiRkx0YktLUExnLkNtcHdNS2ZfTWhV

Terrarium Hardscape Build in a UNS 25TM & 30TM Prism

In this video, we walk through how to use UNS Controlock + Bond to secure your aquarium hardscape with confidence. From choosing the right color to match your planted tank layout to proper application techniques that keep everything exactly where you want it, we cover it all while keeping the safety of your fish tank in mind. Whether you’re working with stone, wood, or a mix of both, this aquarium-safe bonding material and glue make it easier to create stable, long-lasting structures without compromising the look of your aquascape. You’ll learn how to use UNS Controlock + Bond for fast, clean adhesion, how to glue aquarium hardscape for added strength, & a breakdown of available colors and how to choose the right one. Click here to learn more: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/controlock-controbond/ Become an Ultum Nature Systems retailer: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/wholesale-inquiries/ Follow us on social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultumnaturesystems/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ultumnaturesystems/

This video is private.

YouTube Video VVVUM3N2MGdQUG01SzRiRkx0YktLUExnLmFEUDZfNEFUOUY4

How to Use UNS Controlock + Bond

Upgrade your CO2 setup with the UNS Pro Inline CO2 Diffuser. In this video, John walks through how to install the 12mm (½ inch) UNS Pro Inline CO2 Diffuser on a UNS Delta 90 Canister Filter, along with upgrading to more flexible UNS Pro Filter Tubing. Gain tips on installation techniques, how to protect your setup with a check valve, safe tubing removal and replacement, and the correct placement and orientation for optimal performance. Click here to learn more: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/co2/ Become an Ultum Nature Systems retailer: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/wholesale-inquiries/ Follow us on social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultumnaturesystems/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ultumnaturesystems/

This video is private.

YouTube Video VVVUM3N2MGdQUG01SzRiRkx0YktLUExnLnBzU0RyTzlTMmtF

UNS Pro Inline CO2 Diffuser: Setup & Installation

In this paludarium setup, Parker is planting a UNS 60S pond-inspired tank, combining terrestrial and aquatic plants for a natural, visually striking layout. Learn techniques for emersed plants like wrapping moss on driftwood, creating smooth transitions between terrestrial and aquatic zones, and strategically placing detail plants to enhance your aquarium hardscape layout. The setup features a UNS Delta 60 canister filter with lily pipes, an atomizer for humidity, and a UNS Pro 60 Hanging Bar with ONF lights to support both emersed and submersed plant growth. Step by step, Parker shows how to integrate hardscape, moss, and plants for a cohesive, healthy shallow pond aquarium. Perfect for hobbyists and aquascaping enthusiasts, this video offers practical tips on plant selection, emersed vs. submersed plantgrowth, and designing a balanced, dynamic planted tank. Click here to learn more: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/aquatic-plants/ Become an Ultum Nature Systems retailer: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/wholesale-inquiries/ Follow us on social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultumnaturesystems/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ultumnaturesystems/

In this paludarium setup, Parker is planting a UNS 60S pond-inspired tank, combining terrestrial and aquatic plants for a natural, visually striking layout. Learn techniques for emersed plants like wrapping moss on driftwood, creating smooth transitions between terrestrial and aquatic zones, and strategically placing detail plants to enhance your aquarium hardscape layout.

The setup features a UNS Delta 60 canister filter with lily pipes, an atomizer for humidity, and a UNS Pro 60 Hanging Bar with ONF lights to support both emersed and submersed plant growth. Step by step, Parker shows how to integrate hardscape, moss, and plants for a cohesive, healthy shallow pond aquarium.

Perfect for hobbyists and aquascaping enthusiasts, this video offers practical tips on plant selection, emersed vs. submersed plantgrowth, and designing a balanced, dynamic planted tank.

Click here to learn more: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/aquatic-plants/
Become an Ultum Nature Systems retailer: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/wholesale-inquiries/

Follow us on social:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultumnaturesystems/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ultumnaturesystems/

YouTube Video VVVUM3N2MGdQUG01SzRiRkx0YktLUExnLk9adFZmNHkyNHJB

Planting a Shallow Pond Aquarium in a UNS 60S

Follow along as John and Parker take you step by step through the full hardscape process in a pair of UNS 60S rimless aquariums. In this build, they work with intentionally oversized pieces of aquarium driftwood like Sandblasted Manzanita Wood and Malaysian Driftwood, selecting branches that rise above the shallow profile of the tanks to break traditional boundaries and add vertical interest. You’ll see how they evaluate each piece, test different orientations, and fine-tune the composition to create balance, depth, and flow across both layouts. By choosing wood that extends beyond the aquarium’s rim, they open up creative possibilities for blending aquatic and terrestrial plants, pushing the aquascape design toward a paludarium-inspired look while still maintaining a strong aquascape foundation. Throughout the video, they share their thought process behind scale and wood placement, along with practical tips for securing hardscape and building a stable structure from the ground up. Whether you’re setting up your first shallow tank or looking to experiment with mixed-environment layouts, these hardscape layouts offer inspiration and insight into creating a truly one-of-a-kind scape. Click here to learn more: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/hardscape/ Become a retailer: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/wholesale-inquiries/ Follow us on social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultumnaturesystems/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ultumnaturesystems/

Follow along as John and Parker take you step by step through the full hardscape process in a pair of UNS 60S rimless aquariums. In this build, they work with intentionally oversized pieces of aquarium driftwood like Sandblasted Manzanita Wood and Malaysian Driftwood, selecting branches that rise above the shallow profile of the tanks to break traditional boundaries and add vertical interest.

You’ll see how they evaluate each piece, test different orientations, and fine-tune the composition to create balance, depth, and flow across both layouts. By choosing wood that extends beyond the aquarium’s rim, they open up creative possibilities for blending aquatic and terrestrial plants, pushing the aquascape design toward a paludarium-inspired look while still maintaining a strong aquascape foundation.

Throughout the video, they share their thought process behind scale and wood placement, along with practical tips for securing hardscape and building a stable structure from the ground up. Whether you’re setting up your first shallow tank or looking to experiment with mixed-environment layouts, these hardscape layouts offer inspiration and insight into creating a truly one-of-a-kind scape.

Click here to learn more: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/hardscape/
Become a retailer: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/wholesale-inquiries/

Follow us on social:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultumnaturesystems/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ultumnaturesystems/

YouTube Video VVVUM3N2MGdQUG01SzRiRkx0YktLUExnLldjN0g4S2hPVVdr

Shallow Aquarium Hardscape Setup ft. UNS 60S

Follow Logan Rando as he hits the show floor to hear what attendees at Aquashella LA 2025 really think. We talk to aquascapers, new aquascape hobbyists, and longtime followers to capture their first impressions of the Ultum Nature Systems booth. From opinions on UNS designs and materials to heartfelt stories about how the aquascaping hobby has shaped their lives, this episode is packed with genuine reactions and fresh perspectives. Whether you're curious about how the UNS brand resonates with the community or love hearing fellow hobbyists geek out over plants, scapes, and gear, you won’t want to miss this one. Thanks to everyone who shared their thoughts with us! Your passion fuels what we do. Learn more: Check out our site: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/ Find a retailer: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/find-a-retailer/ Wholesale inquiries: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/wholesale-inquiries/ Follow us on social! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultumnaturesystems/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ultumnaturesystems/

Follow Logan Rando as he hits the show floor to hear what attendees at Aquashella LA 2025 really think. We talk to aquascapers, new aquascape hobbyists, and longtime followers to capture their first impressions of the Ultum Nature Systems booth. From opinions on UNS designs and materials to heartfelt stories about how the aquascaping hobby has shaped their lives, this episode is packed with genuine reactions and fresh perspectives.

Whether you're curious about how the UNS brand resonates with the community or love hearing fellow hobbyists geek out over plants, scapes, and gear, you won’t want to miss this one. Thanks to everyone who shared their thoughts with us! Your passion fuels what we do.

Learn more:
Check out our site: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/
Find a retailer: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/find-a-retailer/
Wholesale inquiries: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/wholesale-inquiries/

Follow us on social!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultumnaturesystems/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ultumnaturesystems/

YouTube Video VVVUM3N2MGdQUG01SzRiRkx0YktLUExnLmktQWZEczVqaGdz

EP 2: Aquashella LA 2025 - UNS First Impressions Hosted by Logan Rando

Follow Logan Rando as he walks you through the highlights of the Ultum Nature Systems booth at Aquashella LA 2025. Get an exclusive look at the freshwater aquascapes, macroalgae tanks, terrariums, new products, and never-before-seen prototypes displayed at the event. Thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth! Learn more: Check out our site: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/ Find a retailer: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/find-a-retailer/ Wholesale inquiries: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/wholesale-inquiries/ Follow us on social! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultumnaturesystems/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ultumnaturesystems/

Follow Logan Rando as he walks you through the highlights of the Ultum Nature Systems booth at Aquashella LA 2025. Get an exclusive look at the freshwater aquascapes, macroalgae tanks, terrariums, new products, and never-before-seen prototypes displayed at the event. Thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth!

Learn more:
Check out our site: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/
Find a retailer: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/find-a-retailer/
Wholesale inquiries: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/wholesale-inquiries/

Follow us on social!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultumnaturesystems/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ultumnaturesystems/

YouTube Video VVVUM3N2MGdQUG01SzRiRkx0YktLUExnLnhDM0ZmTjNSdXdN

EP 1: Ultum Nature Systems at Aquashella LA 2025 - Hosted by Logan Rando

Dive in with Connor as he sets up his stunning saltwater aquarium using the brand-new UNS 45SA Dual All-In-One! This latest model is a refined version of the UNS 45A Peninsula, featuring a shallow, modern profile that’s perfect for unique aquascaping designs. In this video, Connor gives an overview of compatible reef accessories, sets up the tank, & demonstrates his MarcoRock layout to incorporate thriving mangroves and a variety of macroalgae. Whether you’re a seasoned reef keeper or just getting started with saltwater aquariums, this setup showcases how to combine natural elements and creative design for a beautiful, low-maintenance all-in-one saltwater tank. Click here to learn more: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/dual-all-in-one-aquarium/ Become a retailer: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/wholesale-inquiries/ Follow us on social: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultumnaturesystems/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ultumnaturesystems/

Dive in with Connor as he sets up his stunning saltwater aquarium using the brand-new UNS 45SA Dual All-In-One! This latest model is a refined version of the UNS 45A Peninsula, featuring a shallow, modern profile that’s perfect for unique aquascaping designs.

In this video, Connor gives an overview of compatible reef accessories, sets up the tank, & demonstrates his MarcoRock layout to incorporate thriving mangroves and a variety of macroalgae.

Whether you’re a seasoned reef keeper or just getting started with saltwater aquariums, this setup showcases how to combine natural elements and creative design for a beautiful, low-maintenance all-in-one saltwater tank.

Click here to learn more: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/dual-all-in-one-aquarium/
Become a retailer: https://ultumnaturesystems.com/wholesale-inquiries/

Follow us on social:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultumnaturesystems/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ultumnaturesystems/

YouTube Video VVVUM3N2MGdQUG01SzRiRkx0YktLUExnLjBPT3Y0MzJuSDVV

UNS 45SA Dual All-In-One Shallow Saltwater Aquarium Setup

Follow along as John and Parker complete their aquarium hardscape setup in a pair of UNS 60 shallow aquarium tanks. They’ve chosen Sandblasted Manzanita Wood and Malaysian Driftwood pieces intentionally taller than the shallow aquariums. This approach opens the door for both aquatic and terrestrial plants while creating a one-of-a-kind hardscape layout.

Follow along as John and Parker complete their aquarium hardscape setup in a pair of UNS 60 shallow aquarium tanks. They’ve chosen Sandblasted Manzanita Wood and Malaysian Driftwood pieces intentionally taller than the shallow aquariums. This approach opens the door for both aquatic and terrestrial plants while creating a one-of-a-kind hardscape layout.

YouTube Video VVVUM3N2MGdQUG01SzRiRkx0YktLUExnLmtlVEY4NERxNmdr

UNS 60 Shallow Aquarium Hardscape Setup

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