Alder cones are known for their amazing antibacterial and anti-fungal properties as well as helping to lower the pH when added to aquariums. They support a natural environment by providing tannins which are conducive to the ecosystem as well as releasing humic acids which are crucial to shrimps health.
Alder cones come from the Alnus glutinosa tree, also known as the black alder tree. These trees were introduced to the United States and Canada from Europe.