Castle Dawn Aquatics

Bael Tree Pods ( 6 Pack)

Bael Tree Pods ( 6 Pack) - Main image
$12.59 $19.99 In stock

Category: Aquarium Aquatic Aquascaping Botanicals

Bring a touch of tropical authenticity to your aquarium with Bael Tree Pods, also known as Stone Apples. Harvested from the Aegle marmelos tree, these durable, hollow fruit shells replicate the natural seed pods and debris that fall into blackwater streams across Asia and other tropical regions.

These pods are ideal for blackwater aquariums and biotope setups, providing excellent hiding spots and natural spawning caves for dwarf cichlids, wild Betta species, plecos, and shrimp. Their solid structure also makes them a popular choice for bioactive and amphibian enclosures, where they can be used as natural water wells for frogs such as Pacman toads and tree frogs.

All Castle Dawn Aquatics botanicals are organically sourced and naturally sun-dried without the use of chemicals.

Tannins Released: Medium

Key Features and Important Notes:

  • What’s Included:
    – 6 × Bael Tree Pod (Stone Apple Shell)
    ⚠️ For aquarium use only – not for human consumption.
  • Average Size:
    Approx. 9–12 cm (3.5–4.7 inches)
  • Source:
    Sri Lanka
  • Flora:
    Aegle marmelos
  • Durable & Long-Lasting:
    Extremely hard and woody structure that lasts for years in aquariums or humid bioactive enclosures.
  • Natural Hiding & Breeding Pods:
    Ideal spawning and shelter structures for dwarf cichlids, wild Bettas, and bottom-dwelling fish.
  • Biofilm Growth:
    Promotes rich biofilm and fungal layers, providing a natural grazing surface for shrimp and Plecos.
  • Dual Use – Aquatic & Terrestrial:
    Excellent natural water wells for amphibians such as Pacman frogs, dart frogs, and tree frogs.
  • Tannin Enrichment:
    Gradually releases medium levels of tannins, tinting the water a warm amber while maintaining a natural soft-water balance.
  • Preparation:
    Boil for 60 minutes and soak overnight before use. Remove any residual fruit pulp, especially for aquariums under 40 L.
  • Organic & Safe:
    All botanicals are organically sourced, naturally sun-dried, and 100% free from pesticides or chemicals.
  • Natural Variation:
    As a natural product, colour, texture, and size will vary between pods.
  • Conservation Support:
    Part of the Wild Betta Rescue Programme – every purchase supports Betta conservation throughout Southeast Asia.

Customer Reviews (4.8 / 5 · 5 reviews)

Steven O. ★★★★★

Dropped a couple of these into my betta tank and the hollow shells instantly gave him a little cave to hide in. Six pods is plenty for a 20-gallon, and they sink right away without any soaking. Two weeks in and no softening or weird film on the water.

Eli F. ★★★★★

These pods have held up beautifully in my tank for weeks now, and the hollow shape gives my shrimp the perfect hiding nooks. The water tinted a lovely tan that makes my tetras’ colors pop, and scooping out floating bits is easy since they don’t break apart.

Stella V. ★★★★★

The hollow shells are sturdier than I expected, so they should last a long time breaking down in my aquascape. They give the tank that natural tropical leaf-litter look I was after, and my corydoras are already nudging them around the substrate.