Terminalia Catappa

Problems of breeding solved

By Sid Adam

Terminalia Catappa, is a plant commonly known as: Indian Almond, Tropical Almond, Wild Almond, etc. and belongs to the family Combretaceae.  The plant is of ethnobotanical interest and research suggests that it may be useful in many areas of medicine e.g.: as an anti-sickling agent for those that suffer from sickle cell; as an aid to lowering high blood pressure and stress; as a treatment for some forms of liver disorders; as an aid in reducing the effect of several heart conditions . . . and so on.

In Asia it has long been known that the leaves of T. Catappa contain a toxic, secondary metabolite, which has antibacterial properties. The dried leaves have been used as an aid in the breeding and keeping of some sensitive fish species – at a dosage of one leaf per 15 gallons of water.

I recently started using these leaves in my own breeding tanks and I was quite surprised at the difference they made to the overall behaviour and health of the fish.  In one tank I have a pair of cobalt discus that were continually plagued by ‘white eggs’; since using the leaves, the eggs are now hatching normally.  Personally, I find them excellent value for money – If you have a pair of fish, and you are finding it hard to get them into breeding condition I suggest you give theses leaves ago.

I purchased mine from S&D PUNCHARD DISCUS on  (+44) (0)1200 427468 or online from www.puncharddiscus.co.uk 

Tell them Sid sent you.