Will this break down into mush after a year or two like other planted tank substrates?

I have multiple tanks where I've used potting soil that have been up 2 years. I've never used ferts either. Skip this junk and go true soil.

how long does it take for it to buffer the pH in the tank?

I purchased Fluval Stratum from a local pet store, who recommended it because of my tap water's parameters: 7.8 PH, 150 GH, and 180 KH. I added this substrate to my new tank in the evening. The next morning my PH was 6.2, maybe even lower. My test strips only go down to 6.2 PH. My GH 0, and KH 0. I have been testing the water for the past week and PH is 6.8 one day and back down to 6.2 the next. GH bounces between 0 and 25, and KH bounces between 0 and 40. I did an 80% water change two evenings ago but the next day, the water dropped back down to PH 6.2, GH 0, KH 0. This substrate was so expensive, that I hesitate to remove it and start over, but I will if water changes don't remedy the situation. Glad my fish are still in my old tank or they would probably be dead. My situation seems drastically different from other people's experience. If you purchase Fluval Stratum, I would put it in a bucket with some of your water and test it for a few days, before putting it in your tank and getting your tank all set up and planted.

I have a hard time keeping shrimp, will this help?

It's a good substrate for shrimp

Will hard decorations or rocks on top of this substrate crush it?

Not at all with my experience its the best substrate I ever use my plants look so healthy when I used it I definitely recommend it

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Fluval 12695 Plant and Shrimp Stratum for Freshwater Fish Tanks, 17.6 lbs. – Aquarium Substrate for Strong Plant Growth, Supports Neutral to Slightly Acidic pH

Product ID: 20009236

Details

Brand
Fluval
Item Form
Granules
Item Weight
8.07 Kilograms
Manufacturer
Rolf C. Hagen
Unit Count
281.6 Ounce

🌱17.6 lbs premium plant substrate

🦐Shrimp-safe porous granules

⚖️Neutral to slightly acidic pH balance

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$156.64

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Description

🌿 Elevate your aquarium game with Fluval Stratum – where plants thrive and shrimp survive!

P H PERFECTED - Maintains ideal neutral to slightly acidic environment tailored for plants, shrimp, and tropical fish.
SHRIMP SANCTUARY - Provides newborn shrimp a safe refuge from predators until they thrive.
MICROBIAL POWERHOUSE - Porous structure accelerates beneficial bacteria colonization for crystal-clear water.
WATER CLARITY CHAMPION - Prevents discoloration even with natural driftwood décor, keeping your tank pristine.
ROOT FRIENDLY NUTRIENT BOOST - Enables effortless root penetration for lush, vibrant aquatic plants.

Fluval 12695 Plant and Shrimp Stratum is a 17.6 lb premium freshwater aquarium substrate designed to promote robust plant growth and support a healthy aquatic ecosystem. Its porous granules foster rapid colonization of beneficial nitrifying bacteria, maintain a neutral to slightly acidic pH ideal for plants, tropical fish, and shrimp, and provide a safe haven for newborn shrimp. Engineered to prevent water discoloration, it ensures crystal-clear water even with natural driftwood décor, making it the top choice substrate for planted aquariums.

Specifications

ASIN	B00JMA9S52
ASIN	B00JMA9S52
Allergen Information	Nut Free
Best Sellers Rank	#587 in Pet Supplies ( See Top 100 in Pet Supplies ) #1 in Aquarium Substrate
Brand Name	Fluval
Customer Reviews	4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars (17,762)
Date First Available	July 18, 2014
Global Trade Identification Number	00015561126953
Included Components	All Items listed in Description
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer	No
Item Form	Granules
Item Type Name	HAGEN PLANT&SHRIMP STRATUM 8KG
Item Weight	8.07 Kilograms
Item model number	12695
Manufacturer	Rolf C. Hagen (USA) Corp.
Manufacturer	Rolf C. Hagen (USA) Corp.
Manufacturer Part Number	12695
Manufacturer recommended age	1 month and up
Model Number	12695
Pet Type	Fish
Product Dimensions	4.5 x 12 x 19 inches; 17.8 Pounds
Target Species	Shrimp
UPC	015561126953
Unit Count	281.6 Ounce
Warranty Description	Manufacturer warranty.

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