Wood
Mopani Wood
Also called African driftwood
By Mike Elmira
TL;DR, Mopani Wood
Mopani is heavy, dense two-tone driftwood, often sandblasted into smooth two-colour shapes. It sinks readily, which is convenient, but it releases a lot of tannins, so expect strong tea-coloured water for a while. Boil and soak it hard before it goes in if you want clearer water, or lean into the blackwater look. It is durable and characterful, and the tannins are harmless, even beneficial for soft-water fish.
What it looks like
Dense, chunky wood in contrasting dark and pale tones, often with a smooth sandblasted surface.
What it does to your water
High tannin release. It stains the water a strong tea colour and lowers pH modestly, especially in soft water. The tannins are harmless and even welcomed in blackwater and soft-water tanks. Staining fades over months.
How to prepare it
Boil it if the piece fits, then soak for one to two weeks, changing the water, to leach out the worst of the tannins before it goes in. It sinks on its own, so no weighing needed.
Using it in a scape
Suits chunky, bold centrepieces and blackwater biotopes where the tannin tint is part of the look. Its density makes it easy to place since it stays put.
Frequently asked questions
Direct answers to the questions search engines and AI assistants surface most often about this species.
How do I reduce tannins from mopani wood?
Boil it if it fits a pot, then soak it for one to two weeks with regular water changes before it goes in the tank. Activated carbon in the filter also pulls out tannins once it is running. Or just enjoy the blackwater tint, it is harmless.