Mineral Junkie Pearls
GlasGarten Mineral Junkie Pearls are a unique mineral supplement designed for shrimp to actively consume. Unlike traditional remineralizers that dissolve in water, these small pearls provide slow-rele
Product Overview
GlasGarten Mineral Junkie Pearls are a unique mineral supplement designed for shrimp to actively consume. Unlike traditional remineralizers that dissolve in water, these small pearls provide slow-release minerals that shrimp eat directly, supporting healthy molting and providing enrichment. The formula includes montmorillonite clay and spirulina alongside essential minerals. While not a replacement for proper remineralization, they're an excellent addition to any shrimp keeper's routine.
Detailed Review
GlasGarten's Mineral Junkie Pearls represent a different approach to mineral supplementation. Rather than dissolving in water to raise GH, these pearls are designed for shrimp to consume directly, providing minerals through their diet as a supplement to water-based remineralization. The pearls dissolve slowly over 24-48 hours, during which shrimp will actively graze on them. This provides both nutritional benefits and behavioral enrichment - shrimp seem to genuinely enjoy eating them, and watching a group of shrimp gather around a pearl is entertaining. The formula includes montmorillonite clay, which is believed to aid digestion and mineral absorption. Spirulina provides additional nutrition. The combination supports healthy molting and overall shrimp vitality. However, it's important to understand what this product is NOT: it's not a primary remineralizer. You still need to use a proper GH+ or GH/KH+ product to prepare your RO water. Think of Mineral Junkie as a beneficial supplement that complements your existing water preparation routine. For the price, you're paying for the unique slow-release formula and the enrichment value. Whether that's worth it depends on your priorities - but many dedicated shrimp keepers consider it a worthwhile addition to their routine.
Dosing Guide
Manufacturer Recommendation
Add 1-2 pearls per 10 shrimp, 2-3 times per week. Pearls dissolve slowly over 24-48 hours, providing continuous mineral supplementation.
Community Consensus
Best used as a supplement alongside a primary remineralizer, not as a replacement. The slow-release minerals support molting and provide enrichment. Many keepers use 2-3 pearls per 10 gallons, 2-3 times weekly.
Quick Dosing Reference
Approximate amounts for Mineral Junkie Pearls starting from 0 TDS RO water
| Target GH | Grams per Gallon | Grams per Liter |
|---|---|---|
| 0 dGH | 0.10g | 0.03g |
| 0 dGH | 0.15g | 0.04g |
| 0 dGH | 0.20g | 0.05g |
| 0 dGH | 0.25g | 0.07g |
Important Notes
- Always test your water after mixing and before adding to your tank
- TDS readings can vary based on your TDS meter calibration
- Dose to your target GH, not TDS, for best results
- Let water sit 10-15 minutes after mixing for accurate readings
Community Feedback
Community Consensus
Unique mineral supplement that shrimp actively consume. Best used as an addition to regular remineralization rather than a replacement. Shrimp love them and the slow-release minerals help support healthy molting. The montmorillonite clay provides additional benefits for digestion and mineral absorption.
What Users Love
- Shrimp actively eat and love them
- Provides enrichment and mineral supplementation
- Slow-release design is gentle on parameters
- Contains beneficial montmorillonite clay
- German quality from GlasGarten
- Great for molting support
Common Concerns
- Not a replacement for proper remineralization
- Can be expensive as a supplement
- May cloud water slightly as they dissolve
- Difficult to measure exact mineral contribution
Notable Discussions
- Mineral Junkie as molting supplement discussions
- GlasGarten product line reviews
- Supplemental feeding best practices
Feedback aggregated from Reddit (r/shrimptank, r/Aquariums), The Planted Tank Forum, and other aquarium communities. Individual experiences may vary.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Shrimp actively consume them (enrichment value)
- Slow-release minerals are gentle on parameters
- Contains beneficial montmorillonite clay
- Supports healthy molting
- Can be used for both Caridina and Neocaridina
- High-quality German manufacturing
Cons
- Not a primary remineralizer - supplemental use only
- More expensive than powder remineralizers
- Dissolving pearls can cloud water temporarily
- Exact mineral contribution hard to quantify
Frequently Asked Questions
No, Mineral Junkie Pearls are a supplement, not a replacement for proper remineralization. You still need to use a GH+ or GH/KH+ product to prepare your RO water. Use Mineral Junkie in addition to, not instead of, your regular remineralizer.
GlasGarten recommends 1-2 pearls per 10 shrimp, added 2-3 times per week. For a typical 10-gallon tank with 20-30 shrimp, 2-3 pearls 2-3 times weekly is a good starting point.
The effect on GH is minimal and slow. These pearls are designed to provide minerals through consumption rather than dissolving into the water column. Any GH increase would be very gradual and minor.
Yes, Mineral Junkie Pearls are safe for both Caridina and Neocaridina shrimp. The mineral composition is beneficial for all freshwater dwarf shrimp species.
There may be slight temporary cloudiness as the pearls dissolve, but it typically clears within a few hours. Good filtration helps minimize any cloudiness.
Montmorillonite clay is a natural mineral clay believed to aid shrimp digestion and mineral absorption. It's commonly used in shrimp foods and supplements for its potential health benefits.
Alternative Products
Bee Shrimp Mineral GH+
Serious Caridina breeders who want the most reliable, consistent remineralizer for Crystal Red, Taiwan Bee, and other sensitive Caridina species.
White Mineral Powder
Budget-conscious hobbyists looking for general mineral supplementation, especially those already using Tantora botanicals in their tanks.
Shrimp King Mineral
Shrimp keepers looking for a convenient, long-lasting mineral supplement to complement their existing remineralization routine.
Track Your Remineralization with ShrimpKeeper
Use our built-in calculator to dose Mineral Junkie Pearls perfectly every time. Track your parameters and see trends over time.
Quick Specs
Yields per Gram
Target Ranges
Available Sizes
Best For
Shrimp keepers looking to supplement their existing remineralization routine with an enrichment product that shrimp actively consume and enjoy.