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NilocG ThriveCaps Root Tabs (60-count)

Complete root tabs at a value price: slow-release nitrogen phosphorus potassium plus micros, shrimp safe. A cheaper, EI-style alternative to Seachem's tabs for heavy root feeders.

NilocG ThriveCaps Root Tabs (60-count)
82/ 100 T&T score
Ranked 3rd of 6 plant fertilisers
Owner rating4.3★ (1,665)
Best price today$17.85
Tierbudget
Affiliate link · never affects rank
Score breakdown
Nutrient Completeness95
Dosing Control83
Algae Risk92
Owner Satisfaction63
Value85
What we like
  • +Complete formula root caps — slow-release macro and micro nutrients including nitrogen phosphorus potassium
  • +Includes chelated iron and trace elements for strong root growth
  • +Easy dosing — push a cap into the substrate; 60 caps last a big tank a long time
  • +Shrimp safe and gentle, with no algae bloom because it stays in the substrate
Watch out for
  • −Lower-profile brand than Seachem, and a slightly lower owner rating
  • −Feeds roots only — add a liquid for water-column feeders
Specifications
NPKComplete (N-P-K)
MicronutrientsTrace + chelated iron
Iron ContentChelated iron
FormulationSlow-release root cap
Dose Rate1 cap per ~10 gal
DispenserInsert by hand
FrequencyEvery 1-2 months
PhosphateIncluded
Invertebrate SafeYes (shrimp & snails)
The exact product

These are NilocG ThriveCaps, complete slow-release root tabs at a value price, 60 to a pack. They supply N-P-K plus chelated iron and trace elements to heavy root feeders and are shrimp safe, an EI-style alternative to Seachem's tabs.

Best for
  • Heavy root feeders on a budget
  • Larger planted tanks where 60 caps go a long way
  • Shrimp tanks needing root feeding
Not for
  • Water-column plants, which need a liquid
  • Tanks on rich aquasoil
  • Buyers who want the longest brand track record, where Seachem leads
What we can and can't verify

We separate what the maker claims from what independent sources confirm, what owners report, and where we are drawing an inference. We do not bench-test products.

The manufacturer states
  • Complete N-P-K with chelated iron and trace
  • Slow-release cap, one per roughly 10 gallons every 1 to 2 months
  • Shrimp and snail safe
Independently verifiable
  • Feeds roots only; stays in the substrate
  • 60 caps suit a large tank for a long time
Owners consistently report
  • Well rated, a slightly lower profile brand than Seachem
Our reading of the evidence
  • The value pick for root feeding: nearly the same job as Seachem's tabs at a lower cost per cap
What it costs to own

60 caps is a lot of dosing at one cap per 10 gallons every month or two, so cost per year is low. Pair with a liquid for water-column feeders.

How it fails, and what to watch
  • Feeding only roots and neglecting stems and floaters
  • Disturbing a cap and releasing nutrients into the water
  • Over-dosing a small tank with too many caps
Limits of this review

We do not bench-test this; the assessment synthesises the manufacturer's stated specification and aggregated owner feedback. We give gear and method guidance only. For a fish's specific health or diet needs, consult a veterinarian or an established authority.

Common questions
How many caps per tank?

About one cap per 10 gallons near root feeders, replaced every one to two months.

Are they as good as Seachem tabs?

They do the same job at a lower price. Seachem has a longer track record and a slightly higher owner rating.

Shrimp safe?

Yes, they are formulated to be safe for shrimp and snails.