Rainbow slate - safe to use?

Jon Bennett · Apr 20, 2018

Hi all,

I bought this 'Rainbow slate' off the internet from an aquatics online store. Having looked at it, I'm a little concerned whether it is safe or not to put in my tank any advice would be highly appreciated thanks.

Please see attached photos

Jon

mikey11 · Apr 20, 2018

safe in what way?

it could affect the PH a bit, but other then that nothing really,

soak the rocks in a big bucket of water for a few days before putting them in your tank....no soap or chemicals....just water

Jon Bennett · Apr 20, 2018

Thanks.

I know some rock can alter the chemistry of the water, I was just a bit worried that this would, and end up killing any fish I put in the aquarium

Colin_T · Apr 20, 2018

It looks fine, slate doesn't normally release anything into the water and won't change the water chemistry. White rocks like limestone and sand stone are calcium based and will raise the pH but slate won't.

The only issue with slate is it can have sharp edges so check them before putting in the tank. I used to smooth the edges off with a grinder if it was really sharp.

Just rinse the rocks off well before using to remove any dirt and dust.

Jon Bennett · Apr 20, 2018

Thanks. I rinsed them with a hose and scrubbed them with a stiff bristled brush, and now got them sat in a bucket of dechlorinated water.

Jon Bennett · Apr 21, 2018

They're in!!

Chief Brody · Apr 22, 2018

See what happens if you pour vinegar on it

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Ch4rlie · Apr 23, 2018

If the rock is soft, bits flake of or crumbles when rub with fingers or stiff brush then it’s too soft for aquarium, basically will affect the ph chemistry of tank water over time.

As ChiefBrody mentioned, you can do a simple vinegar test, simply add a few drops of vinegar on dry clean part of rock, if any reactions at all i.e fizzing or bubbling then the rock is not safe for aquarium use.

This is a very basic check really but helps as a basic guide if rock is ok to use.

You can use stronger acids if you want to be more certain but goes without saying to be very careful if using other acids such as muratic acid as it’s dangerous stuff but as a test it would undoubtedly prove if rock is safe for aquaria use.

NickAu · Apr 23, 2018

Rainbow slate is inert,

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