Finally back after a decades long absence.

Longislandguy · Apr 1, 2020

Figured with so much stress and anxiety in the world, what better time to get back into the hobby I so loved. Decided I try an “amazoneque” type of display.

while at Home Depot I noticed these white birch logs that are used for displays in people’s fireplaces. Thought it would look amazing to make it a central theme to the display.

so the wood has been kiln dried And us currently soaking in water.
two questions

is there a way to seal the wood in order to not lose the white texture if the bark without harming the fish?

lastly how do you recommend keeping the logs in place and not float?

thanks. Timmy

JuiceBox52 · Apr 1, 2020

@Retired Viking @Byron @Deanasue @Colin_T

Retired Viking · Apr 1, 2020

I have some birch drift wood I was thinking of trying but not with the bark on. I have several birch trees and the bark peels off. There are waterproof sealers but I am not sure if they are fish safe.

Retired Viking · Apr 1, 2020

Hello and welcome to the forum

FishGuest5123 · Apr 1, 2020

Welcome! Glad to have you here. I don’t know much about birch but it does rot easily. @Byron can probably help.

Byron · Apr 1, 2020

There are two things here. First, the birch fireplace logs I assume are artificial, not real wood--I have fake "logs" in my gas fireplace that are concrete (or something). Second, actual birch wood.

I have always read that one should never use decor not specifically intended for an aquarium, so I cannot say anything about the fireplace "logs," other than, be careful.

As for real birch wood, I would have to dig around on this to be certain. It is a hard wood, and hard woods (non-fruit) tend to be safe, but the white bark does peel and I've no idea if this can cause issues for fish.

JuiceBox52 · Apr 1, 2020

@Byron they look real to me

Retired Viking · Apr 1, 2020

JuiceBox52 said:
@Byron they look real to me

yes, that is real birch, it is peeling. I really like birch there is a birch forest not far from here but there is going to be a problem for you. Even if you are able to seal the outside bark the bark underneath may peel.

Longislandguy · Apr 2, 2020

Hey all. Thanks for all the feedback. They are indeed real and were kiln dried. After contemplating, I decided against using the birch logs. Main reason being is that they are about 3”-4” in diameter and I think they would over power a display of a 50 gal high. If they were half the diameter, I’d try and make it work.

So keeping with the tree theme, I decided on going in a different direction. cringe worthy to some and the newest trend.... I know and I’m sorry. I’m a certified arborist and obviously love trees. Ive been keeping bonsais for over a decade. So yes I decided to make some bonsais for the display. I’m making them from scratch, with idea of a windswept look. It will be elevated, as if on a cliff, and have that windswept look you see of trees living in those conditions.

just did some shopping today and made the first step. Using Manzanita attached to a piece of dragon rock. I’ll post progress pics if anyone is interested. Also I plan on doing a diary of the build as well.

thanks look forward to everyone input and help.be safe out there. Stay home and play with your fish.
best. T

JuiceBox52 · Apr 2, 2020

Longislandguy said:
Hey all. Thanks for all the feedback. They are indeed real and were kiln dried. After contemplating, I decided against using the birch logs. Main reason being is that they are about 3”-4” in diameter and I think they would over power a display of a 50 gal high. If they were half the diameter, I’d try and make it work.

So keeping with the tree theme, I decided on going in a different direction. cringe worthy to some and the newest trend.... I know and I’m sorry. I’m a certified arborist and obviously love trees. Ive been keeping bonsais for over a decade. So yes I decided to make some bonsais for the display. I’m making them from scratch, with idea of a windswept look. It will be elevated, as if on a cliff, and have that windswept look you see of trees living in those conditions.

just did some shopping today and made the first step. Using Manzanita attached to a piece of dragon rock. I’ll post progress pics if anyone is interested. Also I plan on doing a diary of the build as well.

thanks look forward to everyone input and help.be safe out there. Stay home and play with your fish.
best. T

This sounds like it will look amazing. Keep us posted!

Retired Viking · Apr 2, 2020

Sound like it is an interesting display, I am working on an sunken forest theme 30 gallon tall tank with stumps. Good luck

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