can shells be in a tropical fish tank?

[kevin007]

I have got my eyes on these beautiful shells but the problem is that i heard that if i put them in my tank, it might carry paricites and it raises the hardness of the water or something is that true? and can i have shells in my tank

Kev B)

 

[juliethegr8t]

From what I've heard, you shouldn't put seashells in a fresh water tank, because they give off minerals like calcium. I don't know if this is the case for stuff you'd buy at stores, that are labeled for fish tank use - cuz that seems like it would be fine, but if they're just off the beach I don't think I'd recommend it. Which is sad cuz I have some way cool shells I'd put in mine!

 

[dolphin]

Hi Kevin

You can put shells in your tank. Boil them first, if there are from outdoors. They will raise your hardness, and pH , but only by a small amount. You should not have a problem if you keep testing the water.

HTH

 

[kevin007]

yea cause i saw these small shells in the lfs it was like $1 for 2 or something okay, thanks

 

[impur]

If you find that it does raise your ph to far, you can always coat them in an aquarium safe resin. Just an idea for ya.

 

[clueless]

HI didn,t know you are not supposed to have shells in your tank and have had shells in mine since the tank was new about 6 months now they dont seem to have caused any trouble in my tank and the fish love scrabbling around them.