real leave in tank?

[akhtar]

whats everyone on about leaves in their tanks??!

can anyone help, and oh can someone show me a pic?

 

[CFC]

Leaves in a tank replicate the leaf litter zone of tropical fish habbitats (mainly jungle pools and streams). Many species of dwarf cichlids dwell in this enviroment as well as some catfish and characin species. The leaves help to acidify the water and create hiding places for bottom dwelling fish (ie banjo catfish). The best leaves to use are beach or oak leaves though i believe the leaves from any deciduous hardwood tree are suitable. Collect the fallen leaves in autum (fall) and dry them out to be stored, when needed boil the leaves until they sink. The leaves in the tank will need to be replaced when they look a bit rotted.

 

[Cian McLiam]

Hi,
I use beech tree leaves in my tank, you can see them by clicking HERE all the fish seem to be happy with them, the corys love picking food from under them and are much more active around the centre of the tank, the apistos also love using them for cover. They also help darken the bottom of the tank so the tetras feel more secure.
The tannins and the slow decomposition make the water more 'estuarine' and natural compared with raw tap water.
I would recommend beesch, I've never used oak so I cant tell you much about them but im quite sure they are fine!!

Ken

 

[lizard]

I use Oak leaves...they work fine. I have been told not to use Maple leaves, but I'm not sure of the reasoning.

http/www.apistogramma.com/forum/viewtopi...ght=leaf+litter

Pamela
aka Lizard