Rock for Cichlid tank

[Mollybreeder]

I just went out behind my house to gather some rocks for my new cichlid tank and i have scrubbed them down and now im boiling them. The problem is the rocks have lichen all over them and i cant get it completely off...will this be a problem for the tank? I was thinking about soaking them in some bleach and water...what do you think?


thanks jeremy

EDIT: this rock is sandstone...forgot to mention it

 

[Mollybreeder]

anyone know this

 

[Soaup]

I dont know anything about this, but bleach doesnt sound like a good idea when it comes to that. Go to your pet store or a home depot and you can buy some rocks for the tank or you can buy some slate and build your own caves on that decision.

 

[colen]

Hey,

Check out this pinned topic by The Wolf.

http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?showtopic=55806

It covers various rocks and lets you know what is and isn't safe for in your tank.

"

Sandstone. Not recommended
Water-worn pebbles of varying sizes can give a very natural look to an aquarium. Sandstone is mostly safe to use for all tanks after the standard cleaning protocols; however it is a sedimentary rock made from small grains of quartz and feldspar.
Note; due to the feldspar, (which can contain potassium, sodium or calcium) it may be harmful.

"

Sounds like for the most part it should be safe to use, but that there might be a bit of a risk if it contains feldspar. You'll have to do a little reading as I am no rock expert myself.