Rocks for decoration

[MDS99]

I’ve been looking for some aquariums rocks at the lfs, however I live next to a freshwater stream could I use any rocks/pebbles from there or not really ?

 

[Colin_T]

I would if there were fish and shrimp in the stream. They would indicate the water is pretty clean and hasn't been poisoned, so the rocks should be safe. Just hose them off and leave in the sun for a few days, then add them to the tank.

Maybe put some more rocks in the creek to make up for the ones you remove.

 

[MDS99]

I would if there were fish and shrimp in the stream. They would indicate the water is pretty clean and hasn't been poisoned, so the rocks should be safe. Just hose them off and leave in the sun for a few days, then add them to the tank.

Maybe put some more rocks in the creek to make up for the ones you remove.

Great thanks Colin, and I believe there are rainbow trout in the stream, and will only be taking 1-2 small rocks, and avoid disturbing any wildlife or habitats.

Also I’ve seen that some people boil rocks after they buy them ? Should I be doing this or is it not necessary ?

 

[Colin_T]

I know people boil boots to eat when hungry but I don't see much point in boiling rocks, not even for aquarium purposes. It you want to put them in hot water and bring it to the boil, you can. It only has to boil for a few seconds and virtually everything dies at 60C, so 100C (boiling temp of water) is heaps.

If they dry out then nothing that lives in water will survive that with the exception of fish TB. That can survive drying but if it's in hot sun like we have in WA now, it only lasts a few minutes. But cooler climates could take longer.

 

[MDS99]

Okay I may just to be safe, it’s currently around 7C° in uk during day and around 2C° at night so definitely not as warm as WA thanks for your help Colin

 

[Colin_T]

LOL, 7 degrees C. That's a bit colder than here

Yeah boil them up for a minute, then let them cool and rinse them off again, they will be fine.