Using Slate In Aquarium

[julielynn47]

I am considering using slate in my  75 gallon tank.  I am wondering if there are any special precautions that I should take.  I know a place that stocks slate to build with. All different sizes.   I also can go to mountains and dig it out myself. I know where some is located.
 
How would I go about cleaning it before putting it in the tank? Just rinse it off really good or boil it or what?  Any suggestions?   
 

I also can go to mountains and dig it out myself. I know where some is located.

 

[Fishmanic]

I used flagstone to make a few caves and boiled it to be safe after I brushed off any dirt/debris. Probably best for you to do the same.

 

[DoubleDutch]

No problem or what so ever. Only take care of sharp edges

 

[nic1]

I did this, my brother gave me a massive bit of slate and I boiled it and placed it in my tank.... He then told me that he found it in the ground a few months later but nothing died or went funny, 3 years later its still in there

 

[eaglesaquarium]

Generally speaking... do NOT boil rocks.  Add rocks to boiling water, but do not boil it in the pot.  Water in the rock can boil, expanding the gas causing it to explode.  

 

[fluttermoth]

Another thing to watch for with slate, is that it can contain metallic veins, which can be toxic in fish tanks. Avoid any pieces that have crystals in, scrub them with really, really hot water, let them dry out completely and you'll be fine to use it

 

[julielynn47]

Thanks everyone!!  I definitely want slate, or rocks or some such thing.  Whichever ends up being the easiest to find I guess is what I will use.

 

[fluttermoth]

You do need to know what kind of rocks they are before you put them in your tank.
 
Slate is safe, but some rocks can affect the pH and hardness of your water.