Why is my water brown?

[bettafishlover86]

Is my water in my aquarium brown from tannins, possibly coming from the spider wood? Or is it something else? I did a water change two weeks ago.

 

[PlasticGalaxy]

Yep, tannins from the wood in the tank. It's more noticeable in smaller tanks like yours, but tannin leeching happens regardless. The tannins lower pH and help to soften water, and can benefit fish that prefer these conditions (like bettas).

Water changes will help get rid of this discolouration if it's not what you're after. However, I do suggest looking into blackwater tanks. They're very interesting, and prove to have quite a few benefits for fishkeepers (and their fish) depending on what they fancy in an aquarium.

Hope this is helpful!

 

[bettafishlover86]

Yep, tannins from the wood in the tank. It's more noticeable in smaller tanks like yours, but tannin leeching happens regardless. The tannins lower pH and help to soften water, and can benefit fish that prefer these conditions (like bettas).

Water changes will help get rid of this discolouration if it's not what you're after. However, I do suggest looking into blackwater tanks. They're very interesting, and prove to have quite a few benefits for fishkeepers (and their fish) depending on what they fancy in an aquarium.

Hope this is helpful!

Thanks a lot, my tank may look a little smaller in the picture but it is 29 us gallons. I have heard of black water tanks, so I might let the color stay.

 

[Deleted member 149562]

If you decide not to keep the colour, change the water weekly and it will soon fade....or for a quick removal, use something like Purigen in your filter and it will be gone in around 72 hours