Where to get centerpieces for Nano tanks? (online)

[dormreefer]

I'm getting ready to set up a nano planted tank (Eheim Aquastyle 4G thanks to the Marinedepot sale ) after having the salt bug for a few years. However, I've been finding it difficult to source nice rocks or wood to use as a centerpiece locally. Does anyone know any good sites to find them?

Thanks!
-Alex

[amphirion]

in my opinion, locally is the best way to go, only because you can actually see what you are getting, know how big it is, and see all sides of it, so you can plan your scape accordingly. i rarely purchase centerpieces, driftwood or otherwise, online unless i know exactly what i am going to get. often, that also includes an increased price hike, but for me the pricetag is sometimes worth it because its exactly what i want.

that being said, the forums here is a pretty decent place to locate hardscaping equipment. people post pics of the driftwood and rocks they have for sale, and at reasonable price. just last week i saw a post in the trading/sale section offering seiryu stone and manzanita... you might want to start your search there...

[bluestems]

+1 on what amphirion said.

You can also purchase online at Aquarium Design Group (a TPT sponsor) or Aqua Forest Aquarium. But, your best deal will be through the TPT member sales.

You might also check to see if you have a local planted aquarium hobbyist group that might have a local sales board. And once in a blue moon, it's possible to find these items on craigslist. But, most people who have these kinds of high end stone don't usually sell on CL.

[@marko@]

if there is nothing local, go with Frank from ADG. he is a member here and has great stuff.

[dormreefer]

The issue I keep running into down here in Central Florida is just about all the fish stores are Saltwater specialty. Other than the big chains which are pretty useless in terms of selection.

I am very fond of slate, I assume slate tiles won't be an issue to water parameters as long as they are clean? But then again you know what they say about assuming haha

[laqu]

it's hard... i bought on line and the stuff was too big... hard to to...

[ownedbycats]

If you just want slate, no special expensive stones, try a local landscaping store. They will likely have it far cheaper than a dedicated aquarium store. You may even be able to find broken tiles in interesting shapes and sizes.
As far as i know, slate is inert and won't change your water chemistry in any way. This is why it is frequently attached to driftwood to make it sink.

[beginragnarok]

I have gotten several types of stone locally from an aggregate company.

Step one - Go into office. Not a phone call.
Step two - Politely inquire about small purchases and mention what you are using it for.
Step three - Likely pay $0-$10 depending on amount.
Step four - Choose what you fancy and collect it.
Step five - Profit....

Most people when they learn what you are planning to use this stuff for will gladly help you (some want to see pictures when you mention live planted tanks so bring that camera phone). Most of what you want will be sold by the ton. So you will likely be paying $5 or nothing at all for a "sample".

-Zach

[tsonnenl]

I found a nice piece on here for my bowl a few months ago.

http://www.bobstropicalplants.com/shop/en/13-nano-trees