A Couple of Questions

463 Views 4 Replies 3 Participants Last post by lauraleellbp, Sep 17, 2010

Shana

Discussion Starter · Sep 17, 2010

I have a few questions that I can't find answers for by searching the forum. I think the info must be on here somewhere, I just can't find it. First, I know that you can use mopani wood in aquariums, but I read that you cannot use mopani that has been "prepared for reptile use." What's the difference? The mopani wood I've seen for sale for aquariums looks identical to the wood they sell for terrariums. How can you tell them apart, and why should you?
Second question: I have a new Ehiem 2217 filter that I am going to be setting up this weekend. I'm experimenting with DIY CO2, using two bottles with a wooden airstone for a 30 gallon tank. My pH has definitely dropped, but not enough. I've read that you can set up the CO2 to somehow connect to your canister filter to make it more efficient, but I can't find simple clear instructions for a complete newbie (I've never used a canister filter at all). And, just in case it's relevant, I'm testing my water with an API test kit (the drops, not the strips) and I have a drop checker on it's way from Hong Kong. Oh, and I really cannot begin to afford a pressurized CO2 setup, not after buying new lights and a new filter. I've got to work with the DIY set up for now.

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lauraleellbp

· #2 · Sep 17, 2010

For the first question, reptile wood has often been treated with antibiotics and antifungals that could cause problems for fish and inverts.

For the 2nd question, IDK so you'll have to wait for someone to come along who's done that and can help ya. :biggrin:

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Crispino L Ramos

· #3 · Sep 17, 2010

place the co2 under the intake strainer

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Shana

Discussion Starter · #4 · Sep 17, 2010

Will boiling the wood remove the chemicals? And I understand putting the CO2 under the intake, but I have an Eheim filter with about five layers of filter media. Is there going to be any CO2 left by the time the water moves through all all of that stuff?

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lauraleellbp

· #5 · Sep 17, 2010

I'm not sure about boiling but I have my doubts. I wouldn't use it if it's been treated, personally.

And you won't lose CO2 in a canister filter- the only place you're going to loose CO2 in an aquarium with a canister filter is across the surface of the tank. As long as you keep your filter output aimed so it's not actually splashing/breaking the surface of the water you'll minimize your CO2 loss.

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