has anyone heard of adding epson salt to a fish tank?

Question

My friend told me that this helps keep the water clean. I this true? By the way I have fresh water fish so does she.

Answer 1

Epsom salt (MgSO4) won't do much for keeping your tank clean, but as others have said, it can be used to relieve constipation and bloating. Aquarium salt (NaCl) will relieve nitrite poisoning, but this is by action of the chlorine ion only (Cl-) ,and a salt bath or dip is often used to protect fish from parasites. Some fish are sensitive to any type of salt in their tanks, so it should be used with care. If you use aquarium salt, you can put in 1 tablespoon per 5 gallons of water for most fish without a problem. If you're using Epsom salt, you need to use a much lower dose, around 1/8 teaspoon per 5 gallons.

Here's a link to more info about using salt in a freshwater tank (both the facts and the myths): http://www.skepticalaquarist.com/docs/health/salt.shtml

Answer 2

A small amount of salt, yes even in fresh water tanks, is good for your fish. It helps stimulate the production of slime that fish need. Just don't over-do it. You can buy water treatments that are made for freshwater tanks that already have what is needed in them. If you are using some of that conditioner, then you may not want to ad salt on top of that.

Answer 3

We used to add salt to our freshwater tanks. It is true. We used a salt we bought from the fish store, but a small amount was recommended for the fresh water tanks we had.

Answer 4

As long as the Salt ingredients include: Sodium chloride and thats about it. This is a good general rule to follow. Keep in mind, the amount of iodine in the salt is not enough to endanger the fish. Just make sure the amount of salt does not get over 0.3% (3 ppt) or 3 pounds per 100 gallons of water. Good luck.

Answer 5

Epson salt may make your fish swim upside down, like the ones in PetSmart that are marked down %99!!!
Try Aquarium Salt, it comes in the 'Milk Carton' looking box. It reduces stress, adds electrolytes, and improves Gill function. Your fish may very well stop swimming and Applaud as you do. Its cheap and good 4 them. I add some everytime I clean or add water.

Answer 6

I have heard of using epsom salt as a laxative for constipated bettas and other tropical fish.

Answer 7

yes I have,
dont know about keeping the water clean but it does add things to it that helps,
also another thing if you have very soft water like I have it helps harden the water a good thing for my platies and guppies

Answer 8

Purchase salt that is safe for freshwater aquariums. It helps prevent and treat deceases and parasites.

Answer 9

Yes i use it in my saltwater tank, i works REALLY good! But i dont know why you need it for a freshwater tank. if you have a saltwater tank i would recomend it! :)

Answer 10

Check out
http://www.fishjunkies.com/Treatments/salt.php